Pulses imports likely to cross three-million tons in FY13: IPGA.

MUMBAI: The import of pulses is likely to cross three million tonnes this fiscal due to growing demand, country's apex body of pulses industry and trade said.

"We are expecting similar or slight growth in imports of pulses, which is likely to cross three million tonne in FY13, as there is constant growth in demand," India Pulses and Grains Association President Pravin Dongre told reporters.

Over half of this will be peas from Canada, Russia and France. The rest will be chick peas from Australia, urad and moong from Myanmar and channa and toor from Africa.

India has also started importing green peas from Argentina, which is becoming popular.

"Last year about 25,000-25,000 tonne green peas were imported from Argentina, which will increase this year," he said.

According to second Advance Estimates of the government, production of pulses in 2011-12 is expected to the tune of 17.28 million tonnes against 18.24 million tonnes in 2010-11.

India depends on the import of pulses to meet the domestic production shortfall of 3-4 million tonnes.

Meanwhile, the International Pulses Trade and Industry Confederation announced The 2012 Annual Global Pulses Convention from April 21-24 in Dubai.

The Convention, which is expecting to see participation of over 1,000 delegates from over 50 countries, will bring all stakeholders under one platform to exchange ideas and chart strategy for the future.

Source : economictimes.indiatimes.com