Government Imposes 10% Import Duty on Lentils, Extends Duty-Free Yellow Peas Import Till May 31

Move Aimed at Boosting Domestic Availability of Pulses in India​

The Indian government has introduced a 10% import duty on lentils (mosur) and simultaneously extended the duty-free import period for yellow peas until May 31, 2025, according to a recent finance ministry notification.

Breakdown of the New Import Duty Structure on Lentils​

Effective from March 8, lentils imports will attract a 5% Basic Customs Duty (BCD) along with an additional 5% Agriculture Infrastructure and Development Cess (AIDC), making up the total of 10%. Previously, lentils imported into the country were entirely exempt from import duties.

Duty-Free Yellow Peas Import Extended Again​

The government first permitted duty-free imports of yellow peas in December 2023. The exemption, originally scheduled to end on February 28, 2025, has now been extended by three additional months, until May 31, 2025. This marks the third extension granted by authorities, emphasizing continued efforts to stabilize domestic pulse supplies.

India's Dependence on Imported Pulses Remains Significant​

Recent data estimates that India's imports of yellow peas were approximately 30 lakh tonnes in 2024. This accounted for nearly half of the total pulses imports, which stood at 67 lakh tonnes for the same period.

The latest import policy adjustments by the government are strategically aimed at encouraging domestic pulse production, reducing dependency on imported pulses, and managing market stability for these essential food commodities.