India: Cotton and Products Annual

FAS Mumbai estimates marketing year (MY) 2023/24 India cotton production at 25.5 million 480 lb. bales on 12.4 million hectares area planted, a decrease from the previous year due to the expectation that farmers will shift cotton acreage to higher return crops such as oilseeds and pulses. However, yields are expected to recover as farmers will plant shorter duration early maturation varieties. Mill consumption is estimated at 23.5 million 480 lb. bales, as yarn and textile demand weakens in major international markets. Higher exportable supplies, at 2.8 million 480 lb. bales, indicates that export prospects are better than last year, while imports will reduce significantly due to tighter global supplies. The Government of India continues to explore various approaches to enhance yield of extra-long staple (ELS) cotton and reduce import dependence.