Black Gram Market - Global Forecast 2026-2032

The Black Gram Market size was estimated at USD 5.41 billion in 2025 and expected to reach USD 5.62 billion in 2026, at a CAGR of 4.43% to reach USD 7.33 billion by 2032.

The pulse known as black gram, or urad dal, stands out for its dense nutritional profile rich in proteins, dietary fiber, and essential minerals, establishing it as a staple in both traditional cuisines and modern functional food applications. Its agronomic versatility enables cultivation across diverse climatic conditions, reinforcing its status as a reliable rotation crop that enhances soil health. As consumer interest in plant-based diets continues to rise, the functional attributes of black gram-ranging from its amino acid composition to its textural utility in product formulations-have garnered renewed attention beyond conventional markets.

In recent years, the landscape surrounding black gram has been reshaped by a confluence of drivers, including evolving dietary preferences toward health-conscious and flexitarian consumption patterns, policy frameworks that incentivize pulse cultivation, and expanding interest in sustainable protein sources. These elements have collectively elevated black gram from a regional staple to a global ingredient of interest, with stakeholders across the value chain exploring new product formats and fortification strategies.

Nonetheless, the global pulses market has experienced periods of volatility, driven by policy decisions and production fluctuations in major producing regions. For example, shifts in import regulations by large consuming nations and record harvests in key origins have created nuanced pricing environments and underscored the importance of resilient supply chain design and adaptive distribution networks.

The black gram sector is witnessing a wave of innovation propelled by shifting consumer demands, advanced cultivation practices, and emerging processing technologies. Heightened awareness of plant-based proteins has prompted food manufacturers to integrate black gram into fortified and specialty products, leveraging its high protein and fiber content to meet evolving health trends. In parallel, changing food habits and urbanization have encouraged investment in value-added formats, including pulse-based flours and ready-to-eat meals, catering to convenience-oriented consumers while preserving nutritional quality.

On the agronomic front, precision farming methodologies and seed improvements are enhancing yield stability and disease resistance. Advanced agritech solutions-such as remote sensing for crop monitoring, AI-driven predictive analytics for yield forecasts, and integrated pest management systems-are being adopted to mitigate environmental impact and optimize resource utilization. These approaches are fostering more reliable production cycles and supporting sustainable cultivation pathways that align with broader environmental objectives.

Concurrently, distribution channels are evolving through the rise of digital marketplaces and direct-to-consumer platforms. These channels are democratizing access by enabling producers and processors to engage end users with greater transparency, affordable pricing models, and tailored promotional strategies. Enhanced logistics capabilities, including cold-chain innovations and real-time inventory management, are further ensuring product freshness and supply continuity, thus reinforcing the role of black gram within modern retail ecosystems.

The implementation of revised U.S. import tariffs in 2025 has introduced a layer of complexity for black gram trade flows into North America. Importers have encountered compressed margins as duties are translated into higher landed costs, prompting distributors to reassess sourcing strategies and negotiate preferential terms. In response, some supply chain participants have diversified procurement sources, exploring alternative origins and bolstering domestic pulse programs to alleviate exposure to elevated import levies.

Moreover, U.S.-based food companies have been compelled to develop contingency plans for ingredient sourcing, acknowledging that tariff uncertainties can inflate operational costs and disrupt supply projections. As noted by industry analysts, the anticipation of additional levies has already driven food processors to evaluate alternative legume inputs and strengthen relationships with local growers, thereby building buffer capacity against potential price spikes and inventory constraints.

These tariff measures have also stimulated advocacy efforts within industry associations aimed at revising duty structures and securing exemptions for value-added pulse products. At the same time, premium segments-such as certified organic, fortified, and convenience-focused offerings-have maintained pricing power, as health-conscious consumers exhibit willingness to absorb incremental cost increases for differentiated credentials and product convenience.

A comprehensive assessment of black gram market dynamics necessitates a clear understanding of its segmentation across multiple strategic dimensions. In terms of product type, the marketplace encompasses fortified formulations that enhance nutritional density alongside skinned, split, and whole variants, each delivering distinct processing characteristics and end-user functionalities.

When viewed through an application lens, black gram serves dual roles within feed and food sectors. Within the food category, its utility spans direct consumption formats-such as the traditional South Asian preparations of Idli and Dosa and whole dal preparations-and industrial processing pathways that yield flours, pastes, and ready-to-eat consumer products designed for convenience and extended shelf stability.

Distribution channels further delineate market reach, with offline avenues including convenience stores, specialty retailers, and large-format supermarkets and hypermarkets, complemented by online outlets that range from direct-to-consumer subscription models to broad-based e-commerce platforms facilitating nationwide and cross-border fulfillment.

Finally, the physical form of black gram products-whether powdered, raw, or roasted-shapes both processing requirements and consumer usage occasions, allowing manufacturers to innovate across packaging formats and cooking applications to capture diverse taste and texture preferences.

Regional dynamics play a pivotal role in shaping black gram trade patterns and consumption trends. In the Americas, demand is anchored by both direct procurement channels and strategic inventory hubs in the United States, where pulse distributors leverage advanced warehousing infrastructures to serve foodservice and retail customers with rapid replenishment cycles. Meanwhile, Canadian and Mexican markets are experiencing gradual integration into North American supply networks through cross-border trade agreements that facilitate tariff concessions and logistical efficiencies.

