Introduction
Lentils are a staple food in many cultures around the world, and their demand continues to grow globally. In this report, we will explore the top 10 lentil importing countries in the world in 2025, analyzing their import volumes, trends, and key players in the industry.
1. India
Import Volume:
India is the largest importer of lentils in the world, importing over 1.5 million metric tons annually. The country’s growing population and increasing demand for plant-based protein sources have contributed to this high import volume.
Key Players:
Some of the key players in the lentil import industry in India include Adani Wilmar, Cargill India, and Olam International. These companies play a crucial role in sourcing lentils from top exporting countries like Canada and Australia.
2. Turkey
Import Volume:
Turkey is the second-largest importer of lentils, with an annual import volume of over 1 million metric tons. The country’s cuisine heavily relies on lentils, leading to a consistent demand for this legume.
Key Players:
Some of the key players in the lentil import industry in Turkey include Tiryaki Agro, Tekfen Agri, and Beyaz Filiz. These companies have established strong partnerships with lentil exporters from countries like the United States and Russia.
3. Bangladesh
Import Volume:
Bangladesh imports over 800,000 metric tons of lentils annually, making it one of the top importers in the world. The country’s population relies heavily on lentils as a source of protein in their diet.
Key Players:
Some of the key players in the lentil import industry in Bangladesh include Navana Group, City Group, and ACI Limited. These companies work closely with lentil producers in countries like Myanmar and Canada to meet the demand in Bangladesh.
4. Egypt
Import Volume:
Egypt imports over 700,000 metric tons of lentils annually, mainly sourcing from countries like Canada and the United States. The country’s growing population and changing dietary preferences have driven the demand for lentils.
Key Players:
Some of the key players in the lentil import industry in Egypt include Amer Group, Agrocorp, and Al Ghurair Foods. These companies play a vital role in ensuring a stable supply of lentils in the country.
5. United Arab Emirates
Import Volume:
The United Arab Emirates imports over 600,000 metric tons of lentils annually, primarily from countries like India and Australia. The country’s diverse population and culinary influences contribute to the high demand for lentils.
Key Players:
Some of the key players in the lentil import industry in the United Arab Emirates include Al Ghurair Foods, Emirates Grain Products, and Agthia Group. These companies play a crucial role in meeting the demand for lentils in the country.
6. Saudi Arabia
Import Volume:
Saudi Arabia imports over 500,000 metric tons of lentils annually, mainly from countries like Canada and Australia. The country’s population relies on lentils as a staple food in their diet.
Key Players:
Some of the key players in the lentil import industry in Saudi Arabia include Almarai, Al Rajhi Holding Group, and Al Jazira Group. These companies work closely with lentil exporters to ensure a consistent supply of lentils in the country.
7. Pakistan
Import Volume:
Pakistan imports over 400,000 metric tons of lentils annually, sourcing from countries like Canada and the United States. The country’s population relies on lentils as a source of protein and nutrients.
Key Players:
Some of the key players in the lentil import industry in Pakistan include Rehman Group, Matco Foods, and Al Ghurair Foods. These companies play a crucial role in meeting the demand for lentils in Pakistan.
8. Indonesia
Import Volume:
Indonesia imports over 300,000 metric tons of lentils annually, mainly from countries like Canada and Australia. The country’s diverse culinary landscape contributes to the demand for lentils.
Key Players:
Some of the key players in the lentil import industry in Indonesia include Indofood, Salim Group, and Cargill Indonesia. These companies work closely with lentil exporters to ensure a steady supply of lentils in Indonesia.
9. Malaysia
Import Volume:
Malaysia imports over 200,000 metric tons of lentils annually, primarily from countries like Canada and Australia. The country’s multicultural population drives the demand for lentils in Malaysian cuisine.
Key Players:
Some of the key players in the lentil import industry in Malaysia include Sime Darby, IOI Corporation, and FGV Holdings. These companies play a crucial role in sourcing lentils from top exporting countries to meet the demand in Malaysia.
10. Sri Lanka
Import Volume:
Sri Lanka imports over 100,000 metric tons of lentils annually, sourcing from countries like Canada and Australia. The country’s cuisine heavily relies on lentils, driving the demand for this legume.
Key Players:
Some of the key players in the lentil import industry in Sri Lanka include CIC Holdings, Hayleys Agriculture, and Pyramid Wilmar. These companies play a vital role in ensuring a stable supply of lentils in Sri Lanka.
Conclusion
In conclusion, lentils are a popular food source worldwide, with several countries heavily reliant on imports to meet their demand. The top 10 lentil importing countries in the world in 2025 showcase the global significance of this legume in various cuisines and diets. Key players in the industry play a crucial role in ensuring a steady supply of lentils to meet the growing demand in these countries.
