ICAC: 2024-25 cotton forecast up in key areas

The International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) predicts a positive outlook for the 2024-25 cotton season, with gains expected in area planted, production, consumption, and trade. However, a potential yield decline of 0.12 per cent casts a shadow of uncertainty. This decline is likely due to ongoing issues of extreme weather and pests, both linked to climate change.

Here's a breakdown of the ICAC's projections:

Area: Up 3 per cent to 32.85 million hectares

Production: Up 2.5 per cent to 25.22 million tons

Consumption: Up 2.9 per cent to 25.37 million tons

Trade: Up nearly 4 per cent to 9.94 million tons

While price forecasts remain uncertain, the outlook for the cotton industry suggests a period of moderate growth, with the key challenge being weather-related yield fluctuations.