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Brazil's record cotton productionBrazil reinforced its position as the world’s leading cotton exporter after achieving a record-breaking 2024/25 harvest. According to the Brazilian Cotton Growers Association (Abrapa), the country produced around **3.92 million tons** of cotton, the highest output in its history, supported by expanded planting and improved productivity.The planted area reached approximately 2.12 million hectares, more than 6% higher than the previous season. Combined with favorable weather, advanced farming techniques, and high yields, this increase enabled Brazil to harvest significantly more cotton while maintaining the premium fiber quality for which it is internationally recognized.Strong production translated into record exports. According to CNN Brasil, Brazil was expected to ship around **2.8 million tons** of cotton during the 2024/25 season, maintaining its status as the world’s largest cotton exporter. While most of the harvest was destined for international markets, a substantial share continued to supply the domestic textile industry.It is important to distinguish between production and exports. Production refers to the total cotton harvested, whereas exports represent only the volume shipped overseas. The difference reflects the fiber consumed within Brazil by manufacturers and textile companies.The record harvest highlights the competitiveness of Brazilian agriculture. With large-scale production, consistent quality, and efficient logistics, Brazil has strengthened its role in the global cotton market. The sector supports thousands of jobs across farming, processing, and transportation while contributing billions to the economy and reinforcing the country’s trade balance. The 2024/25 season confirms Brazil’s growing influence as a global cotton powerhouse.READ MORE :- Cotton Cultivation in Punjab Falls to 80,000 Hectares; National Production Declines Over Six Years

Cotton Cultivation in Punjab Shrinks to 80,000 Hectares; Nationwide Production Declines Over Six YearsBathinda: Cotton cultivation in Punjab is steadily declining, with the area under cultivation dropping to a record low of approximately 80,000 hectares in the 2026-27 season. Data presented by Union Minister of State for Textiles Pabitra Margherita in response to a question by Rajya Sabha MP Pramod Tiwari reveals a consistent decline in both cotton acreage and production across the country over the past six years.According to data from an April 2026 meeting of the committee on cotton production and consumption, the total area under cotton cultivation in the country stood at 132.85 lakh hectares in 2020-21, falling to 114.82 lakh hectares by 2025-26. During the same period, cotton production dropped from 352.48 lakh bales to 290.91 lakh bales (one bale weighs 170 kg).A decline in cotton productivity has also been recorded at the national level. Production per hectare fell from 451 kg in 2020-21 to 431 kg in 2025-26, although productivity had reached 443 kg per hectare in 2022-23.The decline has been more pronounced in Punjab. The state's cotton acreage stood at 1.19 lakh hectares in 2025-26 but shrank to just 80,000 hectares in 2026-27. Although the state government had set a target of 1.25 lakh hectares to promote cotton cultivation, farmers achieved only about 64 percent of this goal. Experts attribute the shrinking cotton area to farmers shifting towards other crops that offer better returns. The decline in cotton production has also impacted the textile industry. There has been a significant rise in raw cotton imports to meet the demands of the domestic industry; imports increased from 5,62,224 tonnes in 2024-25 to 10,13,455 tonnes in 2025-26.The Union Minister attributed the drop in production primarily to changes in land use and farmers shifting towards alternative crops. He stated that the government is taking several measures to support the textile industry. These include an exemption on the 11 percent import duty for raw cotton from June 1 to October 31, as well as the continuation of duty exemptions on the import of high-quality extra-long staple cotton.READ MORE :- Maharashtra Kharif Sowing 2026 Reaches 74%; Soybean and Cotton Lead Crop Choices

