Despite ongoing global trade tensions and tariff barriers, Asia’s pulse trade is showing remarkable resilience, driven by growing demand from countries like India and Bangladesh and shifting supply chains involving Canada, Australia, and Russia.
While the United States, under former President Donald Trump, imposed fresh tariffs as part of his protectionist trade agenda, analysts say their impact on the global pulse market remains minimal. The U.S. plays a relatively small role in pulse exports, accounting for just 1.2 to 1.5 million tonnes annually—far below Canada and Australia, which together shipped over 9 million tonnes in 2024.
Tariffs from the U.S. are unlikely to disrupt the pulse trade significantly. Weather volatility will have a greater influence in the coming year.
India and Bangladesh Lead Import Growth
India continues to be the world’s largest importer of pulses, accounting for 32% of global imports, followed by China (11%), and Bangladesh and Pakistan at 6% each. Analysts note a marked increase in India’s demand for yellow peas since 2024, with Canadian exports to the country rising from 1.2 million tonnes in 2024 to 2 million tonnes between April 2024 and February 2025.
Gaurav Jain, analyst at AgPulse Analytica, added, “India’s growing consumption has created a resurgence in trade volumes despite broader geopolitical uncertainties. Canadian suppliers are increasingly turning to South Asia to compensate for losses in China and the U.S.”
Canada, Australia, and Russia Dominate Export Markets
According to RaboResearch and UN COMTRADE data, Canada and Australia remain the top global exporters, contributing 24% and 18% respectively to the global pulse market in 2025. Russia has increased its market share to 13%, bolstered by rising demand from China, which is diversifying its sourcing to include Russia and Kazakhstan amid strained diplomatic relations with Canada.
China had previously imposed a 100% tariff on certain Canadian agricultural imports, a move widely seen as retaliation in the wake of the 2018 Meng Wanzhou diplomatic incident.
Geopolitical Tensions Trigger Realignments
While Canada’s exports to China and the U.S. have slowed, trade experts believe the long-term prospects remain positive due to increased engagement with alternative markets in Asia. In contrast, the European Union is now facing its challenges, including a new 50% import duty on Russian and Belarusian peas and sluggish domestic output, raising concerns about its self-sufficiency in the pulse sector.
“The Asian market has shown greater agility in response to geopolitical pressures. Relationships with emerging economies like India, Bangladesh, and even Vietnam are proving critical for global exporters,” said Jain.
Tariffs Seen as Political Tools
Experts also pointed out that many recent tariffs were more political than economic. “Trump’s trade policies often used tariffs as levers for broader political goals, including foreign policy negotiations and domestic industry protection,” said Chiang. Similarly, China’s punitive measures against Canada were perceived as symbolic responses rather than supply-driven actions.
Outlook: Demand Stays Strong, Eyes on India
Looking ahead to 2025–2026, industry stakeholders are watching whether India’s strong demand for Canadian pulses will hold steady and whether other Asian markets can develop into stable, long-term importers. As global supply chains adapt and shift in response to both weather and geopolitics, agility and strategic partnerships will remain essential for exporters navigating the changing pulse trade landscape.