Global cotton trade down as Chinese imports slump 65% in 2024-25: ICAC

World cotton lint production for 2025 is estimated at 25.4 million tonnes, nearly unchanged from the previous season, surpassing global consumption by 392,000 tonnes, according to the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC). Global trade fell 7.4 per cent to 9.1 million tonnes in 2024-25, mainly due to a 65 per cent decline in China’s imports, offsetting gains elsewhere.

Tariff escalations have reshaped trade flows and forecasts, with lingering impacts expected into coming seasons. For 2025-26, global cotton area is projected at 30.4 million hectares, with yields averaging 835 kg per hectare—slightly above the decade average. Consumption will continue to be led by China (32 per cent), followed by India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Turkiye, together accounting for 76 per cent of global use, the ICAC said in a press release.

Global cotton lint output for 2025 is estimated at 25.4 million tonnes, steady from last season and exceeding consumption by 392,000 tonnes, ICAC has said.
World trade fell 7.4 per cent to 9.1 million tonnes due to a sharp 65 per cent drop in Chinese imports.
For 2025-26, area and yields remain stable, while Cotlook A Index is forecast between 62–91 cents per pound, with a midpoint of 74 cents.

Additionally, in the 2025-26 season, the top cotton lint producers are estimated to remain the same as last season, with slight changes in their world market share.

ICAC forecasts the Cotlook A Index for 2025-26 in the range of 62–91 cents per pound, with a midpoint of 74 cents, based on current supply and demand conditions.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KD)