Uncertainty remains on duty free import of yellow peas

28-May-2025 05:22 PM

New Delhi. Until November 2023, the import of yellow peas was subject to a basic customs duty of up to 50 percent along with several non-tariff restrictions.

However, to boost domestic supply and curb rising prices of pulses, the government completely removed the customs duty on yellow pea imports in December 2023 and also lifted all related conditions and controls.

Since then, the deadline for duty-free import has been extended seven times. The most recent extension was made in March, setting the new deadline to 31 May 2025.

With only four days left before the current deadline expires, the government has not yet announced any decision or issued a notification regarding either the expiration or extension of the duty-free import policy.

On 28 May, a meeting of the Union Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs was held under the chairmanship of the Prime Minister. Details of the decisions taken in this meeting are awaited.

According to the chairman of the India Pulses and Grains Association (IPGA), the market is anxiously awaiting clarity on the import policy for yellow peas.

A sense of uncertainty prevails, with both Indian traders and international exporters from countries like Canada and Russia closely watching for the government's next move. The key question remains whether any import duty will be reimposed on yellow peas starting June 1.

Prices of pulses in the domestic market have dropped sharply from their peak levels, resulting in losses for both producers and traders. Meanwhile, the sowing of Kharif pulse crops has already begun in most regions.