Indian import policy
As of 2026-11 (verify each shipment — this policy changes often): lentils carry 10% duty (5% BCD + 5% AIDC) since Mar 2025; yellow peas carry 30% (10% BCD + 20% AIDC) for bills of lading after 31 Oct 2025 (Notification 46/2025-Customs, reported). DGFT keeps yellow peas 'Free' with import-monitoring registration, reportedly extended to 31 Mar 2027 (secondary source). A plant-quarantine import permit, phytosanitary certificate and fumigation are required; FSSAI FICS clearance applies; stock limits may be imposed. Sources: https://globaltradealert.org/state-act/95049-india-reintroduction-of-customs-duty-and-agriculture-infrastructure-and-development-cess-on-yellow-peas; https://taxguru.in/dgft/dgft-allows-free-import-yellow-peas-march-31-2027.html; https://madhyamamonline.com/amp/india/govt-imposes-10-duty-on-lentils-extends-yellow-peas-duty-freeimport-1387607.
Check the current DGFT, BIS and CBIC notifications before contracting.
Importing lentils & yellow peas into India: requirements
| Requirement | Authority | Document |
|---|---|---|
| Importer-Exporter Code; GST; ICEGATE | DGFT / GSTN / CBIC | IEC; GSTIN; ICEGATE DSC registration |
| Import policy classification | DGFT | ITC(HS) policy: Free/Restricted/Prohibited/STE; import authorisation if Restricted |
| Customs declaration & duty | CBIC / ICEGATE | Bill of Entry; BCD + AIDC + SWS(10% of BCD) + IGST |
| Import clearance NOC | FSSAI | FICS NOC after Bill of Entry; FSSAI Central licence |
| Import permit before shipment | DPPQS (Plant Quarantine) | Import permit PQ-01/PQ-02; PSC with additional declarations |
| Trusted trader status | CBIC | AEO-T1/T2/T3/LO |
Import trend
DGFT 'Pulses' FY25 5,477 -> FY26 3,573 (-34.8%) as duties returned; FY25 volume ~6.7-7.3 Mt (sources differ)
Where Indian buyers are
Madhya Pradesh — Indore, Katni. Large dal-milling centres
Maharashtra — Mumbai, Akola, Latur. Port-linked trade and dal mills
West Bengal — Kolkata. Major masur (lentil) consumption and milling centre
Tamil Nadu — Chennai, Virudhunagar. South-India dal and besan trade
Rajasthan / Gujarat — Bikaner, Rajkot. Besan and namkeen makers using peas and chana
Frequently asked questions
What is the import duty on lentils in India?
Lentils have carried 10% duty (5% basic customs duty plus 5% AIDC) since March 2025. Pulse duties change often, so check the latest CBIC notification before contracting.
What is the import duty on yellow peas?
Yellow peas carry 30% (10% basic duty plus 20% AIDC) for bills of lading dated after 31 October 2025. DGFT keeps them 'Free' to import with import-monitoring registration.
Do imported pulses need fumigation?
Yes. India's Plant Quarantine Order requires fumigation, usually methyl bromide at origin, plus an import permit and phytosanitary certificate. Some origins have had temporary derogations — check current rules.
Which countries supply lentils and peas to India?
Canada and Australia for lentils; Canada and Russia for yellow peas. Myanmar and East Africa supply other pulses such as tur and urad.
Why did India's pulse imports fall in FY2025-26?
Duties returned on lentils and yellow peas, and better domestic crops cut import demand; DGFT data show a 34.8% fall in import value.
Import routes
Source lentils & yellow peas for India
Tell us specification, volume and delivery city in India.