CAI Ups 2024-25 Cotton Estimate to 311.40 Lakh Bales

The Cotton Association of India (CAI) has revised its pressing estimate for the 2024-25 cotton season, projecting it at 311.40 lakh bales of 170 kg each. This marks an increase of 10.25 lakh bales compared to the previous estimate of 301.15 lakh bales issued in June 2025. The revision is primarily due to higher than expected pressing figures reported from major cotton-producing states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Telangana, and Karnataka.

CAI’s monthly crop committee meeting, chaired by President Atul S. Ganatra, compiled data for this update by incorporating inputs from upcountry associations, cotton trade stakeholders, ginners, and textile mill representatives.

The total cotton supply up to the end of June 2025 is estimated at 356.76 lakh bales, which includes:

• Opening stock of 29.83 lakh bales as on 1st October 2024,
• Pressing up to June 2025 of 311.40 lakh bales, and
• Imports of 15.53 lakh bales up to June 2025.

The estimated cotton consumption up to June 2025 stands at 233.50 lakh bales, while exports are pegged at 15.25 lakh bales for the same period. The closing stock at the end of June is thus projected at 108.01 lakh bales, including stock held by mills, MNCs, ginners, and traders, as well as cotton in transit.

For the entire 2024-25 season, CAI has:

• Retained the total cotton supply estimate at 380.59 lakh bales (same as June),
• Maintained the import estimate at 39.00 lakh bales,
• Revised domestic consumption upward by 2.00 lakh bales to 308.00 lakh bales, based on the ongoing consumption trends,
• Held exports steady at 17.00 lakh bales, and
• Estimated the closing stock as of 30th September 2025 at 55.59 lakh bales.

President Atul Ganatra emphasized that the improved estimates are reflective of the steady increase in cotton arrivals, especially from Maharashtra and Gujarat. He also pointed out that while domestic consumption is rising, exports are witnessing a slowdown, likely due to international market dynamics.

The Cotton Association of India continues to monitor the situation closely and aims to support accurate forecasting to help the entire cotton value chain.