Chickpeas Market Developments

The global chickpeas market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for plant-based proteins, health-conscious eating habits, and innovations in food processing. As of 2025, the market is valued at approximately USD 16.83 billion and is projected to reach USD 22.95 billion by 2029, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.6%.

Market Drivers

The surge in chickpea consumption is largely attributed to their nutritional benefits, including high protein and fiber content, making them a staple in vegan and vegetarian diets. The versatility of chickpeas has led to their incorporation into various products such as hummus, snacks, ready-to-eat meals, and dairy alternatives. This diversification caters to a broader consumer base seeking healthy and convenient food options.

Chickpeas have also gained popularity in the foodservice and convenience foods industries. Consumers increasingly prefer products that offer both health benefits and ease of preparation, and chickpeas meet both needs. Their use in gluten-free and allergen-free products further enhances their market appeal.

Production Trends

Global chickpea production is on the rise, with forecasts indicating a 2% increase to 17.1 million tonnes in the 2024–2025 season. This growth is primarily driven by record production levels in Australia, which has expanded its chickpea planting area in response to favorable market conditions. The country’s efficient agricultural practices and favorable climate have positioned it as a major global supplier.

Similarly, Canadian farmers are planning to increase chickpea cultivation in 2025. The shift reflects the crop’s growing popularity as a key ingredient in plant-based diets and its profitability in the global export market. Other countries in Asia and the Americas are also ramping up production to capitalize on rising demand.

Price Fluctuations

Despite the growing demand, chickpea prices have experienced volatility. Spot prices declined from $91.27 per unit in September 2024 to $53.77 by March 2025, influenced by increased global supply and record harvests in key producing regions. These price fluctuations present challenges for producers and traders in maintaining profitability.

Oversupply, especially from major producers like Australia and India, has exerted downward pressure on prices. Additionally, inconsistent rainfall patterns and climate-related issues can affect production levels, further complicating price stability.

Regional Insights

India

As the world’s largest chickpea producer and consumer, India plays a pivotal role in the global market. Regulatory measures, such as the extension of the derivatives trading ban on chickpeas until March 2025, have impacted market dynamics and created uncertainty for traders. Government policies and monsoon variability continue to influence the domestic supply and price stability.

United States

The U.S. market has seen a decline in chickpea consumption, dropping by 16.1% to 181,000 tons in 2024. This decrease is attributed to factors such as changing consumer preferences, competition from other legumes and protein sources, and market saturation in traditional chickpea-based products like hummus. However, there are signs of renewed interest through innovation in plant-based alternatives and snack segments.

Australia

Australia’s chickpea production has reached near-record levels, contributing significantly to the global supply. The country’s exports have shown substantial year-over-year growth, positioning it as a key player in the international market. Its focus on export-oriented agriculture and favorable trade relationships with countries in South Asia and the Middle East strengthen its competitive position.

Innovations and Future Outlook

The chickpea market is witnessing innovations in product development, including the emergence of chickpea-based dairy alternatives. The global chickpea milk market, for instance, is expected to expand from USD 197.4 million in 2025 to USD 315.2 million by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 4.8%. This trend is driven by rising demand for non-dairy beverages and clean-label products.

In addition to new product applications, advancements in sustainable farming practices and supply chain efficiencies are anticipated to support market growth. Precision agriculture, climate-resilient seed varieties, and blockchain-based traceability are among the tools being explored to enhance productivity and transparency.

Retailers and manufacturers are also investing in sustainable packaging and carbon footprint reduction, further aligning chickpeas with environmentally conscious consumer preferences. E-commerce and direct-to-consumer channels are gaining traction, particularly for niche products like organic and sprouted chickpeas.

Conclusion

The chickpeas market is poised for continued growth, driven by health trends, dietary shifts, and product innovations. However, stakeholders must navigate challenges such as price volatility, climate risks, and regulatory changes. Strategic investments in sustainable practices, technological integration, and market diversification will be crucial for capitalizing on emerging opportunities in this dynamic sector.