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Peas and lentils: harvest in Canada is underway

August 26, 2026 at 4:50 PM , Der AUDITOR
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OTTAWA. The Canadian pea and lentil harvest has begun; so far, yields have mostly been in the average to slightly below-average range. Substantial carry-over stocks are putting a damper on prices for both pulses.

Pea harvest gets underway

The pea harvest has begun in Canada, although only limited information on yields and quality is available so far. Analysts expect average yields and lower overall production than last year, according to the experts at Rayglen Commodities. Based on Statistics Canada’s figures for acreage, production is expected to fall by around 30% for yellow peas and by around 26% for green peas, whilst the remaining varieties are likely to remain largely unchanged. Despite strong export demand, the substantial carry-over stocks of green peas and other varieties continue to ensure a comfortable supply situation.

Prices within a narrow range

The market is similar to last week’s, with the seasonal slowdown in demand continuing as the harvest begins. Prices for green peas remain stable, whilst the supply of yellow peas could be somewhat tighter given strong exports. Overall, prices are likely to continue to fluctuate within a narrow range for the time being during the harvest, as the market awaits a clearer picture of yields and quality. For maple peas, price trends vary depending on the variety and the market remains calm. In the coming weeks, greater clarity regarding the crop is expected, along with a possible upturn in demand from China and other buyers.

Lentil harvest is also progressing

The lentil harvest has begun in many growing regions, although, according to Rayglen Commodities, early yields are somewhat lower due to the dry spell in July and some disease pressure. Overall, yields so far are roughly in line with the average. Production of red lentils is expected to be higher than that of green lentils in 2026, which should support higher export volumes. Together with Australian production, output from Canada and Australia is estimated at around 4 million mt. Canada’s closing stocks are likely to fall compared with last year, with stocks of green lentils remaining relatively high, whilst the supply situation for red lentils is developing in a more balanced manner.

Prices remain under pressure

Canadian prices remain largely firm. Substantial carry-over stocks from the old crop, along with sales from the new crop, are keeping supplies comfortable for buyers and holding price rises in check despite slightly weaker yields. Discounts are already being offered for the 2025 crop, as buyers are focusing on the potentially higher-quality 2026 crop, particularly for small green lentils. Once the selling pressure from the current crop eases, a seasonal recovery could take place. However, the extent of this will depend largely on developments during the Indian sowing season; according to Rayglen Commodities, Australian production and the Indian monsoon remain key factors for the market’s future development.

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