Pakistan is witnessing a strong recovery in chickpeas cultivation, with the total area reaching:
- 931,000 hectares this year
- Compared to 800,000–993,000 hectares in recent years affected by drought
Favorable rainfall has significantly improved planting conditions, especially in key producing regions.
🌧️ Weather Impact & Production Outlook
Timely rains during November–January have boosted both irrigated and rainfed farming, particularly in Thal.
Expected Production:
- Around 250,000 metric tons
Consumption Requirement:
- ~800,000 metric tons
➡️ Despite recovery, Pakistan still faces a supply gap in chickpeas.
🌾 Regional Highlights
Bhakkar District Revival
- Bhakkar (Thal Desert) has transformed after years of drought
- 162,000 hectares brought under cultivation
- Varieties grown: White, red, and black chickpeas
Quality Zones:
- Mankera
- Dullewala
➡️ Known for high-quality, nutritious chickpeas
🌱 Yield Improvement
According to the Agriculture Department:
- Yields reaching up to 3 bags per acre
- Significant improvement compared to previous drought-hit seasons
➡️ Continued favorable weather could push production even higher.
📉 Price Dynamics
Despite better production, market prices have dropped sharply:
- From Rs 330/kg → Rs 160/kg
➡️ Reasons:
- Improved supply outlook
- Weak market absorption
- Limited export channels
⚖️ Supply vs Demand Impact
Positive Side:
- Higher yields boosting farmer output
- Improved food security
- Stronger regional agribusiness activity
Challenges:
- Prices falling despite higher production
- Farmers facing margin pressure
- Lack of export avenues to absorb surplus
🔮 Market Outlook
Short-Term:
- Prices likely to remain under pressure due to increased supply
Medium-Term:
- Export expansion can stabilize prices
- Government support (seeds, technology) can improve productivity
🔚 Conclusion
Pakistan’s chickpeas sector is recovering strongly due to favorable weather, with increased cultivation and improved yields. However, falling prices highlight the need for better market access and export opportunities. Strategic support from the government will be essential to ensure that this bumper crop translates into sustainable income for farmers.
The Agri-Crop editorial team comprises commodity market analysts, rice trade specialists, and agriculture industry professionals based in Pakistan. We track daily price movements, export data, and policy developments across Pakistan’s key agricultural sectors.
