October 8, 2026
Australia’s main winter pulses are heading into harvest on very different trajectories. We examine production projections and potential impacts for the global market, canvassing opinion from industry insiders at home and in countries affected by its output.
A mixed harvest ahead: predictions point to a lentil rise and acre-driven chickpea dip
Taking the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences' (ABARES) September forecasts at face value, Australia's winter pulse production is set for significant year-on-year (YoY) changes. Shifts in acreage and an unusual climate have both contributed, and the effects will become clear as the harvest unfolds through October–December. Together, these cropping variables point to a decidedly mixed bag for Aussie supply.
The most recent September 2026 forecast by ABARES suggests chickpea production could be as much as 52% below last year's winter crop, at around 1.05 MMT. This is perhaps not a surprise, given that chickpea acreage is estimated to be approximately 37% lower than last year's winter crop seedings.
READ THE FULL ARTICLE
Australian desi chickpeas — Area harvested vs production 2017-2025 (Source: Pulse Atlas).
Australian red lentils — Area harvested vs production 2017-2025 (Source: Pulse Atlas).
Disclaimer: The opinions or views expressed in this publication are those of the authors or quoted persons. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of the Global Pulse Confederation or its members.
