Tariff escalations have reshaped trade flows and forecasts, and persistent impacts are expected in the coming seasons. By 2025-26, global cotton area is projected at 30.4 million hectares, with average yields of 835 kg per hectare, slightly above the decade average. Consumption will continue to be led by China (32 percent), followed by India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Turkiye, which together account for 76 percent of global use, the ICAC said in a press release.
World cotton fiber production for 2025 is estimated at 25.4 million tons, a figure stable compared to last season and higher than consumption by 392,000 tons, the ICAC said. Global trade fell 7.4 percent to 9.1 million tonnes due to a sharp 65 percent drop in Chinese imports. For 2025-26, area and yields remain stable, while the Cotlook A index is forecast between 62 and 91 cents per pound, with a midpoint of 74 cents.
Furthermore, in the 2025-26 season, it is estimated that the main producers of cotton fiber will remain the same as last season, with slight changes in their share in the world market.
The ICAC forecasts the Cotlook A index for 2025-26 in the range of 62 to 91 cents per pound, with a midpoint of 74 cents, depending on current supply and demand conditions.
Fiber2Fashion News Desk (KD)
