This statistic shows the average cotton price per pound as received by U.S. farmers from 2007 to 2024. In the 2023 calendar year, a U.S. cotton farmer received an average price of 79 cents per one pound of upland cotton.

Cotton decreased 2.70 USd/Lbs or 3.95% since the beginning of 2025, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. Cotton - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on March of 2025.

In the fourth quarter of 2023, the price of cotton in the United States reached 4070 USD/MT by December. Similarly, in China, the cotton prices hit 2065 USD/MT in the same month. Germany also saw cotton prices reaching 2635 USD/MT during Q4 2023.

This statistic shows the upland spot cotton price per pound in the United States from 1990 to 2018. In calendar year 2017, the average spot price per one pound of upland cotton was about 86.4 U.S. cents.

In the 2020 calendar year, the global average price of cotton - from a selection of the principal upland cottons - stood at 64.3 U.S. cents per pound. The global price of cotton was at its peak in the 2011 crop year, with an average price of 136 cents per pound.

Cotton in the U.S.
The average farm price in the United States received by cotton growers, has been growing in the past few years. The United States is the leading global cotton exporter, and is among the leading cotton producers worldwide after India and China. As of 2017/2018, the United States produced about 17 percent of cotton globally.

Cottonseeds market
Worldwide cottonseed production amounted to about 43.5 million metric tons in 2018/2019, decreasing from around 45 million metric tons in the previous year. In that year, India and China were by far the main cottonseed producers worldwide, followed by Pakistan and Brazil.

United States Inflation Nowcast: Contribution: Commodity Prices: Cotton Futures: ICE: Settlement Price: 1st Month data was reported at 0.107 % in 03 Mar 2025. This stayed constant from the previous number of 0.107 % for 24 Feb 2025. United States Inflation Nowcast: Contribution: Commodity Prices: Cotton Futures: ICE: Settlement Price: 1st Month data is updated weekly, averaging 0.004 % from Jun 2020 (Median) to 03 Mar 2025, with 249 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 39.476 % in 18 Nov 2024 and a record low of 0.000 % in 03 Feb 2025. United States Inflation Nowcast: Contribution: Commodity Prices: Cotton Futures: ICE: Settlement Price: 1st Month data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by CEIC Data. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.CEIC.NC: CEIC Nowcast: Inflation: Headline.

Graph and download economic data for Global price of Cotton (PCOTTINDUSDM) from Jan 1990 to Feb 2025 about cotton, World, and price.

Cotton prices jumped by +13% to $2.59 per kg in October 2021, according to World Bank's data. Global supply shows a sign of reduction, as American cotton exports dropped twofold from September to October. Droughts have wiped out a significant part of cotton crops across the U.S., especially in Texas. The U.S. remains the world's leading supplier, accounting for 41% of global cotton lint exports. China, Vietnam, and Pakistan represent key importers of cotton lint from America.

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Cotton Market Size 2025-2029

The cotton market size is forecast to increase by USD 8.69 billion at a CAGR of 3.2% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is a significant contributor to the global economy, providing livelihoods for millions and supporting economic growth. Being the most commonly used natural fiber in textile production along with eco fiber, it accounts for one-third of all fibers produced worldwide. Cottonseed oil is among the diverse products derived from cotton, impacting export volumes and market trends. However, the industry faces challenges, including the adoption of new technologies by companies to enhance productivity and sustainability, as well as the overconsumption of water due to poor management and water pollution. These issues can negatively impact the market's growth and sustainability.
Moreover, the increasing demand for organic and sustainably produced cotton is a key trend driving market growth. Companies are responding by investing in sustainable farming practices and developing innovative technologies to reduce water usage and improve water management. Moreover, the rising popularity of Sleepwear and Loungewear, especially made from organic cotton, is further contributing to the market's expansion as consumers seek eco-friendly and comfortable clothing options. Overall, the market's future growth depends on the industry's ability to address these challenges and capitalize on emerging trends.

What will be the Size of the Cotton Market During the Forecast Period?

