Introduction – Malaysia’s Chickpeas Market by the Numbers
Let’s talk chickpeas — or as they’re also known, “kacang kuda” in Malaysia. While Malaysia isn’t a household name in chickpea farming, it still plays a unique role in the global trade network.
In recent years, Malaysia’s involvement in chickpea exports has seen a rollercoaster ride. Back in 2019, it held a 1.5% share in global chickpeas exports, ranking as the 23rd largest exporter. That number has since plummeted to just 0.01% in 2023, dropping Malaysia to 40th place globally. But don’t count Malaysia out just yet.
Despite limited domestic production, the country recorded $8.3 million in chickpeas sales value in 2024, representing a 41% growth from the previous year. And when we peek into its export destinations, names like Singapore, Indonesia, UAE, Brunei, and even Uganda pop up.
So what does this mean for businesses looking to source chickpeas from Malaysia? It means opportunity — if you know where to look and who to trust. That’s why diving into verified supplier data, especially with help from platforms like Freshdi, can give you the edge in making smarter sourcing decisions.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Current Demand Data
Here’s something important to know: Malaysia is not a major producer of chickpeas. Instead, it’s a solid importer and a smart re-exporter.
In 2023:
- Imports hit 5.67 million kg, a 10.06% increase from the previous year.
- Exports were 151,014 kg, worth around $223,860 — a 35.49% jump year-on-year.
- The trade deficit? A whopping $4.79 million.
So where are all these chickpeas going after arriving in Malaysia?
Top Export Destinations (2023)
- Singapore – $86,910 (69,946 kg)
- Indonesia – $60,350 (46,443 kg)
- Brunei – $50,740 (26,675 kg)
- UAE – $23,990 (4,800 kg)
- Uganda – $1,870 (3,150 kg)
These numbers tell a story: Malaysia is a strategic hub, especially for ASEAN and Middle Eastern markets.
Platforms like Freshdi also reflect this demand. On Freshdi, RFQs (Request For Quotes) for chickpeas have risen steadily, particularly for Kabuli and Desi varieties. These RFQ trends align with the growing interest in chickpea-based protein products, snack foods, and flours.
Top 10 Verified Chickpeas Suppliers in Malaysia – Leading Exporters by Volume
Ready to meet the players? Let’s break down the top 10 chickpea suppliers in Malaysia as of July 2025, based on export performance, global reach, certifications, and buyer ratings on Freshdi.
- SCS FOOD MANUFACTURING SDN. BHD.
- Known for high-quality 25kg chickpeas bags
- Strong distribution in Singapore and Indonesia
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HACCP and Halal certified
- Specializes in bulk Desi chickpeas
- Reliable shipping timelines
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Popular among Middle Eastern clients
- Focuses on B2B re-exports
- Competitive pricing strategies
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Strong reviews for packaging quality
- Premium Kabuli chickpeas supplier
- Known for food service supply chains
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Offers white-label packaging
- Reliable exporter with over 10 years in trade
- Noted for strict compliance with export documentation
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Ships to Brunei and UAE regularly
- Specializes in chickpeas flour and split chickpeas
- Focused on the plant-based food sector
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Partners with local protein processors
- Offers both raw and processed chickpeas
- Strong presence on e-commerce platforms
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Supplies to institutional buyers
- Trusted for quick response to RFQs
- Supplies chickpeas for both retail and industrial use
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Focused on eco-friendly packaging
- Handles export logistics in-house
- Provides freshness-guaranteed shipments
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Preferred by UAE importers
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- Offers chickpeas in multiple grades
- Partners with Malaysian food processors
- Certified for ISO and Halal compliance
Dynamic Ranking Note
Supplier rankings may shift monthly based on real-time trade data, buyer reviews, and RFQ activity. Platforms like Freshdi regularly update “Suppliers of the Month” and Top Traders by Region, helping you stay ahead of the curve.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Pricing Analysis & Export Dynamics
Let’s talk money.
Price Trends (2023–2025):
- Average wholesale price: $0.75–$1.09/kg
- Export prices dipped in 2019 but rebounded by 2023, with 151,014 kg exported at $223.86k.
Seasonal Dynamics:
Chickpea prices in Malaysia often peak during:
– Q1 (Jan–Mar): Due to festival demand and supply fluctuations in India.
– Q3 (Jul–Sep): When Ramadan and export orders from Middle East spike.
Desi vs. Kabuli – What’s Trending?
- Desi Chickpeas: Smaller, darker, and more common in Indian cuisine. Malaysia imports mostly Desi from India.
- Kabuli Chickpeas: Larger, cream-colored, popular for hummus and salads. Growing demand in Malaysia’s urban and health-conscious sectors.
Freshdi’s RFQ data shows Kabuli demand growing 22% year-over-year, especially from food processors and vegan snack producers.
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Strategic Sourcing
Let’s wrap this up with some perspective.
Malaysia may not be a chickpea farming powerhouse, but it’s making strategic moves as a trade and processing hub. With steady import growth, a $8.3M domestic market, and export connections across ASEAN and the Middle East, it holds real potential for savvy buyers.
But here’s the kicker: sourcing smartly means picking the right verified suppliers, watching price trends, and aligning with seasonal timing. That’s where tools like Freshdi shine — offering market intelligence, supplier rankings, and RFQ analytics that help you source like a pro.
✅ Buyer’s Checklist: Sourcing Chickpeas from Malaysia
- [ ] Check supplier certifications (Halal, HACCP, ISO)
- [ ] Use Freshdi to verify supplier export volumes & reviews
- [ ] Compare Desi vs Kabuli options based on end-use
- [ ] Monitor seasonal price fluctuations
- [ ] Align RFQ timing with high-supply seasons (Apr–Jun, Oct–Dec)
🔮 Future Outlook for Malaysia’s Chickpeas Trade
- Chickpea protein demand will continue rising, driven by plant-based trends.
- Malaysia likely to enhance processing capacity for exports.
- Trade partnerships with India and Australia will remain key.
- Buyers can expect more competitive pricing as re-export capabilities mature.
With platforms like Freshdi, buyers can navigate real-time data, connect with verified suppliers, and reduce sourcing risks.
References
- IndexBox – Malaysia Chickpeas Market
- Selina Wamucii – Malaysia Chickpeas Price
- World Bank – Malaysia Chickpeas Export Data
- Tridge – Chickpeas in Malaysia
- OEC – Malaysia Chickpeas Trade Profile
- Freshdi – Malaysia Suppliers
- FMI – ASEAN Chickpea Protein Market
- Mobility Foresights – Malaysia Chickpea Protein Powder Market
- Expert Market Research – Chickpeas Market
FAQs
1. Why is Malaysia a key player in chickpeas trade despite low production?
Malaysia acts as a strategic hub for re-exports, especially to nearby ASEAN countries and the Middle East.
2. Which variety of chickpeas is most popular in Malaysia?
Desi chickpeas dominate imports, but Kabuli chickpeas are gaining popularity due to plant-based food trends.
3. When is the best time to source chickpeas from Malaysia?
April–June and October–December are ideal due to stable prices and higher availability.
4. How can I verify a chickpea supplier in Malaysia?
Use Freshdi to check export performance data, buyer reviews, and certifications.
5. What’s driving the demand for chickpeas in Malaysia?
Health-conscious consumers, growth in plant-based diets, and expansion of chickpea protein processing facilities.