Maharashtra Kharif Sowing 2026: Sowing Completed on 74% of Area; Soybean and Cotton Top Farmers' Choices; Pulse Cultivation DeclinesSowing operations for the 2026 Kharif season in Maharashtra have gained momentum following good rainfall during the second half of July. According to the latest data from the Agriculture Department, sowing has been completed on 1.06 crore hectares—approximately 74 percent—of the state's average Kharif area of 1.44 crore hectares. While farmers initially faced uncertainty due to a weak monsoon start, timely rains have pushed sowing into its final stages across most regions.A look at the regional breakdown reveals that the Amravati division leads with 89 percent sowing completion. It is followed by Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (79%), Nashik (78%), Latur (77%), Kolhapur (63%), and Nagpur and Pune (61% each). In contrast, the Konkan division has recorded only 15 percent sowing so far, due to scanty rainfall and a heavy reliance on paddy cultivation.This year, farmers have shown a marked preference for cash crops. Sowing for soybean and cotton has reached 88 percent and 82 percent completion, respectively. Soybean has been cultivated across approximately 41.64 lakh hectares; farmers have been drawn to these crops by better market rates for cotton and the expectation of good prices for soybean. Conversely, pulse sowing has fallen short of expectations. While sowing for Tur (pigeon pea), Moong (green gram), and Urad (black gram) has reached 77, 56, and 59 percent respectively, the total pulse cultivation area covered stands at only 64 percent.Paddy sowing is also proceeding slowly. Due to rainfall deficits in Konkan and Eastern Vidarbha, replanting operations have reached only 24 percent completion. Meanwhile, challenges such as the need for re-sowing in certain districts, shortages of seeds and fertilizers, and weather uncertainty continue to confront farmers. Agricultural experts believe that late-sown crops will be harvested in October-November; consequently, retreating rains could affect both yield and quality. The department expects sowing to be completed in the remaining areas as well by the end of July.READ MORE :- CCI Cotton Sales Reach 87.31 Lakh Bales in 2025-26 Season

State-wise CCI Cotton Sales Details – 2025-26 SeasonThe Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) Increased its cotton candy prices by upto ₹800 per candy during this week . CCI has sold approximately 87,30,900 cotton bales for the 2025-26 season. Sales are highly concentrated in a few major cotton-producing states, Maharashtra, Telangana and Gujarat emerging as the leading contributors.2,812,900 bales in Maharashtra2,044,500 bales in Telangana1,584,300 bales in Gujarat6,95,700 bales in Karnataka5,63,100 bales in Madhya Pradesh3,20,800 bales in Rajasthan2,67,500 bales in Odisha2,28,700 bales in Andhra Pradesh1,69,400 bales in Haryanaand 44,000 bales in Punjab.READ MORE :- Rupee Rises 42 Paise to Open at 96.14 Against Dollar.

Rupee opened higher at 96.14/$.The Sensex was up 302.14 points or 0.40 percent at 76,361.91, and the Nifty was up 23.05 points or 0.10 percent at 23,790.50.On Monday, the Indian rupee opened 42 paise higher at 96.14 against the dollar, while it had closed at 96.56 on Friday.READ MORE :- Heavy Rains Threaten Cotton Crops in Gujarat and Rajasthan, Fields Waterlogged

Heavy Rains Threaten Cotton Crops in Thangadh (Gujarat) and Sarupsar (Rajasthan); Fields WaterloggedPersistent heavy rainfall has compounded difficulties for farmers in the Thangadh area of Gujarat's Surendranagar district and the Sarupsar (Suratgarh) region of Rajasthan's Sri Ganganagar district. Waterlogging in the fields has submerged cotton and *narma* (soft cotton) crops, raising the risk of rot and spoilage.In Gungliyana village of Thangadh Taluka, continuous rain has led to water accumulation in the fields. Due to the lack of proper drainage systems, there is a fear of significant damage to the cotton crop. Meanwhile, in the Dalvadi Nagar area of Thangadh town, waterlogging has caused knee-deep water to accumulate on main roads and in residential areas, disrupting the movement of local residents.Separately, in Sarupsar and surrounding rural areas, farmers are using large tractor-operated pumps to drain water from their fields in a bid to save their crops. Agricultural experts warn that if the water is not drained quickly, the crops could be completely destroyed.Farmers have urged the administration to conduct a crop damage survey in the affected areas, provide adequate compensation, and ensure a permanent drainage solution for the future.READ MORE :- India’s Cotton Production Seen Falling to 290.91 Lakh Bales in FY26

