Australia Pulses Market Update: Dryness in north slows trade
20-Apr-2026 12:44 PM
Australia Pulses Market Update: Dryness in north slows trade
Rising dryness in northern Australia and flat export prices have further slowed trading in chickpeas and lentils. Subsoil moisture remains critically low in northern New South Wales and south-west Queensland, pointing to a sharp decline in chickpea and faba bean acreage this year.
In contrast, good rainfall since late February in Victoria and South Australia is likely to boost lentil sowing, keeping the new-crop outlook positive.
Chickpeas
Chickpeas delivered Brisbane are trading around A$630/tonne (~$450), largely steady from March. At current prices, growers have little incentive to sell existing stocks or plant new crops.
Firm wheat prices in the northern market are encouraging farmers to sell wheat while holding back chickpea stocks.
Lentils
Bulk lentil exports have nearly stalled, with limited stocks remaining in South Australia and Victoria.
Container trade continues, with Nipper varieties at A$630–660/tonne (~$450–472) and Jumbo types at A$720–750/tonne (~$515–535). Larger-seeded varieties are attracting a premium.
However, dry topsoil remains a concern, and dry sowing is likely to increase.
Outlook
With ongoing dryness in northern regions and the potential for El Niño, growers remain cautious. Many may opt to fallow land during winter, waiting for better rainfall and lower input costs by September before committing to planting.