Chana (gram) prices are likely to rise by around 7% from April on account of lower crop output by 10% due to adverse weather conditions, apex body of pulses and grains industry said here.
"Output of chana will be lower this year by about 10% as the crop was affected by adverse weather conditions in the main producing states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Rajasthan," India Pulses and Grains Association president Pravin Dongre told reporters here.
Production last year was about 8.2 million tonne, according to the government data. This will put pressure on prices, which is likely to see upward movement from April, he said.
"Lower output will put pressure on chana prices, which may go up by 5-7% from April onwards," he said.
Similarly, the overall pulses production is also likely to dip by about 1 million tonne to 17 million tonne compared to 18 million tonne last year, he said.
On imports till March this year, Dongre said they were likely to be similar or a little higher than last year's 2.6 million tonnes.
"The rupee fall has impacted the imports slightly. However, it is going to catch up in the remaining period," he added.
Observing that imports for year 2012-13 are likely to be higher by 5-7% due to estimated lower production in overall pulses, Dongre said,"To bridge the demand-supply gap imports will go up mainly from countries like Australia, Canada, Myanmar and Africa".
Meanwhile, the association announced the first three-day 'Global Pulses Conclave 2012' for the world pulses industry and trade, which will begin from February 15. The event is supported by the food and public distribution department of consumer affairs ministry.
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