India's cotton production projected to fall to 290.91 lakh bales in FY26 due to reduced cultivation areaNew Delhi: The government informed Parliament on Friday that India's cotton production is projected to decline to 290.91 lakh bales in the 2025-26 fiscal year, down from 352.48 lakh bales in 2020-21. However, cotton productivity did not see a significant change during this period, remaining within the range of 428 to 451 kilograms per hectare.Minister of State for Textiles Pabitra Margherita stated in the Rajya Sabha that the primary reason for the drop in production is the reduction in the area under cotton cultivation. Many farmers have shifted to other, more profitable crops, leading to a decrease in the cotton sowing area.According to government data, the area under cotton cultivation stood at 132.85 lakh hectares in 2020-21 and declined to 114.82 lakh hectares in 2025-26.The ministry reported that cotton prices in the international market have risen by approximately 19 percent, while prices for the S-6 variety in the domestic market have increased by about 18 percent. The Minister noted that raw cotton and cotton yarn are imported when necessary to maintain domestic availability.According to the government, the country's cotton requirements are being met through estimated production, carry-over stocks, and imports. Cotton availability and market conditions are being continuously monitored.The government has taken several measures to support the textile industry. These include an exemption from the 11 percent import duty on raw cotton from June 1, 2026, to October 31, 2026. Additionally, the import duty exemption on Extra Long Staple (ELS) cotton—effective since February 20, 2024—has been continued to ensure the availability of high-quality cotton. The government has approved the Cotton Productivity Mission (Kapas Kranti) for the period 2026-27 to 2030-31 with the aim of enhancing cotton productivity and improving quality. This mission will focus on increasing production, promoting new technologies, and developing superior-quality fiber.The government has also made special provisions for ‘new-age fibers’ within the approved Cotton Productivity Mission for 2026-31. Furthermore, the National Fiber Mission—announced in the 2026-27 budget—emphasizes boosting the production of cotton and other fibers, as well as developing an Indian fiber brand.READ MORE :- Light Rain Brings Relief to Yadgir Farmers, Raises Hopes for Better Kharif Yield

Light Rain Brings Relief to Farmers in Karnataka's Yadgir; Hopes for Better Yield RiseLight rainfall over the past few days in Karnataka's Yadgir district has brought smiles of relief to farmers' faces. Due to below-normal rainfall so far this monsoon, Kharif crops in several parts of the district had begun to suffer from a lack of moisture. Farmers were worried as key crops like cotton, red gram (tur), and green gram (moong) were wilting, but the recent rain has acted as a lifeline for the crops. Farmers are now hopeful that if the spell of rain continues in the coming days, they could achieve a good yield this season.According to Agriculture Department data, sowing of Kharif crops across 241,682 hectares had been completed in the district by Friday, against a total seasonal target of 401,869 hectares. Red gram sowing has been completed on 48,697 hectares—approximately 60.14 percent—of the 84,999-hectare target. Meanwhile, green gram sowing has been recorded on 9,153 hectares against a target of 13,770 hectares. Sowing of cotton, the district's major cash crop, has been completed on 179,410 hectares against a target of 202,452 hectares.Insufficient rainfall had prevented adequate moisture retention in the fields, causing crop growth to stall. Farmer Vijay Gulgi stated that the recent light rain has increased soil moisture and provided relief to the standing crops. He believes that if intermittent rainfall continues, production could improve.Cotton is the second most widely cultivated crop in Yadgir district, after paddy. Although most farmers rely on canal water for irrigation, the district administration had already clarified—in view of drought-like conditions—that water from the Basavasagar reservoir would be reserved solely for human and livestock consumption and would not be made available for irrigation.Cotton farmer Chandrashekhar Gowda Bilwar, who depends on water from the Krishna Bhagya Jala Nigam Limited (KBJNL) canals, stated that the crops had begun to wither after just the first round of weeding due to a lack of rainfall. He noted that recent light showers have breathed new life into the crops, and he is now hopeful of a good yield this season rather than facing significant losses.According to official data, Yadgir district recorded 24 percent less rainfall than normal between June 1 and July 24. Despite this, the recent rains have somewhat alleviated farmers' concerns and revived hopes for a better harvest.READ MORE :- India Completes WTO Trade Policy Review, Highlights Tariff Reforms and FTA Strategy

