Global Cotton Trade Expected to Reach 10.3 Million Tonnes by 2028/29
The International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) forecasts that global cotton trade will grow from 9.4 million tonnes in the 2025/26 season to approximately 10.3 million tonnes by 2028/29, despite supply-side challenges and geopolitical uncertainties. Production is expected to decline slightly in the coming seasons while consumption remains stable, narrowing the gap between supply and demand. This trend highlights the growing importance of exporter inventories in meeting global needs. Brazil will remain a top cotton lint exporter due to strong harvests and competitive pricing, while U.S. exports are projected to recover after a dip in 2025/26. China's increased imports reflect recovering domestic demand for textiles and apparel, which could further boost world trade. However, the ICAC warns of risks such as shifting tariffs, high energy costs, logistical disruptions like those at the Strait of Hormuz, and evolving policy measures that may affect global cotton flows.
Topics: global cotton trade regional exports supply and demand trends