Exports of cereals and pulses are entering a golden age in 2025. Are Indian exporters ready to take advantage of this opportunity?
With rising global demand for plant based proteins, food security, and climate resilient crops, India’s grain and pulse exports are witnessing massive export opportunities. From high margin commodities like basmati rice and chickpeas to nutrient rich millets gaining traction in health conscious markets. Exporters, farmers, and agribusinesses who identify the most profitable agricultural export commodities have a unique opportunity to take advantage of profitable, long-term opportunities.
This guide details the top performing agricultural commodities, emerging export markets, pricing trends, trade agreements, and how Staragri can help you in the global arena.
Why Grains & Pulses Are the Smartest Export Bets in 2025?
Global consumers are moving toward plant-based proteins, gluten-free diets, and climate-resilient food sources. In parallel, many importing nations are facing a decline in local production due to drought, supply disruptions, and geopolitical conflicts, increasing their dependence on stable exporters like India.
Here’s why grains and pulses will remain dominant in agricultural exports in 2025:
- They are non-perishable and are easy to store and ship in bulk.
- Most require minimal cold chain logistics, unlike perishable produce.
- Government bodies like APEDA are actively promoting them through incentives.
- Their consumption spans across different cuisines, cultures, and income classes.
- Rising global awareness about veganism and clean label foods is boosting the consumption of pulses.
This shift positions Indian agri exporters to become global leaders in the grain and pulses trade, provided they focus on the right commodities and data-driven markets.
Global Demand Trends for Grains & Pulses (2020–2025)
Recent reports from FAO, APEDA, and Trademap show that the demand for Indian grains and pulses is growing at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2% between 2020–2025.
Countries across the Middle East, Africa, North America, and Southeast Asia are diversifying their import sources, and India’s quality, quantity, and cost-competitiveness make it an attractive trade partner.
Top 13 Most Profitable Grains & Pulses for Export in 2025
Here’s a closer look at the most in-demand, high-margin grains and pulses Indian exporters should focus on in 2025. Each commodity offers unique export potential based on price, demand, logistics viability, and trade policy support.
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Basmati Rice
- Top Importers: Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE, USA
- Why it’s profitable: India dominates with more than 70% of global basmati trade. Strong aroma, long grain, and high margins.
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Wheat (Lokwan, Sharbati, Durum)
- Top Importers: Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan
- Opportunities: Government procurement helps farmers while exporters enjoy price stability.
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Maize (Corn)
- Top Importers: Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia
- Why it’s profitable: High usage in animal feed and starch manufacturing industries.
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Sorghum (Jowar)
- Top Importers: Nigeria, Sudan, Kenya
- Opportunity: Africa imports Indian sorghum for food and fodder. Highly drought-resistant.
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Millets (Bajra, Ragi, Foxtail)
- Top Importers: USA, Germany, UK, Japan
- Rising demand: Declared as the “International Year of Millets”, this group is booming due to health benefits.
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Chickpeas (Kabuli & Desi)
- Top Importers: Pakistan, UAE, Turkey, Algeria
- Why it’s profitable: High global demand for hummus, snacks, and vegan meals.
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Lentils (Masoor)
- Top Importers: Canada, Egypt, Bangladesh
- Health appeal: Rich in fiber and protein; a vegan staple
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Pigeon Peas (Tur/Arhar)
- Top Importers: Mozambique, Caribbean Islands, Kenya
- Strategic crop: Fast-growing trade with African nations
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Black Gram (Urad)
- Top Importers: Fiji, Sri Lanka, Mauritius
- Culinary uses: Key ingredient in idli/dosa mixes, gaining popularity abroad
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Green Gram (Moong)
- Top Importers: Vietnam, UAE, Malaysia
- Nutritional edge: High in protein and fiber, used in soups, salads
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Barley
- Top Importers: Iran, Saudi Arabia
- Dual-use: For beer manufacturing and livestock feed
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Amaranth Grain
- Top Importers: USA, Canada, Germany
- Why it’s hot: Superfood appeal; gluten-free; used in cereals and bars
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Horse Gram
- Top Importers: Niche vegan markets in North America and Europe
- Why it’s rising: Gaining momentum for its high protein and iron content
Top Grain & Pulse Importing Countries in 2025
Understanding the target export markets helps identify product fit and tailor pricing, packaging, and certifications.
| Country | Key Imports | Opportunities for Indian Exporters |
| UAE & Saudi Arabia | Basmati, Chickpeas | Established trade ties, strong demand from NRIs |
| USA & Canada | Millets, Moong, Amaranth | Vegan & gluten free product boom |
| UK & Germany | Pulses, Lentils, Millets | Clean label & high protein diets |
| Bangladesh & Nepal | Wheat, Rice, Lentils | Regional proximity + traditional preferences |
| African Nations | Sorghum, Maize, Pigeon Peas | Food security needs and free trade agreements |
Demand & Pricing Trends of Export Profitability (2022–2025)
| Commodity | 2022 Price | 2024-2025 Price | Growth (%) |
| Basmati Rice | ₹85/kg | ₹105/kg | +23% |
| Chickpeas | ₹60/kg | ₹78/kg | +30% |
| Millets | ₹35/kg | ₹58/kg | +65% |
| Sorghum | ₹28/kg | ₹42/kg | +50% |
| Moong | ₹55/kg | ₹74/kg | +34% |
Global Trade Agreements & Emerging Markets
Key developments that benefit agri exporters in 2025:
- India-UAE CEPA: Duty concessions for basmati rice and lentils
- APEDA’s push in African nations: Tur and sorghum exports rising
- Growing demand in Latin America for moong and pigeon peas
- SE Asia & Gulf: Expanding market access for maize, millets
Smart Tips to Maximize Profits from Agri Exports
To succeed in agri commodity export:
- Target high-growth markets with rising demand
- Get certifications (APEDA, FSSAI, HACCP, etc.)
- Partner with logistics & warehousing firms for safe storage
- Store produce in scientific warehouses to retain quality
- Track pricing trends and ship when markets peak
- Diversify your portfolio beyond just rice and wheat
- Target Countries with free trade agreements
How Staragri Helps Exporters Succeed in 2025
At Staragri, we empower exporters, farmers, FPOs, and agribusinesses to expand globally by ensuring quality, traceability, and compliance at every step.
- Post-harvest warehousing for safe storage
- Grading, sorting & packaging to match global specs
- Logistics & transportation for domestic + export shipments
- Assistance with documentation & compliance
Partner with Staragri, India’s trusted partner in agri warehousing and exports. Let us help you deliver excellence across borders.
Conclusion
The world is shifting towards sustainable, protein-rich food, and India is perfectly placed to lead with its diverse grains and pulses. With a sharp eye on global demand, access to accurate pricing trends, and reliable support from players like Staragri, exporters can thrive in 2025 and beyond.
Now is the time to turn your agri produce into global profit!
