India stands as one of the largest consumers and importers of lentils in the world. Despite being a key producer of pulses, India’s appetite for lentils exceeds domestic production, making it a prime destination for global suppliers looking to tap into a high-demand, high-volume market.

Why India Is a Top Buyer of Lentils?

India imports over 1.6 million metric tons of lentils annually, mainly due to population growth, dietary demand for protein-rich legumes, and seasonal production gaps. Lentils are a staple food in most Indian households and used widely in:

•    Dal (split lentil curry)

•    Soup and stews

•    Snack food manufacturing

•    Ready-to-eat packaged meals

Types of Lentils in High Demand in India

Buyers and suppliers looking to enter the Indian market should be aware of the top imported lentil varieties, such as:

•    Red Lentils (Masoor Dal) – whole or split

•    Green Lentils

•    Brown Lentils

•    Yellow Split Peas (used similarly to lentils)

India imports these mainly from Canada, Australia, Russia, Turkey, and Kazakhstan, but Iranian and Ethiopian lentils are also gaining attention for their price competitiveness and organic quality.

2025 Wholesale Price of Bulk Lentils in India

Lentil Type           Origin             Avg. Wholesale Price (USD/ton)    

Red Lentils              Canada     $1,600 – $2,100  

Brown Lentils          Turkey      $1,500 – $2,000 

Green Lentils           Russia      $1,700 – $1,900  

Yellow Split            Australia     $1,500 – $1,800 

Note: Prices vary based on port destination (Nhava Sheva, Mundra, Kolkata), quality grade (Machine Cleaned, Sortexed), packaging, and payment terms.

Top Cities for Bulk Lentils Distribution in India:

If you’re planning to import lentils into India, consider strategic distribution through these key hubs:

•    Mumbai (Nhava Sheva Port) – Western India Gateway

•    Mundra Port – Gujarat’s Efficient Entry Point

•    Kolkata – East India Hub, esp. for Bangladesh Border Trade

•    Delhi/NCR – Massive consumption zone

•    Hyderabad, Chennai, Bangalore – Southern legume markets

How to Import Lentils to India? Step-by-Step (2025)

India's import procedures are moderately strict but accessible with the right documents. Here's a concise checklist:

Documents Required:

•    IEC (Import Export Code) – Register via DGFT

•    FSSAI License (Food Safety)

•    Phytosanitary Certificate from exporting country

•    Certificate of Origin

•    Bill of Lading & Commercial Invoice

•    Packing List

•    Import Duty Payment

Customs & Regulatory Insights:

•    HS Code: 07134000 (Lentils, dried & shelled)

•    GST: ~5%

•    Import Duty: 0–10% depending on trade agreements

•    BIS Certification: Not required for lentils

•    Import allowed freely but may be restricted by quotas or policy (especially in years of surplus)

Where to Find Reliable Bulk Lentil Suppliers?

Top Supplier Countries Targeting Indian Market:

•    Canada: Largest exporter with established port logistics

•    Turkey: Competitive in price & proximity

•    Russia/Kazakhstan: Emerging suppliers with growing capacity

•    Iran: Close, affordable, and ideal for organic or special market segments

Platform Suggestions:

•    Eworldtrade, Alibaba, Tradewheel – B2B global platforms

•    Indian Agents at ports like Mundra or Nhava Sheva

•    Direct sourcing via exhibitions like IndusFood or AgroWorld Expo

Bonus Tip: Is 2025 a Good Time to Export Lentils to India?

Yes — India's 2025 projections show rising domestic prices, increased consumption, and fluctuating local yields. This opens a perfect import window for quality suppliers from Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

Conclusion

India continues to be a goldmine for bulk lentil exporters, offering volume-based profits and long-term trade potential. Whether you're a seasoned supplier from Canada or a new exporter from Iran or Turkey, India’s lentil market in 2025 is a space worth entering — as long as you follow the rules, stay competitive in pricing, and partner with experienced agents.

Email:  tamilaagrifood@gmail.com

WhatsApp:  +989141858935