Cotlook Index: 29-07-2026
89.75 (-0.35)
India's cotton imports to surge 3.5-fold, output revised up: CAI
Thu. 30th July 2026, (Source: www.fibre2fashion.com/news)
Insights: The Cotton Association of India (CAI) has raised its 2025-26 cotton crop estimate to 337 lakh bales and increased domestic consumption to 348 lakh bales. Cotton imports are now projected to surge 362 per cent to 60 lakh bales, while exports are expected to decline to 15 lakh bales. Closing stocks are estimated at 89.59 lakh bales, significantly higher than last season.
The Cotton Association of India (CAI) has forecasted cotton imports to rise 362 per cent in current season. It has also marginally raised its estimate for India's 2025-26 cotton pressing to 337 lakh bales (170 kg each), up by 3 lakh bales from its previous projection of 334 lakh bales. India’s cotton crop marketing season 2025-26 will end on September 30, 2026. The industry body also increased its domestic cotton consumption estimate by 10 lakh bales to 348 lakh bales for the current crop year, based on revised projections from the Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI). The estimate is 29 lakh bales higher than the previous season's consumption. CAI sharply raised its cotton import forecast by 13 lakh bales to 60 lakh bales, citing stronger arrivals. Imports during the season are now expected to exceed the previous year's level by 19 lakh bales, with around 51 lakh bales estimated to have reached Indian ports by the end of June. In contrast, the association lowered its export estimate by 3 lakh bales to 15 lakh bales for the 2025 26 season, below last year's 18 lakh bales. Cotton exports up to the end of June were estimated at 11.25 lakh bales. Total cotton supply for the season has been estimated at 452.59 lakh bales, comprising opening stocks of 55.59 lakh bales, domestic production of 337 lakh bales and imports of 60 lakh bales. The opening stock was revised downward by 5 lakh bales, following a stock reconciliation exercise, with a corresponding upward revision in domestic consumption for the 2024-25 season. The available surplus at the end of the season is projected at 104.59 lakh bales, compared with 73.59 lakh bales, a year earlier. Closing stocks as of September 30, 2026, are now estimated at 89.59 lakh bales, 4 lakh bales higher than the previous estimate, and 34 lakh bales above the closing stock, recorded at the end of the 2024-25 season.
ICE cotton falls further as broader commodity weakness weighs.
Thu. 30th July 2026, (Source: www.fibre2fashion.com/news)
Insights: ICE cotton futures fell for a second straight session, with the December 2026 contract slipping below the key 80-cent level as broad commodity weakness, a stronger US dollar and profit-taking outweighed supportive cotton fundamentals. Strong Chinese demand and tight ICE stocks remained supportive, but thin trading and macroeconomic concerns kept prices under pressure.
ICE cotton futures further declined on second consecutive day yesterday, because broad commodity weakness outweighed cotton’s supportive fundamentals. All the actively traded contracts finished lower and December contract slipped back, below the key 80 cents psychological level. There was no major cotton specific bearish news, but stronger US dollar dampened sentiment in US cotton. The most active December 2026 contract settled at 79.53 cents, down 1.0 cent or 1.24 per cent. The contract recorded weekly decline of 45 points, giving back Monday’s recovery. The decline was primarily driven by broad risk-off sentiment, profit-taking after recent gains, and a stronger US Dollar. The US Dollar Index remained near a one-month high following the Federal Reserve meeting, reducing the competitiveness of US cotton exports and adding pressure to prices. Market analysts said cotton continues to trade within a broad 80-82 cent range, but repeated failures to break above this level have encouraged selling as investors reduce risk ahead of the Federal Reserve's policy decision. Cotton's supportive fundamentals, including strong Chinese reserve demand and tight ICE certified stocks, remained intact but were overshadowed by weakness across the broader commodity markets. Trading volume fell to just 27,393 contracts, the lowest daily volume of 2026, compared with 34,619 contracts on Tuesday, reflecting extremely light summer participation and limited conviction from both buyers and sellers. Daily trading limits will reset to 300 points for the next trading session. Technically, December futures closed back below the 80 cents level and fell below the 10-day moving average, after holding above all major moving averages for the previous six sessions, representing the first meaningful deterioration in short-term momentum. China's State Reserve Auctions continued to record 100 per cent sellouts, confirming steady mill demand, and continued support for nearby physical cotton, despite futures weakness. ICE Certified Stocks remain historically tight, keeping the underlying supply outlook supportive even as outside markets dictate short-term price direction. Weather concerns in key producing regions continue to be monitored, although improved crop prospects and expectations of higher arrivals later in the season, have eased immediate supply concerns. Overall, cotton traded as a macro-driven commodity rather than on its own fundamentals. Strong Chinese demand, tight certified stocks and supportive supply conditions remain constructive, but broad commodity weakness, a firmer US Dollar, profit-taking, and extremely light trading volume pulled prices back below 80 cents. The next major catalysts remain the Federal Reserve's guidance, US dollar movement, weather developments and whether prices can quickly reclaim the 80-cent level.This morning (Indian Standard Time), ICE cotton for December 2026 was traded at 79.69 cents per pound (up 0.16 cent), cash cotton at 74.27 cents (down 1.19 cent), the October 2026 at 78.02 cents (down 1.19 cent), the March 2027 contract at 81.19 cents (up 0.05 cent), the May 2027 contract at 82.25 cents (down 0.03 cent), and the July 2027 contract at 82.14 cents (down 0.01 cent). A few contracts remained at their previous closing levels, with no trading recorded so far today.
