CAI Revises India’s 2025-26 Cotton Pressing Estimate to 324 Lakh Bales

The Cotton Association of India (CAI) has updated its estimate for India’s cotton pressing for the 2025-26 season. The revised figure stands at 324.00 lakh bales, reflecting adjustments based on recent inputs from state associations and trade sources. The current season commenced on 1st October, 2025.

The Cotton Association of India (CAI) has released its latest assessment of cotton pressing for the 2025-26 season, which began on 1st October, 2025. The revised estimate was finalised during a virtual meeting of the CAI Crop Committee held on Friday, the 10th April 2026. The meeting was attended by 21 members representing various cotton-growing regions across the country.

The updated estimate is based on data and inputs received from members of eleven cotton-growing state associations, along with other trade sources. The committee evaluated state-wise cotton pressing figures before arriving at the revised national estimate.

According to the latest figures, the total cotton pressing estimate for the 2025-26 season has been increased by 3.50 lakh bales to 324.00 lakh bales of 170 kgs. each. This is equivalent to 340.00 lakh running bales of 162 kgs. each, with a margin of +/- 3%. The previous estimate stood at 320.50 lakh bales of 170 kgs. each, equivalent to 336.33 lakh running bales of 162 kgs. each.

The revision reflects changes in state-level estimates. Gujarat recorded a decrease of 3.00 lakh bales, while Maharashtra saw an increase of 7.00 lakh bales. Madhya Pradesh reported a marginal decline of 0.50 lakh bales. Overall, these adjustments contributed to a net increase of 3.50 lakh bales in the national estimate.

The CAI Crop Committee indicated that it will continue to monitor cotton pressing data in the coming months. Any further revisions, if required, will be incorporated in subsequent CAI reports.