Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, have long been a staple in traditional diets across the Middle East, South Asia, and Mediterranean regions. However, their global appeal has significantly expanded in recent years, thanks to the surge in vegetarian and vegan lifestyles, growing awareness of the nutritional benefits of pulses, and the incorporation of chickpeas into a variety of innovative food products such as hummus, plant-based snacks, protein-rich flours, and ready-to-eat meals. As a rich source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, chickpeas are increasingly recognized for their role in promoting heart health, improving digestion, managing blood sugar levels, and supporting weight management benefits that align well with modern wellness trends. In terms of supply, major producers like India, Australia, Turkey, and Canada dominate the global chickpea landscape, contributing significantly to both domestic consumption and international trade. India leads the production chart, accounting for over 65% of the global output, while Australia and Canada play a pivotal role in exports, especially to regions like the Middle East, Europe, and North America. The market has also benefited from technological advancements in agricultural practices, improved seed varieties, and government support for pulse cultivation, particularly in emerging economies seeking food security and sustainable farming solutions. Moreover, climate-resilient characteristics of chickpeas being droug

ht-tolerant and adaptable to semi-arid conditions have made them an increasingly attractive crop in regions facing water scarcity and soil degradation. Additionally, chickpea-based products are gaining traction in retail shelves, foodservice channels, and online grocery platforms, with increasing emphasis on clean-label, gluten-free, and allergen-friendly options. The pandemic period also brought increased attention to non-perishable, shelf-stable foods like chickpeas, reinforcing their relevance in times of crisis and supply chain disruptions.According to the research report “Global Chickpea Market Outlook, 2030” published by Bonafide Research, the global Chickpea market is projected to reach market size of USD 10.57 Billion by 2030 increasing from USD 8.26 Billion in 2024, growing with 4.29% CAGR by 2025-30. Chickpeas offer a complete nutritional profile, including high protein content, dietary fiber, iron, and folate, which makes them an ideal meat substitute and functional ingredient in health foods. This aligns well with the broader trend of vegetarianism, veganism, and clean-label eating habits gaining momentum across the globe. Meanwhile, Turkey and Myanmar have also emerged as key players, especially in the desi chickpea segment. Government policies, subsidies, and international collaborations have further boosted chickpea production, making it an essential crop in many national agricultural strategies. A key development in the market is the increasing commerc

ialization of chickpea-based products. Beyond traditional uses, chickpeas are now being processed into gluten-free flour, plant-based milk, meat analogs, and snacks catering to both health-conscious consumers and those with dietary restrictions. Food brands and start-ups are investing in R&D to develop novel chickpea formulations that are both functional and flavorful. Additionally, the rise of organic farming and sustainable sourcing practices has introduced new value propositions for premium consumers in developed markets. Another influential factor is the growth of e-commerce and global distribution networks, which has made chickpea products more accessible to consumers in remote and urban areas alike. International trade has grown rapidly, supported by trade agreements and demand from food manufacturers, hotels, and institutional buyers. However, the market still faces challenges such as price volatility, climate change impacts on yield, and trade uncertainties due to geopolitical tensions.The Kabuli chickpeas type holds the largest share in the global chickpea market primarily due to its high consumer preference, attractive appearance, and versatility across multiple cuisines and food industries. Characterized by their larger size, creamy-white color, and smooth coat, Kabuli chickpeas are widely favored in international markets for their visual appeal and ease of cooking, making them a popular ingredient in ready-to-eat meals, canned foods, hummus, salads, soups, and sna

cks. One of the key drivers for Kabuli chickpeas’ dominance is their strong demand in export markets. Countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, Mexico, and Argentina have established themselves as major producers and exporters of Kabuli chickpeas, capitalizing on the growing global appetite for high-quality, aesthetically pleasing pulses. These nations leverage advanced agricultural practices, improved seed varieties, and favorable climatic conditions to produce large volumes of uniform, high-yield Kabuli chickpeas. Additionally, the global food processing industry, particularly producers of hummus and plant-based snacks, relies heavily on Kabuli chickpeas due to their superior texture and mild flavor. The increasing popularity of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern diets known for their health benefits and inclusion of chickpea-based dishes has also significantly contributed to Kabuli chickpeas’ market leadership. These dietary patterns have gained widespread adoption among health-conscious consumers worldwide, especially in urban areas, further strengthening the demand for Kabuli variants.Whole dried chickpeas represent the largest segment in the global chickpea market due to their long shelf life, cost-effectiveness, and widespread use in both household and industrial applications. This form of chickpeas is preferred across various regions for its versatility, easy storage, and suitability for diverse culinary uses. Unlike canned or processed forms, whole dried chi

