Lentil Prices Rise in Australia Despite Expectations of a Bumper Harvest

Melbourne. Although South Asian nations are increasingly importing 'Napper' variety lentils—a small-seeded type—from Canada, prices in Australia have also risen. Over the past month, prices have climbed by $50, reaching $590 per tonne for delivery to Wimmera Packers and $600 per tonne for delivery at the port.

In the state of South Australia and the Mallee region, producers are engaging in forward selling of their lentil crops. Harvesting of the new lentil crop is expected to begin in the Mallee region as early as next week.

A bumper harvest is anticipated in both South Australia and Victoria—the two leading producing states—driven by an increase in the area sown and favorable weather and rainfall conditions, which are expected to boost average crop yields.

As harvesting operations are set to intensify, further rainfall is not required; in fact, unseasonal rain could negatively impact the quality of the lentil grains.

Some export contracts for lentils from South Australia have already been secured, but shipments of this new crop will not be possible until after mid-November. Logistics remain a challenge, with a persistent shortage of available empty shipping containers.