CAI Releases First Cotton Pressing Estimate For 2025–26 At 305 Lakh Bales
The Cotton Association of India (CAI) has released its first estimate for the 2025–26 cotton season, projecting 305 lakh bales of cotton pressing. The estimate, compiled from 11 state associations and trade sources, reflects a stable production outlook as the season began on 1 October 2025.
Total supply in October is pegged at 93.17 lakh bales, comprising 24.58 lakh bales of pressing, 8 lakh bales of imports, and an opening stock of 60.59 lakh bales. CAI estimates consumption for October at 25 lakh bales and export shipments at 1.5 lakh bales, bringing the month-end stock to 66.67 lakh bales.
For the full season, total supply is projected to reach 410.59 lakh bales, higher than last year’s 392.59 lakh bales, supported by increased imports estimated at 45 lakh bales. Domestic consumption is forecast at 300 lakh bales, lower than the previous year, while exports are expected to decline slightly to 17 lakh bales.
The CAI Crop Committee, which met on 10 November, noted a slight reduction in production compared to last season but highlighted rising closing stocks, which are estimated to reach 93.59 lakh bales by 30 September 2026, a significant increase from last year’s 60.59 lakh bales. The committee will continue monitoring arrivals and may revise figures as the season progresses.
