Lentil prices soften in Canada due to limited export demand

23-May-2025 05:44 PM

Vancouver. Lentil trade in the markets of western Canada has slowed down and prices have softened. Foreign importers are purchasing only limited quantities to meet immediate requirements and are showing little interest in advance deals.

The pace of lentil sowing has increased in key producing provinces such as Saskatchewan and Alberta. In Saskatchewan, sowing was completed in 90 percent of the designated area by May 19, 2025. However, the total area under lentil cultivation this year may be slightly lower than last year.

There are indications of a slight increase in lentil acreage in Saskatchewan, the most prominent producing province. Recent rainfall in many parts of the province is expected to benefit lentil production.

Buyers anticipate that increased supply may place additional pressure on prices. Along with lentils, peas and chickpeas are also widely cultivated in Saskatchewan.

Pulse crops have been sown in about 79 percent of the targeted area in the province. Germination of lentil seeds is reported to be normal, and conditions are also satisfactory in Alberta.

The current price of large green lentils in Canada is between 44 and 46 cents per pound. The price of small green lentils is 38–40 cents per pound for existing stock and 34–36 cents per pound for the upcoming new crop.

Red lentils are priced steadily at 32–33 cents per pound, while the new crop is being offered at 28–30 cents per pound.

Lentil sowing is expected to be completed in the next one or two weeks, and harvesting is scheduled to begin in August–September. Demand for Canadian lentils has weakened in key export markets such as India and Turkey.