China’s cotton crop is in worse condition this year than at the same time in 2009, the official Xinhua News Agency reported, citing Ma Shuping, deputy director of planting at the Ministry of Agriculture.

Low temperatures and prolonged rain delayed planting and overall growth, Xinhua said, citing Ma. Weather in September and October will be the key determinant for the final harvest, Xinhua said, citing Ma. China’s need for imported fiber will increase as the textile industry continues to expand, Ma was cited as saying by Xinhua.