Bangladesh is projected to retain its position as the world’s largest cotton importer in marketing year (MY) 2025–26, with imports expected to reach a record 8.5 million bales, according to the latest Cotton: World Markets and Trade report by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Vietnam follows closely with a projected import of 8 million bales, marking record highs for both countries. The report also forecasts global cotton consumption to rise to 118.1 million bales—the highest in five years—driven by steady economic activity in key textile-exporting nations like Bangladesh and Vietnam.
The surge in Bangladesh’s cotton imports aligns with the rapid growth of its ready-made garment industry. In the first 10 months of FY25, RMG exports rose by 10.86% year-on-year, reaching $30.25 billion, according to the Export Promotion Bureau. BKMEA President Mohammad Hatem noted that increasing cotton imports from the US is part of Bangladesh’s broader trade strategy to reduce its trade deficit and strengthen its case for duty-free access to the US market. He emphasized US cotton’s superior quality and sustainability, which align with buyer demand for natural, responsibly sourced materials.
The USDA report reflects a structural shift in global cotton trade, with Bangladesh overtaking China, whose imports are expected to fall from 15 million bales in MY24 to 7 million in MY26. This transition underscores Bangladesh’s rising importance in the global textile value chain. Global cotton trade is projected to increase by 2.3 million bales to 44.8 million bales, supported by adequate supply, a weaker US dollar, and lower energy prices—factors that may ease cost pressures for Bangladeshi mills.
Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain reaffirmed Bangladesh’s intent to boost US cotton imports, citing benefits for both nations. He suggested that deeper trade ties could help shield Bangladesh from future tariff policies and called for increased domestic cotton production to meet at least 20% of the country’s 9 million bale annual demand.
Comment here