Market
Dried chickpea (gram) in Pakistan is a staple pulse with domestic production concentrated in Punjab and Balochistan but insufficient to meet consumption needs, leading to regular imports. Market access for imported consignments hinges on Department of Plant Protection (DPP) import permits and phytosanitary clearance.
Market RoleNet importer with domestic production shortfall
Domestic RoleStaple pulse for household consumption; domestic supply deficit is covered by imports
Market GrowthDeclining (recent fiscal years (reported as 2020–21 to 2024–25))declining cultivated area and domestic production in recent years
Risks
Sps Import Clearance HighA valid Department of Plant Protection (DPP) import permit and an acceptable phytosanitary certificate are prerequisites for clearance; non-compliance can result in detention, mandated treatment, or refusal to release the consignment.Confirm DPP import permit issuance before shipment, align documents (PS certificate, invoice, packing list, bill of lading/airway bill), and pre-agree any required treatments with the importer and inspection agent.
Import Dependence MediumDomestic gram production is reported below consumption requirements, so Pakistan relies on regular imports; disruptions in supplier availability or sudden international price shifts can tighten supply and raise local prices.Diversify origin options across multiple supplier countries and maintain contingency inventory aligned to peak demand periods.
Storage Pests MediumStored dried legumes are vulnerable to insect infestation (including bruchids/pulse beetles) and quality loss if moisture rises during storage or transit.Use dry, moisture-protected storage and apply appropriate pest-control and monitoring protocols (e.g., hygiene, controlled ventilation, and treatment where permitted/needed).
FAQ
Which documents are typically required to import dried chickpeas into Pakistan?Imports require a valid Department of Plant Protection (DPP) import permit and a phytosanitary certificate issued by the exporting country. DPP also lists commercial invoice, packing list, shipping document (bill of lading/airway bill), bill of entry, and any treatment certificate (if applicable) as part of the release order process; applications can be processed through Pakistan Single Window.
Why does Pakistan import chickpeas if it produces gram domestically?Reported national figures show domestic gram (chickpea) production below estimated consumption requirements, creating a supply gap that is covered through regular imports.
Which provinces are the main domestic producing regions for gram (chickpea) in Pakistan?Reported province-wise production shares indicate Punjab as the largest producer, followed by Balochistan, then Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.