India Completes WTO Trade Policy Review; Emphasizes Tariff Reforms and FTA StrategyIndia has concluded the second and final session of its eighth Trade Policy Review (TPR) at the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Geneva. With this, the periodic review of India's trade and related policies—conducted under the WTO's transparency and monitoring mechanism—has been completed.This review is significant for exporters, importers, and manufacturers in the textile and apparel sectors, as it addressed key policy areas affecting market access and supply-chain planning. These included tariff reforms, measures to streamline customs procedures, Free Trade Agreement (FTA) strategies, technical regulations, Quality Control Orders (QCOs), and trade remedies.During the review process, India received a total of 1,094 written questions from 44 WTO members. Additionally, 68 WTO members shared their views during the two review sessions held on July 21 and 23, 2026.The Indian delegation was led by Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal. He stated that trade reform is a continuous process and reaffirmed India's commitment to an open, transparent, and predictable trade and investment regime.He noted that India's tariff reforms, measures to simplify customs procedures, and FTA strategies have not only supported the country's domestic development goals but also strengthened its integration with the global economy.Responding to queries raised by WTO members, Agrawal stated that India's trade policies are guided by WTO-consistent principles while also addressing the developmental needs of a large developing economy.He explained that the tariff structure for the agricultural sector aims to protect the interests of small, low-income, and resource-constrained farmers, whereas industrial tariffs support supply-chain resilience, diversification, and domestic manufacturing capabilities. He reiterated India's commitment to transparency, stakeholder consultation, and adherence to WTO rules regarding Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures, technical regulations, and trade measures.He also stated that India's Quality Control Orders (QCOs) aim to achieve legitimate public policy objectives, while trade measures are examined transparently based on solid evidence, due process, and judicial oversight.During the review, WTO members appreciated India's efforts regarding digital public infrastructure, the modernization of customs and trade facilitation, innovation and startup initiatives, regional trade agreements, and the integration of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) into global value chains. Members also welcomed India's acceptance of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies.On the issue of WTO reforms, India reiterated its support for an open, inclusive, transparent, and rules-based multilateral trading system. India also emphasized that future reforms should be development-centric, preserve adequate policy space for developing countries, and fulfill the WTO's existing mandates.READ MORE :- CCI Raises Cotton Prices by ₹800 per Candy, Weekly Sales Reach 2.26 Lakh Bales

CCI Raises Cotton Candy Prices by ₹800, Weekly Auctions Reach 2.26 Lakh BalesThe Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) increased its cotton selling prices by ₹800 per candy during the week ended July 24, 2026, amid strong participation from textile mills and cotton traders.CCI recorded total sales of approximately 2,26,100 bales from the 2025–26 cotton crop during the week, with the highest auction activity witnessed on Thursday.Day-Wise CCI Auction PerformanceJuly 20, 2026 (Monday):The week opened with sales of 21,900 bales. Mills purchased 6,100 bales, while traders bought 15,800 bales.July 21, 2026 (Tuesday):CCI auction sales stood at 26,600 bales, including 9,200 bales purchased by mills and 17,400 bales lifted by traders.July 22, 2026 (Wednesday):Auction activity strengthened, with total sales rising to 52,700 bales. Mills purchased 21,300 bales, while traders bought 31,400 bales.July 23, 2026 (Thursday):CCI recorded the highest sales of the week, with 98,300 bales sold. Mills purchased 24,000 bales, while traders lifted 74,300 bales.July 24, 2026 (Friday):The week concluded with sales of 26,600 bales. Mills purchased 12,900 bales, while traders bought 13,700 bales.CCI Cotton Sales Cross 87.30 Lakh BalesFollowing the latest auctions, CCI's cumulative cotton sales for the 2025–26 season reached approximately 87,30,900 bales.READ MORE :- Cotton Market Rallies Nationwide

Cotton market rallies nationwide amidst arrivals of just 3,070 bales; CCI auction in focus – Read the full reportToday, July 24, 2026, the Indian cotton market witnessed a strong upward trend across all major regions. Cotton prices rose by ₹50 per maund in North India, ₹200–500 per candy in Central India, and ₹300–500 per candy in South India. Meanwhile, total all-India cotton arrivals stood at approximately 3,070 bales, reflecting the limited availability of the old crop.Several key factors contributed to the market's strength. Sentiment in the Indian market remained positive due to gains in the international ICE Cotton market for the fourth consecutive trading session. Additionally, the consistent 100% sales in China's reserve cotton auctions sustained strong global demand.On the other hand, the extremely low arrival of the old crop across the country has limited available stocks. Concurrently, the availability of good-quality cotton is dwindling, prompting spinning mills and traders to offer higher prices for premium-quality stock. Active buying by mills, growing interest from traders, and the positive global environment fostered by China's reserve cotton auctions further bolstered the market.Amidst this, the Cotton Corporation of India's (CCI) e-auction today also drew significant market attention. CCI offered 7,068,00 bales of cotton for sale. Sales totaled 12,900 bales in the mill session and 13,700 bales in the trader session, resulting in a total sale of 26,600 bales for the day. With this, the cumulative sales by CCI up to July 24, 2026, have reached 87,30,900 bales.A bullish trend prevails in the Indian cotton market during the final phase of the season, driven by limited arrivals, sustained mill buying, and positive signals from the global market.In the coming days, the market's direction will primarily depend on the movement of ICE Cotton, domestic demand, and the progress of the new crop.read more :- The rupee higher by 7 paise against the dollar to close at 96.56.