Australia pulses: Prices drop, rain brightens SA, Vic outlook

Australia's lentil and faba bean crops are expected to have improved yield prospects due to recent rainfall in South Australia and Victoria. However, germination has been delayed and double-digit drops are needed for average yields. Chickpea crops in Queensland and northern New South Wales could see above-average yields if they avoid disease in the spring. However, chickpea prices have decreased due to developments in India, while lentil markets are under pressure from the incoming Canadian crop. Faba bean values remain high as current-crop stocks are dwindling. The Australian chickpea harvest is predicted to be 1.5 million tonnes, with new-crop chickpea prices dropping to $950 per tonne. Lentil prices have also decreased by around $100/t due to a large crop in Canada and increased container freight rates to India.

Yield prospects for Australia’s lentil and faba bean crops have brightened considerably in the past month now that rain has fallen in South Australia and Victoria. However, germination has occurred later than normal for many crops, and in the depths of winter, so double-digit falls are needed in coming weeks to put at least average yields in sight. Chickpea crops in Queensland and northern New South Wales are looking at above-average yields provided they escape disease pressure once spring arrives. Chickpea prices have come off the boil in response to the latest news out of India, while lentils markets are bowing to pressure from the incoming Canadian crop. Faba bean values remain very high as current-crop stocks dwindle. All prices are in Australian dollars unless stated otherwise. Provided potential fungal disease pressure can be controlled once the weather warms up, desi chickpea crops in the major growing areas of northern NSW through to Central Qld are looking at ...