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The market encompasses Over-the-Counter (OTC) trading of cotton futures and options-based solutions, providing risk management tools for global textile mills and apparel manufacturing markets. Price volatility is a significant challenge In the market, impacting margins and long-term profitability. Our consulting and advisory services offer a strategic edge, enabling clients to navigate this complex market. Global cotton production and consumption are key drivers, with export demand for cotton fibers, yarn, and textile products influencing export volume in metric tons. 



Traditional diapers and garments are significant end-use industries, with apparel manufacturing markets showing consistent growth. Cotton fibers are a crucial raw material for the textile industry, making effective risk management essential for maintaining a competitive edge. Our team of experts stays updated on the latest market trends and developments to provide valuable insights and solutions.

How is this Cotton Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The cotton industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Application

  Cotton fiber
  Cotton seed oil
  Cotton seed


Distribution Channel

  Offline
  Online


Geography

  APAC

    China
    India


  Middle East and Africa



  North America

    Canada
    US


  South America



  Europe

    Germany
    UK
    France

By Application Insights

The cotton fiber segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

Cotton, a natural fiber grown in tropical and subtropical regions, is a significant component of the global textile industry. India is the leading producer of cotton, catering to one-third of the world's fiber production. The textile mills and apparel manufacturing sector's expansion fuels the cotton industry's growth. Consumer preferences influence market trends, driving demand for cotton. Despite being an export crop, major processing occurs in countries like China and India. The market experiences fluctuations due to various factors, necessitating strategic planning, and flexibility for stakeholders.

Furthermore, over-the-counter (OTC) trading platforms offer an alternative for managing market risks. Professional consulting and advisory services can provide century-long expertise, helping businesses navigate this market's complexities and secure consistent margins.

Get a glance at the Cotton Industry report of share of various segments. Request Free Sample

The cotton fiber segment was valued at USD 37.14 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 87% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The Asia Pacific (APAC) region is the largest producer of cotton globally, with China being the foremost player. While a significant portion of cotton production in APAC is consumed domestically, Western countries primarily

Graph and download economic data for Producer Price Index by Commodity: Farm Products: Raw Cotton (WPU0151) from Jan 1971 to Feb 2025 about cotton, agriculture, commodities, PPI, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

Annual cotton production in the United States grew from just a few thousand tons at the turn of the 19th century, to fluctuating between 1.6 million and 4.3 million tons throughout most of the 20th century. The amount of space used to produce cotton also grew from three to almost 18 million hectares of land between 1866 and the 1920s, before dropping to around four or five million hectares between the 1960s and 1980s. Despite this drop in land usage, advancements in agricultural technology meant that output remained relatively constant in the 20th century, meaning that output per hectare actually increased significantly.

The mechanical cotton gin's invention in 1793 revolutionized the U.S. cotton industry, which grew exponentially in the early 19th century. Cotton was the U.S.' primary export in these years, and its production was driven by slave labor in the southern states (particularly South Carolina). For the first time, output exceeded one million tons in 1859, and again in 1861, however, the disruption of the American Civil War caused cotton output to drop by over 93 percent in the next three years, to just 68 thousand tons by 1864. Production resumed upon its previous trajectory following the war's end, and many of the former-slaves forced to work on cotton plantations continued to work in the cotton industry, but as sharecroppers who worked the land in exchange for a share of the harvest, as well as housing and facilities (this was similar to tenant farming, although sharecroppers received a smaller share of the crop and had fewer legal protections).

The U.S. cotton lint market was finally on the rise to reach $19.4B in 2024, after two years of decline. Over the period under review, consumption, however, recorded a slight contraction. Over the period under review, the market attained the maximum level at $25.2B in 2017; however, from 2018 to 2024, consumption remained at a lower figure.

Cotton is a major crop produced in the United States and is also a major export good for the United States. In 2022, around 12.8 million 480-pound bales of cotton were exported from the United States, which was a decrease from about 14.5 million bales in the previous year.

