In the week ending June 19, 2025, the USDA reported contrasting fortunes in US cotton export categories. Upland cotton net sales plummeted 67% week-over-week to just 27,300 running bales, marking a sharp decline from the previous week and 71% below the four‑week average. Export shipments followed suit, falling 10% on the week to 184,500 bales.
Major buyers of upland cotton remained in Asia, with Vietnam leading (34,300 bales), followed by El Salvador, Malaysia, Japan, and Thailand. Despite the drop, these regions sustained demand into the 2025–26 marketing year, with 64,700 bales sold—chiefly to Vietnam (34,300), El Salvador (15,300), Malaysia (8,000), Japan (3,400), and Thailand (2,300).
By contrast, Pima cotton displayed slight resilience. Net sales stood at 1,800 bales for 2024–25, down noticeably from the prior week yet up 65% from the four‑week average. Shipments rose to 8,000 bales, boosted by growing exports to India, Vietnam, Peru, Egypt, and Bangladesh.
The dip in upland sales reflects broader global market softness and possible shifts in purchasing cycles. Demand from long-term importers remains solid but tempered by seasonal and economic variables. Pima’s relative strength is encouraging; its premium quality continues to attract niche markets, even amid tightening conditions.
Outlook: Watch for stabilization as the export market seeks equilibrium. Key indicators include upland cotton’s rebound post-dip and sustained Pima exports into premium segments. Keep an eye on weekly USDA releases to follow evolving regional demand and signalling shifts in global cotton trade flows.
