Global Chickpeas Market Size By Type (Kabuli Chickpeas, Desi Chickpeas), By Application (Supplier, Distributers), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2023 to 2032

The Global Chickpeas Market was valued at USD 14.2 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 21.6 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 5.5% during the forecast period of 2023 to 2031. The market's expansion is primarily driven by the rising global demand for plant-based proteins, increasing health awareness, and expanding applications in vegan and vegetarian diets. Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are increasingly being used in processed foods, snacks, flour blends, and ready-to-eat meals due to their high protein and fiber content, appealing to a health-conscious consumer base.

Drivers:

1. Rising Demand for Plant-Based Protein:

Chickpeas serve as a major plant-based protein source for vegetarians and vegans worldwide. With a growing population shifting towards sustainable and meat-free diets, the demand for high-protein legumes like chickpeas is significantly increasing.

2. Expanding Use in Processed and Functional Foods:

Food manufacturers are incorporating chickpeas into protein bars, baked goods, pasta, and flour to meet the demand for nutritious alternatives. The rise of chickpea-based products like hummus and snacks is also boosting market growth.

3. Increasing Awareness of Nutritional Benefits:

Chickpeas are rich in fiber, folate, iron, and complex carbohydrates. Their ability to regulate blood sugar and improve digestion is increasingly recognized, prompting their inclusion in diabetic-friendly and heart-healthy diets.

Restraints:

1. Climate Sensitivity and Agricultural Constraints:

Chickpea production is highly sensitive to climatic conditions such as drought and frost. Unpredictable weather patterns can reduce crop yield, creating supply chain disruptions and price volatility.

2. Limited Shelf Life of Fresh Chickpeas:

While dried chickpeas have long shelf life, fresh or cooked variants have a limited usage period and require careful handling and storage. This restricts expansion in regions lacking cold storage and logistics infrastructure.

Opportunity:

1. Emerging Markets in Asia-Pacific and Africa:

Countries like India, China, and Ethiopia offer immense growth potential due to increasing domestic consumption, government support for pulses cultivation, and expanding exports. These regions also benefit from traditional culinary applications of chickpeas.

2. Innovation in Chickpea-Based Product Lines:

There is a growing opportunity for companies to introduce value-added products like chickpea pasta, gluten-free baked goods, and dairy-free chickpea milk. Innovations tailored to specific dietary needs (e.g., keto, gluten-free) are gaining market traction.

Market by System Type Insights:

Based on system type, Desi Chickpeas dominated the market in 2023. These smaller, darker chickpeas are popular in South Asia and parts of Africa for their nutty flavor and higher fiber content. They are primarily consumed in split or flour form. However, Kabuli Chickpeas, which are larger and lighter in color, are gaining popularity in Western cuisines and ready-to-eat applications like salads and hummus, and are expected to witness a robust growth rate.

Market by End-use Insights:

The Food & Beverage segment accounted for the largest market share in 2023. The use of chickpeas in ready meals, snacks, and plant-based protein formulations is surging. The Nutraceuticals segment is also expected to grow significantly, supported by chickpeas' use in functional foods and dietary supplements targeting gut health and chronic disease prevention.

Market by Regional Insights:

Asia-Pacific led the global chickpeas market in 2023, driven by India’s dominant position as both a top producer and consumer. The region benefits from high pulse consumption per capita and government support for pulse cultivation. North America and Europe are rapidly emerging as key markets due to the rise of plant-based and Mediterranean diets. Meanwhile, Latin America is projected to show strong growth, especially in countries like Mexico and Argentina, with increasing export opportunities and favorable climatic conditions.

Competitive Scenario:

Major players in the Global Chickpeas Market include Archer Daniels Midland Company, AGT Food and Ingredients, Olam International, Globeways Canada Inc., Cargill, Incorporated, Dunar Foods Ltd., and Wimmera Grain Company. These companies are expanding their production capacities, investing in sustainable sourcing, and launching innovative chickpea-based products to strengthen their market position.

In 2024, Olam International partnered with Indian agritech startups to enhance chickpea sourcing through AI-powered crop monitoring.

AGT Food launched a chickpea protein concentrate in 2023, aimed at the sports nutrition and functional food markets.

ADM expanded its processing capacity in Turkey and Egypt in 2025, targeting growing demand in the Middle East and Africa.

Scope of Work – Global Chickpeas Market

Key Market Developments:

2023 – ADM unveiled its chickpea flour under a clean-label portfolio targeting gluten-free baking products.

2024 – Globeways Canada Inc. began exporting pre-cooked chickpeas to European retail chains under private labels.

2025 – AGT Food invested USD 60 million in new processing plants in South America to boost chickpea flour and protein production for the global snack market.

FAQs:

1) What is the current market size of the Global Chickpeas Market?

The market was valued at USD 14.2 billion in 2023.

2) What is the major growth driver of the Global Chickpeas Market?

The major driver is the increasing demand for plant-based protein and healthy food products.

3) Which is the largest region during the forecast period in the Global Chickpeas Market?

Asia-Pacific holds the largest share, led by India’s production and consumption dominance.

4) Which segment accounted for the largest market share in Global Chickpeas Market?

The Food & Beverage segment accounted for the largest share in 2023.

5) Who are the key market players in the Global Chickpeas Market?

Key players include ADM, AGT Food and Ingredients, Olam International, Cargill, and Globeways Canada Inc.