CAI Projects 7% Rise In Cotton Acreage For 2026-27
India’s cotton acreage is expected to increase by nearly 7 percent in the 2026-27 crop year, driven by higher minimum support prices and improved returns to farmers during the current season, according to the latest estimates released by Cotton Association of India (CAI).
In a joint statement, Vinay N Kotak and Atul S Ganatra said remunerative prices are likely to encourage farmers to expand cotton sowing in the upcoming season.
Cotton was cultivated across 114.82 lakh hectares during 2025-26, according to data from the Agriculture Ministry. For the upcoming marketing season, the Centre has raised the minimum support price by Rs 557 per quintal, taking it to Rs 8,267 for medium staple cotton and Rs 8,667 for long staple cotton.
The estimates were finalised during a meeting of CAI’s National Crop Committee held in Mumbai, where stakeholders reviewed state-wise sowing prospects and crop projections.
CAI has pegged India’s cotton production for the 2025-26 season at 334 lakh bales of 170 kg each. Cotton imports are projected to rise by nearly 15 per cent to 47 lakh bales, compared to 41 lakh bales in the previous year, while exports are expected to remain flat at 18 lakh bales.
Domestic cotton consumption is estimated at 338 lakh bales, reflecting a 7.6 percent increase, while total surplus is projected to rise to 103.59 lakh bales, significantly higher than 78.59 lakh bales in the previous season.
Closing stocks for the season ending September 2026 are estimated at 85.59 lakh bales, nearly 41 percent higher than the previous year’s 60.59 lakh bales.
CAI also proposed conducting an independent survey to assess actual cotton consumption in India. In view of differing opinions regarding carry-over stock figures, the association has constituted a seven-member committee to reconcile the estimates before placing the matter before its Board of Directors.
