Global cotton consumption is forecast to exceed production in the 2026/27 marketing year, despite upward revisions to output and ending stocks, according to the latest estimates from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).
In its October 2026 World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report, USDA projected global cotton production at approximately 117.95 million 480-pound bales, while mill consumption is expected to reach 123.08 million bales.
World cotton production was revised upward from the September forecast, supported mainly by improved output prospects in Brazil and the United States. Global consumption was also raised slightly, reflecting stronger expected demand in several textile-producing countries.
Global cotton trade is projected at 44.71 million bales, with higher exports from Brazil contributing to the increase. Meanwhile, world ending stocks are forecast at 70.68 million bales, up from the previous month’s estimate but still below the level of production and consumption combined.
The latest outlook indicates that the global cotton market could remain relatively tight as textile mills are expected to consume more cotton than growers produce. However, higher production and stock estimates could help moderate supply concerns.
For Bangladesh, one of the world’s major cotton-importing countries, developments in global production, export availability and mill demand will remain important factors influencing raw-material procurement costs and the competitiveness of the textile and apparel industry.
Source: US Department of Agriculture (USDA), October 2026 World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE).
