Mumbai, August 19 (Commoditiescontrol):Canadian chickpea exports reached an all-time high for the 2022-23 period, recording a significant 235 thousand tonnes (Kt). This uptick was primarily attributed to an increased demand from Turkey, the US, and the European Union. The surge in exports, combined with a lower supply, has prompted expectations of a sharp decline in carry-out stocks. Concurrently, the average price for chickpeas was marginally above that of the previous year, an outcome of a dip in global supplies.
Looking ahead, forecasts for the 2023-24 season suggest a production increase to 170 Kt, spurred by an expansion in cultivation areas. Provincially, Saskatchewan remains at the forefront of chickpea production, accounting for the lion's share, followed by Alberta. However, despite the increased production, the overall supply is projected to be less than last year. In terms of exports, a decrease is anticipated compared to the numbers from 2022-23. As for the carry-out stocks, they are expected to hover around similar levels as the previous year. Importantly, chickpea prices are projected to see a notable decrease in 2023-24.
In related news from the US, the USDA forecasts an increase in the chickpea cultivation area by 10% for the 2023-2024 season, bringing it to 0.39 million acres. Given average yields and abandonment rates, the AAFC predicts the US chickpea production for 2023-24 to touch 0.23 Mt, marking a considerable 40% increase from the last year.
(By Commoditiescontrol Bureau: 09820130172)