Global cotton trade Cotton is an extremely versatile crop and can be used to produce sanitary products, textiles, paper products, among other things. As such, cotton is in high demand worldwide. In the 2021/22 crop year, the United States was the leading exporter of cotton, at 3.4 million metric tons. India was another major exporter of cotton in that time period. The top three destinations for imported cotton in that year were China, Bangladesh, and Vietnam.

Leading cotton producing U.S. states Cotton has been a quintessential cash crop in the United States for centuries, particularly in the American South. In 2022, Texas produced about 3.5 million bales of cotton, which was a larger volume than any other U.S. state. Georgia and Arkansas were the second and third leading producers of cotton in that year, with 1.6 and 1.57 million bales of cotton, respectively.

The U.S. cotton bag market skyrocketed to $50M in 2023, growing by 18% against the previous year. The market value increased at an average annual rate of +4.9% over the period from 2012 to 2023; however, the trend pattern indicated some noticeable fluctuations being recorded throughout the analyzed period. Over the period under review, the market attained the maximum level in 2023 and is likely to continue growth in the immediate term.

This data product contains data on U.S. cotton and wool supply, demand, and prices, as well as U.S. cotton and textile trade data, maintained by the Economic Research Service to support related commodity market analysis and research.

Graph and download economic data for Export Price Index (Harmonized System): Cotton (ID52) from Dec 1992 to Feb 2025 about cotton, fabrication, harmonized, exports, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

The Report Covers Cotton Market Demand Forecast Segmented by Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle East & Africa). The Report Includes Production Analysis (Volume), Consumption Analysis (Value and Volume), Export Analysis (Value and Volume), Import Analysis (Value and Volume), and Price Trend Analysis. The Report Offers the Market Size and Forecasts in Terms of Volume in Metric Tons and Value in USD for all the Above Segments.

North American Cotton Seed Treatment Market size was valued to be USD 1.2 Billion in 2024 and it is expected to reach USD 2.5 Billion in 2031, at a CAGR of 10.3% from 2024 to 2031.

North American Cotton Seed Treatment Market Drivers

Expanding of Cotton Production Areas: The expansion of cotton production areas, driven by factors like increasing demand for cotton textiles and rising global cotton prices, fuels the need for seed treatments to ensure optimal crop yields.
Increasing Government Support Initiatives: Government initiatives aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and supporting farmers, such as subsidies and crop insurance programs, encourage the adoption of advanced agricultural technologies, including seed treatments.
Advancement in Seed Treatment Technology: The development of innovative seed treatment technologies, such as the use of nanotechnology, biopesticides, and formulations with improved efficacy and reduced environmental impact, is driving market growth.
Rising Insects and Pests Infestation: The increasing prevalence of insect pests and diseases, such as bollworms, aphids, and fungal diseases, necessitates the use of effective seed treatments to protect crops from damage.
Adoption of Hybrids and Genetically Modified Crops: The adoption of hybrid and genetically modified (GM) cotton varieties, while offering inherent resistance to certain pests and diseases, may still require complementary seed treatments for optimal crop protection.

North America Cotton Market size was valued at USD 13.47 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 19.86 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 4.97% from 2026-2032.

North America Cotton Market: Definition/ Overview

North America cotton is predominantly produced in the United States, Mexico, and sections of Canada. It is a valuable agricultural commodity utilized in the textile, garment, and manufacturing sectors. North American cotton is utilized in a variety of applications, including garments and home textiles, as well as industrial items such as medical supplies and automobile textiles. The region is well-known for producing high-quality cotton that matches global demand for both conventional and organic varieties.

The future of North American cotton looks bright, thanks to rising demand for sustainable and organic textiles, advances in cotton farming practices, and the growing popularity of eco-friendly fashion.

This statistic shows the total value of cotton production in the U.S. from 2000 to 2023. In 2023, the value of production stood at around 4.64 billion U.S. dollars. The United States were ranked as third leading cotton producing country worldwide in 2022/2023.