Introduction
Lentils are a staple food in many countries around the world, providing an excellent source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. In 2025, the global production of lentils continues to be significant, with several countries leading the way in cultivation and export. This report will explore the top 10 lentil-producing countries in the world, highlighting their production volumes, industry insights, and financial data.
1. Canada
Overview
Canada is one of the largest producers of lentils in the world, with the majority of its production concentrated in the provinces of Saskatchewan and Alberta. The country has ideal growing conditions for lentils, including fertile soil and a favorable climate. Canadian lentils are known for their high quality and are in high demand in international markets.
Production Volumes
In 2025, Canada continues to maintain its position as the top producer of lentils, with an estimated production volume of over 2 million metric tons. The country exports a significant portion of its production to countries in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Industry Insights
The lentil industry in Canada is supported by strong government policies, research and development initiatives, and modern agricultural practices. Canadian farmers have access to advanced technologies and machinery, allowing for efficient and sustainable production.
2. India
Overview
India is another major player in the global lentil market, with a long history of lentil cultivation. The country produces a wide variety of lentils, including green lentils, red lentils, and black lentils. Lentils are an essential part of the Indian diet and are consumed in various forms, such as dal, soups, and salads.
Production Volumes
In 2025, India is expected to produce around 1.5 million metric tons of lentils, making it one of the top producers in the world. The country’s domestic consumption of lentils is also significant, with lentils being a staple food for millions of Indians.
Industry Insights
The lentil industry in India is characterized by a large number of small-scale farmers who grow lentils on a subsistence basis. The government has implemented various programs to support lentil farmers, including subsidies, loans, and training programs.
3. Turkey
Overview
Turkey is a key player in the lentil market, with a long tradition of lentil cultivation. The country produces a variety of lentils, including red lentils, green lentils, and brown lentils. Turkish lentils are known for their rich flavor and nutritional value.
Production Volumes
In 2025, Turkey is expected to produce around 1 million metric tons of lentils, with a significant portion of its production being exported to countries in the Middle East and Europe. The country’s lentil exports contribute to its economy and support local farmers.
Industry Insights
The lentil industry in Turkey is supported by modern agricultural practices, research institutions, and government policies. Turkish farmers have access to advanced technologies and machinery, allowing for efficient and sustainable production.
4. Australia
Overview
Australia is a major producer of lentils, with lentil cultivation concentrated in the states of South Australia and Victoria. The country produces a variety of lentils, including red lentils, green lentils, and French lentils. Australian lentils are known for their high quality and are in demand in international markets.
Production Volumes
In 2025, Australia is expected to produce around 800,000 metric tons of lentils, with a significant portion of its production being exported to countries in Asia and the Middle East. The country’s lentil exports contribute to its economy and support local farmers.
Industry Insights
The lentil industry in Australia is supported by research institutions, government policies, and industry associations. Australian farmers are adopting sustainable farming practices to ensure the long-term viability of lentil production.
5. United States
Overview
The United States is a significant producer of lentils, with lentil cultivation concentrated in states such as Montana, North Dakota, and Washington. The country produces a variety of lentils, including green lentils, red lentils, and black lentils. U.S. lentils are known for their high quality and nutritional value.
Production Volumes
In 2025, the United States is expected to produce around 700,000 metric tons of lentils, with a significant portion of its production being consumed domestically. The country’s lentil production supports local farmers and contributes to the economy.
Industry Insights
The lentil industry in the United States is supported by government subsidies, research institutions, and industry associations. U.S. farmers have access to advanced technologies and machinery, allowing for efficient and sustainable production.
6. Nepal
Overview
Nepal is a significant producer of lentils in the region, with lentil cultivation concentrated in the hilly regions of the country. The country produces a variety of lentils, including red lentils, green lentils, and black lentils. Nepalese lentils are known for their rich flavor and nutritional value.
Production Volumes
In 2025, Nepal is expected to produce around 500,000 metric tons of lentils, with a significant portion of its production being consumed domestically. Lentils are a staple food in Nepal and are consumed in various forms, such as dal, soups, and curries.
Industry Insights
The lentil industry in Nepal is supported by government policies, research institutions, and industry associations. Nepalese farmers are adopting modern agricultural practices to increase productivity and ensure the sustainability of lentil production.
7. Ethiopia
Overview
Ethiopia is a major producer of lentils in Africa, with lentil cultivation concentrated in regions such as Amhara and Oromia. The country produces a variety of lentils, including red lentils, green lentils, and brown lentils. Ethiopian lentils are known for their rich flavor and nutritional value.
Production Volumes
In 2025, Ethiopia is expected to produce around 400,000 metric tons of lentils, with a significant portion of its production being consumed domestically. Lentils are a staple food in Ethiopia and are consumed in various forms, such as wat (stew) and salads.
Industry Insights
The lentil industry in Ethiopia is supported by government policies, research institutions, and industry associations. Ethiopian farmers are adopting modern agricultural practices to increase productivity and ensure the sustainability of lentil production.
8. France
Overview
France is a significant producer of lentils in Europe, with lentil cultivation concentrated in regions such as Auvergne and Berry. The country produces a variety of lentils, including green lentils, Puy lentils, and Du Puy lentils. French lentils are known for their rich flavor and nutritional value.
Production Volumes
In 2025, France is expected to produce around 300,000 metric tons of lentils, with a significant portion of its production being consumed domestically. French lentils are a popular ingredient in traditional French cuisine, such as soups, salads, and casseroles.
Industry Insights
The lentil industry in France is supported by government subsidies, research institutions, and industry associations. French farmers have access to advanced technologies and machinery, allowing for efficient and sustainable production.
9. Myanmar
Overview
Myanmar is a significant producer of lentils in Southeast Asia, with lentil cultivation concentrated in regions such as Mandalay and Sagaing. The country produces a variety of lentils, including red lentils, green lentils, and black lentils. Myanmar lentils are known for their rich flavor and nutritional value.
Production Volumes
In 2025, Myanmar is expected to produce around 200,000 metric tons of lentils, with a significant portion of its production being consumed domestically. Lentils are a staple food in Myanmar and are consumed in various forms, such as soups, curries, and salads.
Industry Insights
The lentil industry in Myanmar is supported by government policies, research institutions, and industry associations. Myanmar farmers are adopting modern agricultural practices to increase productivity and ensure the sustainability of lentil production.
10. Pakistan
Overview
Pakistan is a significant producer of lentils in South Asia, with lentil cultivation concentrated in regions such as Punjab and Sindh. The country produces a variety of lentils, including red lentils, green lentils, and black lentils. Pakistani lentils are known for their rich flavor and nutritional value.
Production Volumes
In 2025, Pakistan is expected to produce around 150,000 metric tons of lentils, with a significant portion of its production being consumed domestically. Lentils are a staple food in Pakistan and are consumed in various forms, such as dal, soups, and curries.
Industry Insights
The lentil industry in Pakistan is supported by government policies, research institutions, and industry associations. Pakistani farmers are adopting modern agricultural practices to increase productivity and ensure the sustainability of lentil production.
In conclusion, the top 10 lentil-producing countries in the world in 2025 continue to play a crucial role in meeting global demand for this nutritious and versatile legume. These countries are characterized by their rich agricultural traditions, modern farming practices, and commitment to sustainability. As the global population continues to grow, the production of lentils will remain a key component of food security and nutrition worldwide.
