India’s cotton output to dip to 301.75 lakh bales in 2024-25: CAI

India’s cotton production for the 2024-25 season is projected to decline to 301.75 lakh bales due to lower yields in Gujarat and northern states, according to the Cotton Association of India (CAI). The previous season’s output stood at 327.45 lakh bales. CAI stated that overall cotton production is likely to decline due to lower yields in Gujarat, Punjab, and Haryana. However, the quality of cotton remains excellent.

As of January 2025, total cotton supply is estimated at 234.26 lakh bales, comprising 188.07 lakh bales from fresh pressings, 16 lakh bales of imports, and an opening stock of 30.19 lakh bales. Consumption until January is pegged at 114 lakh bales, while exports stand at 8 lakh bales.

Stock at the end of January is estimated at 112.26 lakh bales, including 27 lakh bales with textile mills and 85.26 lakh bales with CCI, Maharashtra Federation, and traders. CAI has maintained its domestic consumption forecast at 315 lakh bales. Cotton exports for 2024-25 are expected to drop to 17 lakh bales, compared to 28.36 lakh bales in 2023-24.