India has suspended tariffs on Desi chickpeas.
Grains Australia has welcomed the decision, saying it was “a great outcome“ for both Australia and the Indian pulse market.
“This welcome decision by the Indian Government shows the value of continued, respectful government and industry engagement with a highly-valued trading partner,” Grains Australia Pulse Council chair Peter Wilson said.
In May, the Indian Government suspended the tariffs that had been equivalent to about 66 per cent, with the decision effective until 31 March, 2025.
India introduced tariffs on chickpeas initially equating to 33pc in 2017/2018, effectively eliminating Australian chickpea exports into India – the world’s biggest consumer of chickpeas.
Mr Wilson said the suspension of the tariffs was likely to deliver more reliable pricing for Australian chickpeas and add depth to already solid markets.
“It will increase competition for Australian chickpeas that are already exported into other important markets including Bangladesh, the United Arab Emirates and Pakistan,” he said.
Grains Australia general manager trade and market access John Ackerman said Grains Australia, in collaboration wth industry and government, looked forward to working with the Indian Government to build on the important development.
“It is a wonderful opportunity and we will be focused on ensuring we are meeting the needs of our chickpea markets, including supplying an affordable, high quality product,” Dr Ackerman said.
Grains Australia, with support from the Australian Government, was represented in New Delhi earlier this year at ‘Pulses 2024’, the annual conference of the Global Pulse Confederation and a major event on the global pulse calendar.
The event provided opportunities to communicate with Indian government and industry representatives.
A brochure, Australian Pulses – Partnering with India was produced for the conference outlining details of Australia’s valued pulse trading relationship with India.
Grains Australia is an initiative of the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) and is responsible for vital industry services and functions that improve the industry’s competitiveness and profitability.