ckpeas can be stored for extended periods without preservatives, making them ideal for bulk consumption, exports, and food security programs especially in countries where pulses are dietary staples. From a trade perspective, whole dried chickpeas are the most common format exported globally. Countries such as Australia, Canada, Turkey, and Mexico produce large quantities of dried chickpeas primarily the Kabuli variety for international markets. Whole dried chickpeas are easier to transport in bulk and are less perishable than processed or canned forms, making them ideal for long-distance shipping and long-term storage. Importers from the Middle East, Europe, and North America also prefer this format for its authenticity and flexibility in food manufacturing. Moreover, the food processing and hospitality sectors widely use whole dried chickpeas as a raw material for various applications such as hummus, falafel, flour, and roasted snacks. This type allows processors to control hydration, texture, and seasoning, making it a more adaptable input than pre-processed options. As global demand for plant-based and high-protein foods continues to rise, the use of whole dried chickpeas in health foods and meal kits has also increased, further strengthening their market position.The food & beverage application type is the largest segment in the global chickpea market primarily due to the widespread use of chickpeas in traditional cuisines, the growing demand for plant-based foods, and th

eir increasing incorporation into innovative food products. Chickpeas are a highly nutritious legume, rich in protein, fiber, iron, and essential vitamins, making them a valuable ingredient for health-conscious consumers worldwide. Their mild flavor, adaptability, and functional properties make them suitable for a wide array of food and beverage products, ranging from ethnic dishes to modern plant-based alternatives, driving their dominance in this segment. In traditional culinary markets such as South Asia, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean, chickpeas are deeply embedded in daily diets and food culture. They are commonly used in dishes like curries, stews, hummus, falafel, and salads. This strong culinary foundation ensures consistent demand from the food service and household sectors. However, what has truly propelled chickpeas into global prominence is the rapid rise of health trends and plant-based diets in developed economies such as the U.S., Canada, and countries in Europe. As consumers increasingly seek meat alternatives, clean-label foods, and allergen-free ingredients, chickpeas have emerged as a versatile, nutritious substitute that can be used in vegan burgers, dairy-free dips, and gluten-free baked goods. Chickpea flour (besan) is now widely used in gluten-free baking, while roasted chickpeas are marketed as healthy, high-protein snacks. Furthermore, chickpeas are being used to produce dairy substitutes such as chickpea milk, which cater to lactose-intoleran

t and vegan consumers. The B2B (business-to-business) channel type dominates the global chickpea market due to its critical role in supplying large volumes of chickpeas to food processors, manufacturers, foodservice industries, wholesalers, and institutional buyers. Unlike the B2C (business-to-consumer) segment, which caters to individual households, the B2B channel serves as the backbone of the commercial chickpea supply chain, facilitating bulk transactions and ensuring consistent, large-scale distribution across national and international markets. A key driver behind the dominance of the B2B segment is the high demand for chickpeas from food processing companies. These companies use chickpeas as a core ingredient in a wide range of products such as hummus, soups, ready-to-eat meals, canned pulses, baked snacks, and gluten-free flours. Chickpeas are also used in the production of plant-based protein powders, pasta, dairy alternatives, and meat substitutes segments that are experiencing rapid growth amid rising consumer preference for healthy and plant-based diets. These food manufacturers typically source chickpeas in bulk from exporters, producers, or aggregators through B2B contracts, making this channel essential for operational efficiency and supply continuity. In addition, chickpea exporters and agricultural cooperatives also function within the B2B ecosystem, selling large consignments of dried chickpeas (primarily Kabuli and desi types) to international buyers, impor

ters, and distributors. These transactions often involve long-term agreements and bulk shipments, supporting economies of scale and efficient logistics. Countries such as Australia, Canada, Mexico, and Turkey are major exporters that rely on B2B dealings to serve global markets, particularly in regions like Europe, North America, and the Middle East.