Cotton Imports Expected to Rise Due to Weak Domestic Output

11-Apr-2025 06:09 PM

New Delhi: Cotton imports in India are projected to rise sharply to 33 lakh bales (1 bale = 170 kg) during the 2024-25 marketing season (October–September), more than double the 15.20 lakh bales imported in 2023-24.

The Cotton Association of India (CAI) initially estimated imports at 30 lakh bales but has now raised the forecast by 3 lakh bales.

This spike is driven by lower domestic production, despite stable consumption. CAI has revised the production estimate down to 291.30 lakh bales, 4 lakh less than last month’s figure. In contrast, the government’s estimate has been slightly raised to 294.27 lakh bales.

By the end of March 2025, about 25 lakh bales had already been imported, and 306.83 lakh bales had reached domestic markets—including imported cotton and old stock.

Domestic consumption is expected to remain steady at 315 lakh bales, with 170 lakh bales consumed by March. Only 9 lakh bales were exported during this period.

At the end of March, India held 127.83 lakh bales in stock, out of which 100.83 lakh bales were with CCI, Maharashtra Federation, and traders, while 27 lakh bales were held by textile mills.

Total cotton exports for the full season are estimated at 16 lakh bales, significantly lower than the 28.36 lakh bales exported in 2023-24. By the season’s close, an estimated 23.49 lakh bales of stock may remain in the country.