Washington, DC — World cotton lint production in the 2025/26 season is currently estimated at 26 million tonnes, continuing to exceed world consumption, which is estimated at 25.2 million tonnes, according to the February 2026 edition of Cotton This Month. Global production is estimated to be 1% higher than the previous season, while consumption is estimated to be 0.4% higher, resulting in a continued supply surplus in the world cotton market.

World cotton lint production in 2025/26 is expected to be led by China, followed by India and Brazil. Consumption is also led by China, followed by India and Pakistan, underscoring Asia’s continued dominance in both global supply and demand.

World cotton lint trade in 2025/26 is estimated at 9.7 million tonnes, representing a 5% increase over the previous season, although this figure may be revised as the season progresses. Brazil is expected to remain the world’s largest exporter, followed by the United States and Australia. On the import side, Bangladesh is projected to be the world’s largest cotton lint importer, followed by Vietnam and China, reflecting ongoing shifts in global textile manufacturing and sourcing patterns.

Other notable findings include:

• The United States signed trade agreements with China (which agreed to suspend all tariffs on US cotton lint imports) and Vietnam (which agreed to increase its US imports).
• Growers in Argentina, Mexico, and India are expected to shift away from cotton to alternative crops, believing they will provide more income.
• The ICAC projects cotton production in Australia will decrease by 22% and cotton planted area will decrease by 11%, largely due to low cotton prices and an expected reduction in irrigation water.