Scanty Rainfall Puts Cotton and Soybean Crops Under Stress in Maharashtra's Paranda
Thu. 30th July 2026, Jayesh Chouhan (Source: www.smartinfoindia.com)
Maharashtra: Cotton and soybean crops in crisis due to scanty rainfall in Paranda. Paranda, Maharashtra: Cotton and soybean farmers in Paranda taluka are facing increasing concerns due to insufficient rainfall during the critical Kharif season. The low water availability in the Sina Kolegaon project has increased dependence on monsoon rains, creating uncertainty over crop development and production. crops Farmers who sowed cotton and soybean crops at the beginning of the season are now reporting slow growth due to moisture stress. In several areas, soybean crops have started turning yellow, while cotton are also showing signs of stress because of inadequate rainfall. If substantial rainfall does not occur in the coming days, farmers fear a decline in cotton and soybean yields. Many growers have already invested heavily in seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, and a weak crop season could increase financial pressure. The limited water storage in the Sina-Kolegaon project has further increased concerns, as irrigation availability remains restricted. Cotton and soybean cultivation in the region is now largely dependent on timely monsoon rainfall. for Market participants are closely monitoring the situation, as any reduction in cotton and soybean production could affect supply and influence prices. The next few weeks of rainfall activity will be crucial crop recovery and the final Kharif
US Cotton Crisis Deepens as Brazil Overtakes Export Market
Thu. 30th July 2026, Jayesh Chouhan (Source: www.smartinfoindia.com)
US Cotton Crisis Deepens as Brazil Captures output Export outlook. Customers The financial crisis facing US cotton extends beyond merely weak agricultural prices; Brazil is attracting export customers who may never return. Bob Antoshak, Managing Partner at Gherzi USA, notes that the industry's long-term viability is threatened by projected producer losses and declining demand. According to American Farm Bureau estimates, cotton production could incur losses of $342 per acre in 2026 and $406 per acre in 2027, potentially totaling around $3.8 billion. Six consecutive years of negative returns will strain farmers' working capital and likely increase reliance on operating loans. The greatest threat lies in the reliance on exports. USDA projections indicate the US will export 12.3 million bales of cotton, while domestic mill consumption is expected to remain at just 1.6 million bales. Conversely, Brazil is poised to export approximately 15 million bales, driven by increased production, superior traceability, quality testing, financing options, and strong relationships with mills. Global cotton demand remains sluggish due to polyester's growing market share and low profit margins at foreign spinning mills. Once mills accept the quality of Brazilian cotton and adjust their production processes accordingly, temporary trade agreements alone will not suffice to win back US business. While emergency payments may offer some relief to farmers and the agricultural sector, they will not recover lost customers. The industry must focus on export incentives, buyer financing, quality consistency, traceability, and strengthening textile production capacity within the Western Hemisphere.
Telangana Kharif Sowing Nears Completion; Cotton Covers 46.34 Lakh Acres
Thu. 30th July 2026, Jayesh Chouhan (Source: www.smartinfoindia.com)
Telangana Kharif Sowing Update | July 29, 2026 Cotton: Cotton sowing has reached 46.34 lakh acres, representing 97.72% of the normal sown area. It has thus emerged as one of Telangana's key Kharif crops this season. Oilseeds: Total oilseed sowing has covered 37.18 lakh acres, which is 83.07% of the normal area. Soybean remains the primary oilseed crop; it has been sown across 36.65 lakh acres, accounting for 87.97% of its normal coverage. Weather Update: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light to moderate rainfall and isolated thunderstorms in parts of Telangana over the next few days. This rainfall is expected to aid the remaining Kharif sowing operations and boost soil moisture levels. Additionally, farmers are advised to ensure proper drainage arrangements in low-lying fields to prevent issues related to waterlogging.
US Senate Advances Russia Sanctions Bill; India May Face 100% Tariffs Thu.
