Import Yellow Peas Duty-Free Till March 2026 What Traders Should Know

Intro
The yellow peas import policy extension has been officially announced. As per the DGFT Notification No. 05/2025-26 dated 31 May 2025, the Central Government has extended the “Free” import policy for yellow peas (HS Code: 07131010) up to 31 March 2026. This extension holds significance for importers, traders, and domestic processors affected by seasonal price volatility in pulses.


What the DGFT Notification Says

  • Notification Issued: 31 May 2025
  • Authority: DGFT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry
  • Reference: Notification No. 05/2025-26
  • HS Code: 07131010 – Yellow Peas
  • Policy Status: Import remains Free
  • Valid Until: 31 March 2026 (inclusive)

📎 View official notification here (dgft.gov.in)


Why Is This Extension Important?

  • Controls Price Rise: Helps manage inflation in domestic dal prices
  • Boosts Supply: Prevents seasonal shortages in processed pulses
  • Supports Small Traders: Avoids quota-based restrictions or high tariffs
  • Reduces Black Marketing: Transparent policy helps avoid grey-market imports

Import Procedure Simplified

Importers can continue bringing yellow peas under the “Free” category until 31 March 2026. Here’s a simple breakdown:

StepProcess
1.Register with DGFT as an importer (IEC code required)
2.No quota or license needed till March 2026
3.Comply with FSSAI, Customs, and Plant Quarantine norms
4.File Bill of Entry and pay applicable import duties
5.Maintain records for audit and GST credit claims

Legal References

  • Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992 – Empowers DGFT to set trade policies
  • Customs Tariff Act, 1975 – Determines applicable duties
  • FSSAI Act, 2006 – Mandates safety compliance for edible imports
  • CBIC Notifications – Define import duty structures

Expert Tip: Price Hedging for Importers

“With prices fluctuating due to global output and Ukraine-Russia tension, importers should consider forward contracts or warehouse stocking strategies to manage cost risks.”
Pulse Import Consultant, Navi Mumbai


Implications for Indian Market

  • Traders: More flexibility and planning time
  • Processors: Improved availability of raw material
  • Consumers: Likely price stability in chana dal substitutes
  • Govt: Eases pressure on domestic production and food inflation control

Subheading with Keyphrase: Yellow Peas Import Policy Explained

Here’s how the extended policy differs from older restrictions:

Policy YearStatusConditions
2019–2021RestrictedQuota-based, limited to ~1.5L MT
2022–2023Free (limited period)Relaxed temporarily
Apr 2024–Mar 2025FreeVia Notification 49/2023-24
Apr 2025–Mar 2026FreeExtended via Notification 05/2025-26

FAQ (for SEO)

Q1. Is import of yellow peas allowed in 2025-26?
Yes, yellow peas can be freely imported till 31 March 2026 as per DGFT Notification No. 05/2025-26.

Q2. Do I need a license or quota for importing yellow peas now?
No. There is no quota or license requirement under the current “Free” import policy.

Q3. Will this affect chana (gram) prices in India?
Possibly. Cheaper imported yellow peas may reduce demand pressure on domestic chana, helping price stability.

Q4. Where can I check the official notification?
You can visit DGFT Notification Page for the full circular.


Summary

Yellow peas import policy extended till 31 March 2026. DGFT allows free imports under HS Code 07131010, aiding traders and pulse prices.

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