Canada’s agricultural scene, particularly the lentil sector, saw notable changes in 2023. 

Lentil production decreased from 2.3 million tonnes in the previous year to nearly 1.7 million tonnes in 2023, continuing fluctuating yields significantly impacted by less favourable growing conditions in Western Canada.  

This decrease starkly contrasted the record-setting year 2016, which boasted the highest production since records began in 1981. 

On the brighter side, Canadian lentil exports surged, reaching nearly 2.0 million tonnes valued at approximately $2.3 billion, up from the previous year. This export increase underscores Canada’s significant role in the global lentil market.  India remains the top recipient of Canadian lentils, followed by Türkiye, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States.

The industry also witnessed a notable uptick in financial performance. Farmers enjoyed higher cash receipts totalling nearly $1.7 billion for lentils in 2023, with December seeing the highest farm gate price of the year at $989.29 per tonne. This financial boost reflects the increasing market value of lentils and the strategic positioning of Canadian producers. 

Optimism is evident among Canada’s lentil farmers. The projected planting area for 2024 is set at 3.7 million acres, indicating a hopeful increase in production. Saskatchewan will expand its seeded area and continue as the predominant lentil-growing province, contributing significantly to the national and international supply.