Cotton planting for the 2026-27 marketing season has increased. However, rainfall and crop conditions across major cotton-growing States will determine the final crop size, according to the Indian Cotton Federation (ICF).

Rainfall Key to Cotton Crop

ICF secretary Nishant Asher said scattered rainfall could affect cotton production in the new season. Crop conditions in individual States will also play an important role.

International cotton prices, currency movements and competing fibre prices will influence demand during the season.

The ICF estimated India’s cotton production for 2025-26 at 320 lakh to 325 lakh bales. Cotton arrivals remained steady, supported by supplies from southern States and Maharashtra.

Domestic Cotton Prices Rise

Domestic cotton prices increased by nearly 25% over the past two months. Lower rainfall in Gujarat and Telangana has raised concerns about the standing crop.

At the same time, international ICE cotton prices have eased from earlier levels of around 86 cents to about 80–82 cents.

The price gap has put pressure on spinning mill margins. It has also affected the export competitiveness of downstream textile products.

Cotton Yield Remains a Concern

India’s average cotton yield has declined from about 565 kg per hectare in 2013-14 to around 430 kg per hectare currently.

The ICF called for measures to improve productivity and reverse the long-term yield decline.

The Federation also sought full relief from import duty on cotton. It recommended preferential, low-interest credit for seasonal cotton procurement by ginners and spinning mills.

J. Thulasidharan was re-elected president of the Association. P. Nataraj and Aditya Krishna Pathy were re-elected as vice presidents, while Nishant Asher was re-elected secretary.