30th July 2026, Jayesh Chouhan (Source: www.smartinfoindia.com)
US Senate Clears Russia Sanctions Bill, India Could Face 100% Tariffs The US Senate has moved a step closer to imposing tougher sanctions on Russia, with potential consequences for India. On Tuesday, senators voted 86-12 to advance a bipartisan bill that would give President Donald Trump broad powers to target Russia's energy trade and countries buying its oil and gas. The proposed legislation would allow the US president to impose a 500% tariff on Russian imports and an additional 100% tariff on the world's five largest buyers of Russian crude and natural gas, as well as countries helping Moscow evade energy sanctions. India and China, among Russia's biggest energy customers, could be affected if the bill becomes law. The measure also extends the Iran Sanctions Act until 2031 and allows the president to waive sanctions if deemed in US national interest. While the Senate could pass the bill later this week, it is unlikely to become law before September as the House is in August recess. Trump has backed the proposal and met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy before the vote. Zelenskyy urged US lawmakers to maintain sanctions pressure on Moscow, calling it "a big signal to Europe and Ukraine." Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said the bill would send a strong message to Russian President Vladimir Putin, though some lawmakers cautioned it would significantly expand the president's tariff powers. If enacted, the legislation could reshape global energy trade and impact India's imports of discounted Russian crude. India Cotton Stocks Rise as 2025-26 Closing Inventory Seen at 89.59 Lakh Bales Thu. 30th July 2026, Jayesh Chouhan (Source: www.smartinfoindia.com) A SUMMARISE REPORT ON PRESENT COTTON SCENARIO (POSITION AS ON 30/06/2026) (Each bale170 kgs.)
▪️Total pressing estimate during crop year 2025-2026 is estimated as 337.80 lakh bales & considering above , the closing stock at the end of season 25-26 ,september 30th 2026 is calculated as 89.59 lakh bales , higher by 34.00 lakh bales of last year closing.
▪️Cotton consumption in this cotton season may touch 348.00 lakh bales and upto 30-06-2026 about 261.00 lakh bales reported as consumed.
▪️Export upto June-2026 end is found total 15.00 lakh bales against estimation for this season year of 18.00 lakh bales .Upto 30-June-2026 about 11.25 lakh bales are estimated to have been shipped by the country.
▪️It is revealed that during current crop end total 60.00 lakh bales may be imported. Upto June-2026 about 51.00 lakh bales have been arrived at different indian ports.
▪️Kepping in view the above , total available stock as on 30.06.2026 is calculated to the tune 434.97 lakh bales, consisting of opening stock, total pressing & import.
▪️As on 30-June-2026 closing stock is estimated at 162.72 lakh bales out of which stock with the mills is found to the tune of 94.50 lakh bales where as with CCI/MFED MNCS, Ginner , Treaders and Exporters it comes around 68.22 lakh bales.
India–Mali Textile Partnership Gains Momentum as Bilateral Trade Surges 55%
Thu. 30th July 2026, Jayesh Chouhan (Source: www.smartinfoindia.com)
India–Mali Textile Partnership Strengthens as Bilateral Trade Jumps 55% India and Mali are accelerating cooperation in cotton, textiles and manufacturing as rapidly expanding trade paves the way for long-term investment partnerships. The inaugural India–Mali Forum for the Promotion of Exports in Bamako highlighted opportunities across textiles, mining, energy, pharmaceuticals and infrastructure. Bilateral trade reached US$326.61 million in FY 2025–26, marking a robust 55% year-on-year increase. The forum brought together senior government officials and nearly 30 Indian business leaders to identify new commercial opportunities through B2B, B2G and government-level engagements. For the textile sector, Mali’s position as one of Africa’s largest cotton producers presents a significant opportunity. The country produces 600,000–700,000 tonnes of cotton lint in strong crop years but exports most of it as raw material. With plans to expand domestic spinning, weaving, processing and garment manufacturing, Mali is seeking partners that can help build an integrated textile value chain. Indian companies, with strengths in cotton processing, spinning, textile machinery, fabrics, apparel manufacturing and sustainable production technologies, are well placed to support this transformation. Mali’s import-dependent textile and apparel market, estimated at US$200–300 million annually, also offers scope for increased exports of fabrics, garments, home textiles and machinery. The forum identified textiles and cotton among the priority sectors for collaboration, alongside renewable energy, mining, agro-industry and healthcare. Discussions focused on translating business interest into commercial partnerships and MoUs. Mali will further showcase investment opportunities at its Investment Forum on 3–4 December 2026, reinforcing its ambition to develop a value-added textile manufacturing ecosystem with India as a key partner.
