In a survey of faba bean (Vicia faba) and field pea (Pisum sativum) fields in China’s Yunnan Province during March 2004, more than 5000 plant samples were collected from 35 locations and tested by tissue-blot immunoassay for the presence of up to 14 different viruses. Based on serological tests, the most important viruses affecting faba bean in the Yunnan province were Bean yellow mosaic virus and a nanovirus, which has not yet been identified. Beet western yellows virus was the most frequently found virus on field peas. Other viruses, such as Pea seedborne mosaic virus, Cucumber mosaic virus and Bean leafroll virus were detected at low incidence. The widespread occurrence of viruses in both pulse crops has the potential to cause serious yield losses. Faba bean and field pea farmers in Yunnan are currently using several insecticide sprays to avoid aphid feeding damage. The development of aphid–virus control packages with less insecticide usage and enhanced host plant resistance would improve profitability and sustainability of pulse cultivation in Yunnan.