CAI Maintains India’s 2024-25 Cotton Output Estimate At 312.40 Lakh Bales
The Cotton Association of India (CAI) has retained its cotton pressing estimate for the 2024-25 season at 312.40 lakh bales (170 kg each), based on assessments from state associations and trade inputs. The season began on October 1, 2024.
According to CAI, total cotton supply for the season up to September 30, 2025, is projected at 392.59 lakh bales, comprising opening stock of 39.19 lakh bales, domestic output of 312.40 lakh bales, and imports estimated at 41 lakh bales—significantly higher than last year’s 15.20 lakh bales due to improved price parity and international sourcing trends.
Domestic consumption is pegged at 314 lakh bales, unchanged from previous estimates. However, cotton exports are expected to fall to 18 lakh bales in 2024-25 from 28.36 lakh bales last season, reflecting softer global demand and pricing dynamics.
The closing stock at the end of September 2025 is projected to rise sharply to 60.59 lakh bales, compared with 39.19 lakh bales last season. Of this, 31.50 lakh bales are likely to be held by textile mills, with the remainder lying with CCI, state federations, traders and ginners.
The estimates were finalized at CAI’s Crop Committee meeting held on October 15, 2025, with participation from representatives of all major cotton-growing states. The committee noted stability in consumption and production expectations, with the main shifts seen in trade flows—higher imports and lower exports.
The association will continue to monitor crop arrivals, demand conditions and export competitiveness as the season progresses.
