Muted Canadian Demand Keeps Pea Prices Steady

12-Jun-2025 04:11 PM

Saskatoon. The Government of India's decision to extend the duty-free import window for yellow peas until March 31, 2026 has not yet positively impacted the Canadian market. Pea trading activity in Western Canada remains sluggish, with prices holding steady or trending slightly downward. According to market observers, Indian importers currently show limited interest in new purchases due to ample stocks of previously imported peas still available in the country.

Pea sowing in Canada has largely concluded, and the crop is now progressing through various developmental stages. Analysts expect the harvesting of the new Canadian pea crop to begin around August–September. By that time, India’s existing stock may reduce significantly, potentially creating fresh demand for the new Canadian crop.

In contrast, China—a major pea importer—has imposed a 100 percent import duty on Canadian peas, further adding to market uncertainty. Analysts note that if Canada attempts to raise its pea prices, Indian buyers may shift their focus toward more affordable suppliers such as Russia.

Currently, the price of yellow peas in Western Canada is reported at $9.00–9.50 per bushel. Green peas are trading at $16.00–16.50 per bushel for current stock, while the new crop is priced at around $15.50 per bushel. Maple pea prices remain steady at $12–13 per bushel.

While India was the leading destination for Canadian yellow pea exports during the last financial year, imports may decline this year due to high domestic stocks and lower prices of pulses in the Indian market. Nonetheless, the Indian government's extension of duty-free imports is expected to offer some relief to Canadian pea producers and exporters, given the uncertain import outlook in other markets like China.