Kasturi Cotton Drives Sustainable Growth
Wed. 29th July 2026, Jayesh Chouhan (Source: www.smartinfoindia.com)
Kasturi Cotton: India's Sustainable Answer to Global Apparel As the world's second-largest exporter of cotton—a key raw material for the global apparel industry—India is increasingly focusing on sustainable cotton cultivation. Leading this effort is the Cotton Textiles Export Promotion Council (TEXPROCIL), which, in collaboration with the Government of India, is promoting Kasturi Cotton, a premium cotton brand produced through sustainable and traceable farming practices. Kasturi Cotton is the first joint initiative of its kind by the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, in partnership with textile trade bodies and industry stakeholders. The initiative aims to establish "Kasturi Cotton" as a premium global brand while enhancing the value and competitiveness of cotton grown in India. Speaking to Fibre2Fashion during Bharat Tex, Jayesh Kakkad, Deputy Director of Marketing at TEXPROCIL, said the Kasturi Cotton Bharat initiative is built on three core pillars: quality, traceability, and sustainability. "Quality is ensured through standardised specifications, while farm-level traceability is enabled through a blockchain-based platform called KCTrack. On the sustainability front, we collaborate with organisations such as Better Cotton, Regenagri, CottonConnect, and CITI-CDRA's Cotton Cluster Verification and Rating (CTCVR) programme," Kakkad said. He added that cotton grown under recognised sustainable farming programmes can be certified as Kasturi Cotton, provided it meets the brand's quality specifications and standards. Such cotton is awarded dual recognition—certified both as Kasturi Cotton and under the respective sustainable cotton standard—reinforcing India's commitment to producing high-quality, responsibly sourced cotton for global markets.
Union Minister Shri Giriraj Singh to Inaugurate Centre of Excellence for Handloom Technology at IIT Delhi on 3 August
Thu. 30th July 2026, Jayesh Chouhan (Source:www.pib.gov.in)
Centre of Excellence to Strengthen India's Handloom Sector through Research, Innovation and Digital Technologies and to boost Competitiveness, Sustainability and Global Outreach of India's Handloom Sector In a major step towards building a technology-driven, future-ready handloom ecosystem, the Union Minister of Textiles Shri Giriraj Singh will inaugurate the Centre of Excellence for Handloom Technology (CoE-HT) at IIT Delhi on 3 August 2026. Union Minister of State for Textiles Shri Pabitra Margherita, Secretary Textiles, Smt. Neelam Shami Rao, Development Commissioner (Handlooms), Dr. M. Beena will also grace the inauguration ceremony along with senior officials from Ministry of Textiles and IIT Delhi. The Centre of Excellence established with a Government of India investment of ₹11.99 crore, aims to integrate India's rich handloom heritage with cutting-edge research, innovation and digital technologies to strengthen the sector's competitiveness, sustainability and global outreach. This centre will serve as a national knowledge and innovation hub, bringing together academia, industry, designers, technologists, startups and handloom institutions to develop advanced solutions for the handloom sector. Its focus areas include loom modernization and ergonomics, artificial intelligence, sustainability, functional innovation, digital knowledge systems and entrepreneurship. Over the next five years, the Centre will develop a national digital repository of handloom knowledge, create AI-enabled tools, develop improved loom technologies, facilitate patents and research, incubate startups, and train weavers, faculty members and handloom professionals across the country. The launch of the Centre of Excellence for Handloom Technology marks a significant milestone in the Government's efforts to modernize the handloom sector while preserving India's rich weaving traditions. By fostering research, innovation and entrepreneurship, the Centre is expected to create a robust ecosystem that empowers weavers, enhances productivity, promotes sustainable practices and positions Indian handloom for emerging domestic and global opportunities. India's handloom sector supports more than 35 lakh weavers and allied workers, with women constituting nearly 70 per cent of the workforce. While preserving centuries-old weaving traditions, the sector also faces challenges relating to productivity, technology adoption, traceability, authenticity, sustainability and market competitiveness. The Centre has been conceived to address these challenges through research, innovation, capacity building and technology transfer. The inaugural programme will also witness the launch of five flagship initiatives that showcase the Centre's vision of combining tradition with technology: Handloom 4.0 – a digital companion for every loom, enabling weavers to assess productivity & sustainability, helping cooperatives and government agencies to deliver timely last-mile assistance. Handloom e-Vidya, a problem-linked digital learning and knowledge hub that provides practical, curated solutions for weavers, students and other key stakeholders in the handloom ecosystem. HandloomX, an accelerator and incubation platform to nurture startups and innovations across the handloom value chain. Kalagriha Handloom Studio (GenZ Design Studio), aimed at connecting handloom with next generation consumers through digital visualization, customization and product authentication. Threads of Valour, an initiative promoting circularity by transforming recycled defence textiles into premium handloom products.
