USDA projects lower global cotton production in 2026/27

The USDA projects global cotton production will fall to 117.5 million bales in the 2026/27 season, which began in October.

India’s crop is forecast to drop by 500,000 bales to 23.5 million because of unfavorable weather.

US production is also expected to fall, while Turkey’s crop is smaller than previously forecast.

China, the world’s largest cotton producer, is expected to produce 34 million bales, up 500,000, and Australia’s forecast is unchanged.

The production declines in India, the US and Turkey outweigh increases in China and Australia.

Global cotton consumption is forecast to fall to 122.7 million bales, while exports are projected to rise to 44.8 million.