India’s cotton imports for the 2024/25 season are expected to double compared to the previous year, as production is anticipated to fall below consumption levels due to reduced acreage and unfavorable weather conditions, according to a prominent trade organization.
As the world’s second-largest cotton producer ramps up imports, it could help stabilize global prices, which recently hit their lowest levels in over four years after China, the top consumer, imposed tariffs on imports from the U.S.
The Cotton Association of India (CAI) reported that India may import 3 million bales in the current marketing year, which concludes on September 30, a significant increase from the 1.52 million bales imported last year.
From October to February, approximately 2.2 million bales of imported cotton arrived at Indian ports, as estimated by the CAI.
This year, India’s cotton production is projected to decline by 10% year-on-year to 29.53 million bales, while demand is expected to rise slightly to 31.5 million bales.
Consequently, the country’s exports are forecasted to drop to 1.7 million bales, down from 2.84 million bales last year, as per the CAI’s statement.
