The global chickpeas market size reached a volume of more than 14.08 million tons in 2024. During the forecast period between 2025 and 2034, the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 1.30%, reaching 16.02 million tons by 2034. As the demand for plant-based foods continues to rise, driven by increasing health awareness, dietary shifts, and environmental sustainability concerns, chickpeas have emerged as a key ingredient in both traditional and modern food applications. This versatile legume is valued not only for its high protein and fiber content but also for its role in supporting sustainable agricultural practices and food security across the globe.
Market Overview: A Growing Appetite for Chickpeas
Chickpeas, often referred to as "garbanzo beans," are an essential part of global cuisine, particularly in the Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and South Asian regions. However, as the world moves towards healthier, plant-based diets, the appeal of chickpeas is extending far beyond these traditional areas. Known for their nutritional benefits, chickpeas are now a staple in various products, from hummus to snacks, plant-based protein alternatives, and flour used in gluten-free baking.
Chickpeas are not just a dietary choice but also an agricultural commodity that supports local economies, especially in major production countries such as India, Australia, and Canada. With this expanding global interest, the chickpeas market is poised for steady growth, driven by multiple factors such as rising vegan and vegetarian populations, increasing consumer awareness about the benefits of plant-based proteins, and the expansion of chickpea-based products in retail and foodservice channels.
Regional Analysis: Global Production and Consumption Patterns
The chickpeas market is highly concentrated in a few regions, with Asia-Pacific accounting for the largest share of both production and consumption. India is the world's largest producer and consumer of chickpeas, followed by countries like Pakistan, Myanmar, and Australia. Together, these countries dominate the global supply of chickpeas. The Asia-Pacific region remains the key player, benefiting from both local consumption and export opportunities to markets across the world.
Asia-Pacific: India, as the primary producer and consumer, dominates this region. The country's large population, coupled with growing adoption of plant-based diets, ensures a high level of demand for chickpeas. Countries like Pakistan and Myanmar also contribute significantly to regional production, with growing export potential to neighboring countries.
North America: The U.S. and Canada are seeing increasing demand for chickpeas, particularly driven by the rise in popularity of plant-based protein sources. The growing trend of healthy eating, coupled with the introduction of new chickpea-based products in the market, positions North America as an emerging market for chickpeas.
Europe: While chickpeas are not native to Europe, there is rising consumer interest in Mediterranean diets, plant-based alternatives, and sustainable food choices. As a result, demand for chickpea-based products like hummus, chickpea flour, and snacks is growing rapidly in European countries.
Latin America: Although still in the early stages of chickpea consumption, countries like Argentina and Brazil are recognizing the benefits of chickpeas as a sustainable protein source, with the potential to boost production and consumption in the coming years.
Africa: In regions like the Horn of Africa, chickpeas are an essential part of the diet. The importance of chickpeas as a food security crop is rising, particularly in drought-prone areas where chickpeas can thrive in arid conditions.
Market Dynamics: Key Drivers of Growth
Several factors are contributing to the growth of the chickpeas market, with both supply and demand-side drivers playing a role in its future trajectory.
1. Rising Demand for Plant-Based Protein:
As consumers become more health-conscious and environmentally aware, there is a growing shift towards plant-based diets. This shift is particularly noticeable among vegetarians, vegans, and flexitarians. Chickpeas, rich in protein and fiber, provide an excellent alternative to animal-based proteins, fueling their demand across different food applications.
2. Dietary Shifts and Changing Consumer Preferences:
With more individuals adopting gluten-free, low-carb, and high-protein diets, chickpeas are becoming a popular ingredient. Chickpea flour, in particular, is gaining traction among health-conscious consumers and those with gluten sensitivities. The rise of ready-to-eat snacks like roasted chickpeas and chickpea chips also caters to on-the-go consumers seeking healthy snack options.
3. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Agricultural Practices:
Chickpeas are considered a sustainable crop because they require less water compared to other legumes and are nitrogen-fixing, which helps improve soil fertility. As sustainability becomes a key focus in food production, chickpeas offer a lower environmental footprint, making them an attractive choice for both producers and consumers who prioritize eco-friendly practices.
4. Increasing Application in Non-Food Products:
The growing use of chickpeas in non-food sectors such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications further boosts demand. Chickpea extract, for instance, is used in skin care products due to its antioxidant properties. In pharmaceuticals, chickpeas are utilized for their nutritional benefits, particularly in supplements targeting weight management and digestive health.
Competitive Landscape: Key Players in the Market
The global chickpeas market is highly competitive, with several large players involved in the production, processing, and distribution of chickpeas. Some of the key players in the market include:
Indigo Foods: A major player in the processing and distribution of chickpeas, known for its high-quality products and innovative offerings.
Cargill: With its vast supply chain capabilities, Cargill plays an essential role in the global chickpea market, focusing on both food and non-food applications.
Sunnyside Commodities: A prominent producer of chickpeas, focusing on premium-quality products and sustainable farming practices.
Tata Chemicals: Engaged in the production of chickpea flour and other chickpea-based products, catering to the growing demand for gluten-free and plant-based alternatives.
Australia’s Grain Producers: Australia is a major exporter of chickpeas, and several local companies dominate the Australian market, ensuring a strong presence in international trade.
These companies are focused on expanding their product portfolios, enhancing supply chain efficiency, and exploring new markets. Additionally, the rising trend of e-commerce platforms for grocery shopping has led many chickpea producers and retailers to enhance their online presence and reach a broader customer base.
Key Trends and Developments in the Market
Product Innovation: Chickpeas are being used in a variety of innovative products, such as chickpea protein isolates, plant-based meat alternatives, and snack foods. This diversification is key to attracting new consumer segments and expanding the market.
Sustainability in Farming: As sustainability gains importance, many chickpea farmers are adopting organic farming practices and using eco-friendly packaging to meet the demand for sustainable food options.
Rising Popularity of Chickpea-Based Snacks: Products like chickpea chips, roasted chickpeas, and hummus are becoming popular globally, particularly in the health-conscious consumer segment.
Strategic Partnerships and Mergers: Companies are increasingly entering into strategic alliances, mergers, and acquisitions to expand their product lines and strengthen market position. Collaborations with food startups focused on plant-based products are also on the rise.
