Cotton Imports Surge in India and China, Boosting Global Trade Outlook
India and China are expected to play a pivotal role in reviving global cotton trade during the 2026/27 season, according to the latest outlook from the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC).
India has emerged as a major driver of global cotton demand, with cotton lint imports projected to reach around 1 million tonnes in the 2025/26 season. This represents a 42% increase over the previous season and marks the highest import level ever recorded by the country.
The sharp rise in imports has been supported by government measures, including temporary reductions in import duties and exemptions on extra-long staple cotton, which have improved access to imported fibre and strengthened domestic consumption.
China is also expected to witness a strong recovery in cotton imports. After recording an eight-year low in the previous season, the country’s cotton lint imports are forecast to rise by approximately 42% during 2025/26. ICAC expects China to reclaim its position as the world’s largest cotton importer in the 2026/27 season, accounting for nearly 19% of global cotton imports.
The recovery is being driven by additional import quotas, stronger domestic cotton prices and sustained demand from textile mills. Brazil continues to strengthen its dominance as China’s largest cotton supplier, accounting for about 52% of the country’s cotton imports. Australia remains the second-largest supplier, while evolving U.S.-China trade dynamics continue to influence global cotton trade flows.
On the production front, global cotton output for the 2025/26 season is estimated at 26.5 million tonnes, while consumption is expected to reach 25.3 million tonnes, reflecting a 1.6% year-on-year increase.
Looking ahead to 2026/27, global cotton production is projected to decline by 2% to 25.9 million tonnes. Despite lower output, global cotton consumption is expected to rise by around 1% to 25.5 million tonnes, indicating steady demand and a more balanced market outlook.