Cotton Futures Hover Near 1-Week Low

Cotton futures traded around 78 cents per pound, near the lowest in a week, as the dollar held firm and improved weather conditions boosted crop prospects. Local reports indicated that recent rainfall across parts of the US Cotton Belt improved soil moisture and crop prospects, reinforcing expectations of a stronger supply outlook. Favourable conditions were noted across northern West Texas, the Coastal Bend, the Delta and the Southeast. Overall, US cotton supply fundamentals remain relatively comfortable, despite some demand support from India. The latest US Weekly Crop Progress report showed cotton planting had reached 66%, up from 53% a week earlier and 64% a year ago, broadly in line with the five-year average of 67%. Meanwhile, New Delhi has suspended cotton import duties for five months to help textile mills secure cheaper raw materials and support garment exports. The move is expected to boost imports from Australia, Brazil, the United States and African producers.

Cotton futures rose above 77 cents per pound, approaching a two-week high, amid ongoing technical rebound, still elevated oil prices, and India’s suspension of its 11% import duty on cotton. The move, which runs until October 30, is aimed at boosting supplies of high-quality fiber for the textile industry and is expected to lift domestic purchases amidst strong global demand for yarns and textile products. Cotton is likely to be sourced from surplus exporters including Australia, Brazil, the United States, and Africa. Additional support came from strong US export sales, with USDA data showing 153,622 running bales in the latest week, up 17% from the previous week and above the four-week average. Meanwhile, the Crop Progress report showed 66% of the US cotton crop had been planted, up from 53% a week earlier and slightly ahead of 64% at the same time last year, indicating that crop development remains largely on track.

Cotton futures traded around 77 cents per pound, near the lowest since mid-April, pressured by falling oil prices along with signs of ample supply and a stronger production outlook. Latest data showed ICE certified stocks increased by 104 bales to 225,259, the highest level since July 2017. Meanwhile, weather conditions across the US cotton belt have improved, especially in West Texas, easing drought concerns and improving crop prospects. The USDA reported US cotton planting at 53% complete as of May 24, ahead of last year’s 50% pace and slightly above the five-year average, reinforcing expectations for stable to higher supplies. Separately, US Agriculture Secretary announced the “Great American Cotton Plan” aimed at strengthening the US cotton sector and support producers. Elsewhere, consulting firm StoneX kept its Brazil's 2025/26 cotton production estimate unchanged at 3.858 million tons, while raising its export forecast by 6.5% to a record of 3.3 million tons.