India’s cotton imports for the 2025-26 season are now expected to climb to a record 60 lakh bales, according to the Cotton Association of India. The trade body has raised its import estimate by 13 lakh bales for the season ending in September, signaling a much larger inflow than previously projected.
The revised outlook comes as domestic demand continues to strengthen. Local consumption is now projected at 348 lakh bales this season, pointing to firm use by the industry and a tighter supply-demand balance in the domestic market.
At the same time, exports are expected to weaken. Cotton shipments are seen falling to 15 lakh bales from 18 lakh bales, suggesting that overseas sales may take a back seat as the domestic market absorbs more of the available fibre.
Taken together, the higher import forecast, rising local consumption and softer exports indicate a shift in India’s cotton trade pattern for 2025-26. The latest CAI projection suggests the market may rely more heavily on imports to meet internal demand through the season.
