★Despite pressure from a stronger Australian dollar, limited farmer selling has kept chickpea and lentil prices supported. Bulk lentils delivered at port are trading around AUD 660 per tonne, up AUD 20 over the past month. In December, Australia exported 4.10 lakh tonnes of lentils, significantly higher than last year. Additional large cargoes are scheduled to load from South Australia and Victoria this month.

★Growers are selling in limited quantities and releasing stocks only at higher price levels. This measured selling has led to short positions in the market, contributing to price spikes. A similar trend is being observed in Canada, where improved relations with China have boosted demand.

★Chickpeas delivered to Brisbane are trading near AUD 630 per tonne, about AUD 5 higher than mid-January levels. December chickpea exports stood at 5.88 lakh tonnes, exceeding expectations. However, the strong Australian dollar is limiting further price gains.

★Concerns over India’s rabi crop are generating some buying interest from Indian markets. While Ramadan may slow purchases from Bangladesh, Pakistan remains active in the market.

★Overall, growers’ disciplined selling strategy has supported prices, with supply currently not chasing demand.