CAI cuts 2024-25 cotton pressing estimate to 295.30 lakh bales

The Cotton Association of India (CAI) has reduced its cotton pressing estimate for the 2024-25 season to 295.30 lakh bales of 170 kg each, down by 6.45 lakh bales from its previous projection. The revision is based on inputs from 11 state associations and trade sources. Gujarat and Maharashtra saw the largest reductions, with reductions of 4 lakh and 3 lakh bales, respectively.

By the end of February 2025, total cotton supply was estimated at 275.76 lakh bales, including 223.57 lakh bales from pressing, 22.00 lakh bales from imports, and an opening stock of 30.19 lakh bales. Domestic consumption stood at 142.00 lakh bales, while exports reached 9.00 lakh bales. The closing stock at the end of February was estimated at 124.76 lakh bales. For the full season ending September 30, 2025, total cotton supply has been revised downward to 355.49 lakh bales. Imports are projected at 30.00 lakh bales, up by 14.80 lakh bales from last year.

CAI maintained its domestic consumption estimate at 315.00 lakh bales, while exports are expected to drop to 17.00 lakh bales from 28.36 lakh bales last season. The closing stock is projected at 23.49 lakh bales, lower than last year’s 30.19 lakh bales. CAI will continue monitoring pressing figures for further adjustments.