Across Europe, the Middle East & Africa, pulse consumption is characterized by a blend of import-driven supply models and growing interest in localized processing. European food manufacturers are increasingly sourcing black gram for specialty ingredients in snacks and bakery applications, whereas Middle Eastern markets are drawing on black gram’s culinary heritage to support rising demand for traditional and fusion cuisines. In Africa, emerging processing facilities are beginning to address both domestic and export markets, anchoring black gram within broader strategies for food security and value-added agribusiness expansion.

In the Asia-Pacific region, India’s long-standing dominance as both a major producer and consumer underscores the foundational role of black gram within regional agricultural systems. Significant cultivation across rice-fallow landscapes, coupled with proactive government initiatives on minimum support pricing and research into high-yield cultivars, continues to drive stable output. Beyond the subcontinent, growing health consciousness in markets such as Australia, Japan, and Southeast Asia is fostering novel product innovations and expanding consumption channels for black gram–based ingredients.

Leading agribusiness firms are deploying a spectrum of strategic initiatives to fortify their presence in the black gram market. Research and development efforts are focused on breeding pulse varieties with improved disease resistance and enhanced processing adaptability, while collaborations with local farming communities underpin contract farming models that ensure consistent quality and traceability.

Simultaneously, key players are embracing digital transformation across the value chain. Blockchain-enabled provenance systems and AI-driven yield forecasting tools are being integrated into supply chain operations to bolster transparency, reduce waste, and optimize logistics. These technological investments are complemented by targeted marketing campaigns designed to raise consumer awareness of pulses’ nutritional and environmental benefits.

In parallel, strategic alliances-ranging from cross-border joint ventures to mergers and acquisitions-are enabling companies to expand geographic reach and leverage complementary capabilities. Major multinational enterprises such as Olam International Ltd Adani Wilmar Ltd AGT Food and Ingredients Inc Archer Daniels Midland Company and Cargill, Incorporated are exemplifying this trend by aligning corporate sustainability agendas with scalable pulse sourcing strategies.

Industry leaders should prioritize the deployment of resilient supply chain frameworks that incorporate diversified sourcing strategies and buffer capacities. Establishing partnerships with multiple origin countries and nurturing domestic pulse programs can mitigate the impacts of policy fluctuations and climate-driven production variability. These strategies lay the groundwork for stable procurement and cost management.

Simultaneously, investment in product innovation-such as the development of fortified black gram flours, protein concentrates, and convenient ready-to-eat offerings-will enable organizations to capture value within premium segments. By harnessing consumer insights and leveraging culinary partnerships, companies can differentiate their portfolios through tailored formulations that align with emerging health and wellness trends.

Moreover, deepening engagement with digital channels and traceability platforms will enhance consumer trust and streamline market entry. Incorporating blockchain-based provenance systems and real-time supply chain analytics can provide end-to-end visibility, support quality assurance, and facilitate compliance with evolving regulatory standards.

Finally, proactive policy dialogue is essential. Industry stakeholders should align with trade associations to advocate for balanced tariff structures and targeted subsidy programs that support sustainable pulse cultivation. Such collaborative efforts can foster a conducive business environment and strengthen the long-term viability of black gram value chains.

Our research methodology integrates a rigorous combination of primary and secondary research techniques to deliver comprehensive market insights. Initially, a thorough review of publicly available industry reports, academic publications, trade data, and regulatory filings established a foundational understanding of black gram market structures and historical trends.

Concurrently, qualitative interviews were conducted with stakeholders across the value chain-including farmers, processors, distributors, and end-user manufacturers-to capture first-hand perspectives on emerging challenges, innovation trajectories, and strategic imperatives. These inputs enriched analytic rigor and validated key market drivers.

Quantitative data collection was facilitated through structured surveys targeting procurement and product development professionals to map segmentation dimensions, assess product type preferences, and gauge channel-level performance indicators. Advanced statistical techniques were applied to reconcile disparate data sets, ensuring consistency and reliability through triangulation.

Finally, our analytical framework employed comparative analysis tools and scenario-based modeling to interpret the implications of policy shifts, technological adoption, and consumption trends. This multi-tiered approach yields nuanced, actionable insights tailored to inform strategic decision-making across the black gram market.

In summary, black gram has transcended its traditional role to emerge as a vital component of modern nutrition and agribusiness strategies. Supported by robust nutritional credentials and bolstered by technological and policy-driven advancements, the pulse is gaining traction across diverse product applications and geographies.

Nevertheless, industry participants must remain vigilant in navigating policy landscapes-particularly trade tariffs-and supply chain vulnerabilities. The capacity to adapt through diversified sourcing, digital integration, and proactive stakeholder engagement will distinguish market leaders from followers.

Looking forward, the confluence of consumer demand for health-oriented ingredients, environmental sustainability imperatives, and value-added innovation will continue to shape the black gram sector. Organizations that harness data-driven insights and cultivate strategic partnerships will be best positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities and drive long-term growth within this dynamic market.

Are you ready to leverage comprehensive insights and gain a competitive edge in the global black gram arena Connect today with Ketan Rohom Associate Director Sales & Marketing to explore how our research can empower your strategic decisions and unlock new growth trajectories Secure your copy of the full market analysis report now and position your organization for long-term success