Centre green-lights import of pulses from Mozambique

The Cabinet has approved a long-term contract for import of pulses from Mozambique, which is expected to double annual inflows from the country to 2 lakh tonnes over the next five years. The imports will help India meet part of its domestic shortfall and stabilise prices.

The memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed with Mozambique provides for import of pulses either through private channels or government-to-government sales through State agencies nominated by the two countries, an official release said.

“The MoU aims at promoting the production of pigeon pea or tur and other pulses in Mozambique by encouraging progressive increase in the trading of these pulses,” the release added. The MoU includes targets for exports of tur and other pulses from Mozambique to India for five financial years and aims at doubling the trade from 100,000 tonnes in 2016-17 to 200,000 tonnes in 2020-21.

The signing of this MoU with Mozambique may also lead to similar arrangements with other countries.

India buys tur and green gram from Myanmar and Mozambique, chickpea from Australia and Russia, and yellow peas and lentils from Canada.

Source: - Thehindubusinessline.com