On November 19, 2024, a consignment of 31,240 tons of Australian gram (chickpeas) arrived at Mundra Port in Gujarat, India, on the ship "Taocas Wisdom." This batch was ordered by various importers across India, with specific quantities ranging from 2,100 tons to 5,000 tons, according to reports.

The detailed breakdown of the shipment includes imports of 4,200 tons, 2,100 tons, 2,100 tons, 1,050 tons, 5,000 tons, 1,000 tons, 950 tons, 1,050 tons, 1,050 tons, 980 tons, and another 1,050 tons, adding up to the total of 31,240 tons.

The influx of Australian gram comes as Australia experiences a strong harvest, suggesting that the exportable stock of gram will increase significantly.

In India, the market price for Desi gram (domestic chickpeas) is currently higher than the government’s minimum support price (MSP), leading to a liberal import policy. As a result, gram imports are expected to rise, with the expectation of a potential softening of gram prices due to the robust arrivals from Australia.

However, if the demand from major importing countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka remains strong, prices may not drop significantly.

The Indian government has raised the MSP for gram for the 2024-25 season to ₹5,650 per quintal, a significant increase from the previous season's ₹2,440 per quintal.

However, the wholesale market price is still around or above ₹7,000 per quintal, suggesting that the domestic market prices remain strong.

Additionally, there is a vigorous sowing season for gram in India, with an increased area under cultivation, as farmers show heightened interest in growing the crop due to the favorable market conditions.