U.S. Cotton Exports Surge, Driven by Strong Demand from China

Export sales of U.S. upland cotton saw a significant boost for the week through April 11, with net sales reaching 146,100 running bales (RB), according to the weekly data released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This represents a 79% increase from the previous week and a 64% increase from the prior 4-week average. China led the demand, accounting for 92,600 RB of the net sales.

Other notable increases came from Pakistan, Vietnam, Bangladesh, and El Salvador. Despite the strong sales, exports of Upland cotton decreased slightly compared to the previous week.

Pima cotton sales experienced a decline, with net sales totaling 2,700 RB for the 2023/2024 marketing year. India was the primary buyer, offsetting reductions from Italy and Japan. Pima cotton exports also saw a decrease compared to the previous week.