Bangladesh set to overtake China as top cotton importer: USDA

Bangladesh is projected to surpass China in cotton imports for the 2024-25 trading year, reclaiming its position as the world's top importer, according to the latest USDA report. Imports are now expected to reach 8 million bales, up from the previous estimate of 7.8 million, driven by strong demand for ready-made garments.

In contrast, China’s imports are forecast to drop to 7.3 million bales, while Vietnam and Pakistan are expected to increase their imports to 7.4 million and 5 million bales, respectively.

Despite this prediction, Bangladesh’s textile mill owners warn that the ongoing gas crisis is limiting production, with many mills operating at just 50 per cent capacity. Domestic yarn producers are also struggling against Indian imports due to reduced government incentives.

Bangladesh imported 1.889 million tons of cotton last year up 39 per cent year-on-year while yarn imports totaled 1.2 million tons, according to the NBR. BTMA officials state that while the country is largely self-sufficient in yarn production, energy shortages are disrupting operations. Meanwhile, export-oriented garment factories have strong orders for the next few months, adding pressure on local textile mills. With global cotton demand shifting, Bangladesh's import surge underscores its dominant role in the textile sector.