India Extends Duty-Free Yellow Peas Imports Until March 2027.

New Delhi; April 2026: India has extended the period ​for duty-free imports ‌of yellow peas until March ​31, 2027, the ​commerce ministry said ⁠in a notification ​today. All other ​terms and conditions governing such imports would ​remain unchanged, ​the government said. India is the world’s largest importer of yellow peas (matar dal), which it imports mainly from Canada and Russia.

The government had earlier allowed duty-free imports of yellow peas until March 31, 2026, but domestic farmers had urged authorities to curb the influx of cheap imports that were pressuring local prices, hence on October 30th the government had announced an imposition of 30% import duties (10% basic customs duty and a 20% agriculture cess) on yellow peas effective from 01st November 2025. The order had further stated that shipments with a bill of lading dated on or before October 31, 2025, will be exempt from the duty.

Government of India had cited the move is meant to protect local farmers and control domestic prices. Americans had feared that exports may drop, affecting their income and production plans.

Under this policy, the legume can be imported without a minimum import price and without port restrictions, while the 10% customs duty and an additional 20% Agriculture Infrastructure and Development Cess (AIDC) remain in effect.

The existing import rules also continue to apply to pigeon peas and mung beans, which can still be imported duty-free.

“The government’s decision to extend the import policy for another year is the right step, as it will ensure long-term stability for the sector”, said Bimal Kothari, Chairman of the Indian Association of Pulses and Grain Importers.

India: Yellow Pea Import Report (HS Code: 07131010) –

Imports from Canada:

★ Canada has consistently remained India’s largest supplier of yellow peas.

★ In FY 2023–24, total imports stood at 605,151 metric tons.

★ In FY 2024–25, imports surged to 1,087,427 metric tons.

★ In April 2025, 56,570 tons were imported.

★ For May 2025, estimated imports are 1,102 tons.

★ From December 2023 to May 2025, total imports from Canada reached approximately 1,750,250 Metric Tons.

Imports from Russia:

★ Russia emerged as the second-largest supplier of yellow peas to India.

★ In FY 2023–24, India imported 355,790 metric tons.

★ In FY 2024–25, this rose to 671,621 metric tons.

★ In April 2025, imports stood at 22,841 tons.

★ Estimated imports for May 2025 are around 23,033 tons.

★ From December 2023 to May 2025, total imports from Russia are expected to reach about 1,073,285    Metric Tons.

Team Maverick.