The Hindu Business Line : Global peas supply up on higher output

WORLD supply of dry peas increased by 15 per cent to 12.6 million tonnes (mt) for the crop year 2003-04 (August-July) over previous season, mainly because of higher production in Canada, EU and the US.

During the review period, world supply of lentils increased by 14 per cent to 3.62 mt, due mainly to higher production in Canada and world supply of dry beans decreased by 5 per cent to 8.3 mt. US and Canadian supply of nearly all-major classes of dry beans decreased, according to latest report on `Pulse and special crops outlook' released by the Department of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Canada.

World supply of chickpeas for 2003-04 was decreased 5 per cent to 8.3 mt. Canadian exports are forecast to decrease due to lower supply. Production and supply of chickpeas in Canada fell due to a 26 per cent decrease in seeded area and higher abandonment. Production increased marginally for the large and small kabuli types, but decreased for the desi type. However, supply decreased for all types due to lower carry-in stocks.

Total availability of Canadian dry peas for year 2004-05 is expected to increase, due to a 7 per cent increase in seeded area and higher yields. Production increased for yellow, green and other types,

Canadian exports and domestic use are forecast to increase due to the higher supply and lower prices. For exports, most of the increase is expected to be to the EU and Asia.

Total availability of lentils in Canada increased during the review period, due to a 41 per cent increase in seeded area and higher yields. Production increased for large, medium and small green, red and other types.

The average quality is significantly lower than in 2003-04.