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India Becomes the Largest Buyer of Ukrainian Peas

by Roman Cheplyk
Monday, September 22, 2025
2 MIN
India Becomes the Largest Buyer of Ukrainian Peas

China is preparing to open its market, while Ukrainian farmers increase production by one-third in 2025

India Remains Key Market

India has consolidated its role as the largest importer of Ukrainian peas, according to Antonina Sklyarenko, President of the Ukrainian Bean and Soybean Association. She explained on the air of Suspilne Novyny that India’s decision to abolish import duties on peas for three years has significantly stimulated demand and boosted purchase prices for Ukrainian farmers.


China Opens New Opportunities

In 2025, Ukraine signed a protocol with China on pea exports. The approval of the first deliveries is now at the final stage. This move is expected to diversify export destinations and strengthen Ukraine’s position in the global pulse market.

“Now there is every chance to catch up, since the increase in export opportunities stimulates Ukrainian farmers to expand the area sown with peas,” Sklyarenko emphasized.


Production Growth in 2025

  • This year, Ukraine harvested over 600,000 tons of peas from 266,000 hectares.

  • That’s 33% more than last year, showing steady growth despite wartime challenges.

  • Domestic consumption remains relatively low — only 70–75,000 tons annually, meaning most of the crop is exported.


Ukraine’s Position on the Global Market

Before the war, Ukraine was among the top three pea exporters worldwide. Currently, the country ranks 6th–7th, but with expanding opportunities in India and China, experts believe Ukraine can quickly restore its previous market share.


Strategic Export Agreements

On March 6, 2025, the Ministry of Agrarian Policy signed an agreement with the People’s Republic of China covering:

  • the supply of peas to the Chinese market;

  • the export of wild-caught aquatic products (fish and seafood from natural waters).

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