The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) has conveyed its concerns to Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal through a letter, urging for an immediate halt in the import of lentils from Canada. This call for action comes against the backdrop of escalating diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
Brijesh Goyal, the Chairman of CTI, expressed his apprehension regarding Canada emerging as a focal point for Khalistani terrorists who openly display anti-India posters. In addition, he criticized Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for making baseless allegations against India. Goyal underscored the importance of India responding economically to such provocations.
India holds the distinction of being one of the world's largest consumers of lentils, with an annual consumption rate of approximately 23 lakh tonnes. Despite domestic production accounting for roughly 15-16 lakh tonnes, India heavily relies on imports to meet its substantial demand.
Notably, in the fiscal year 2022-23, India imported a substantial quantity of 485,000 tonnes of lentils from Canada, valued at 37 million dollars.
Brijesh Goyal recommended that the Indian government explore diversifying its sources for lentil imports. One suggestion involves reducing import duties on lentils from other nations, with a particular focus on the United States, where a 30 percent duty currently applies.
Additionally, Goyal highlighted the potential for expanding lentil imports from countries such as Russia, Singapore, and Turkey.
