India's Chickpea Export Policy Shift: What It Means for Buyers
India's updated pulse export policy for FY2025-26 has significantly improved the outlook for kabuli chickpea importers. After two years of floor prices and quota restrictions, the government has removed quantity limits on kabuli chickpeas while retaining a floor price on desi chana (to protect domestic supply). This policy distinction matters enormously: kabuli chickpeas (42/44, 44/46 count) — the variety used in hummus, canning, and EU food processing — are now freely exportable at market-determined prices. Desi chana remains more restricted and is subject to policy changes with little notice.
Indian vs Australian Kabuli: A Price Comparison
Australia is India's main competitor in global kabuli chickpea exports. In most years, Australian chickpeas command a slight quality premium due to more uniform sizing and lower broken percentage. However, in 2025-26, Indian kabuli from MP is closing this gap. Indian 42/44 kabuli is currently available at approximately 15–18% below Australian CIF prices to Middle Eastern ports and 12–15% below Australian CIF to EU ports. Protein content (21–23% for Indian Nagori/Kabuli) is comparable to Australian origin. For price-sensitive hummus manufacturers and canning operations, Indian kabuli now offers a compelling value proposition.
For hummus manufacturing, specify: moisture ≤12%, protein ≥21% (dry basis), broken ≤0.5%, foreign matter ≤0.1%, count 42/44 or 44/46 per ounce (28g). For canning applications, add hydration ratio specification (minimum 1:1.8 weight after soaking 12 hours). Radiance Overseas pre-tests every kabuli lot for hydration ratio on request.
Procurement Calendar and Available Stock
Kabuli chickpea harvest in Rajasthan and MP concludes in March–April. Best procurement window is April–July when new crop is available in bulk and prices reflect post-harvest softness. From August onwards, carry-over stock prices typically rise 5–8% as domestic demand absorbs supply. For buyers running long-term contracts (12-month rolling), we recommend locking the base price during April–June and scheduling quarterly shipments through March of the following year.