United States Cotton Market Size and Forecast 2025–2033

The United States Cotton Market is expected to reach US$ 15.78 billion by 2033, rising from US$ 12.94 billion in 2024, and expanding at a CAGR of 2.23% from 2025 to 2033, according to Renub Research.

With Texas leading national output, the U.S. cotton sector remains a cornerstone of American agriculture—one shaped by global demand, evolving climate patterns, technological transformation, and a rising tide of sustainability expectations.

Cotton has long been intertwined with the country’s economic history, and today it remains one of the most valuable agricultural commodities in the United States. As demand for high-quality fiber strengthens across global textile hubs—particularly in China, Pakistan, Vietnam, and Bangladesh—the U.S. continues to hold a strategic position as a reliable producer and exporter. Production volumes, however, remain highly sensitive to weather volatility and global trade policies, making adaptability and innovation critical for long-term growth.

This article presents a comprehensive editorial-style overview of the U.S. cotton sector, grounded in market data and enriched with industry insight—tailored for Vocal publication and optimized for reader engagement.

United States Cotton Industry Overview

The U.S. is consistently ranked among the world’s top producers and exporters of cotton, contributing billions of dollars annually to the national economy. Production is heavily concentrated in the South, with Texas, Georgia, Mississippi, Arkansas, and North Carolina forming the core of the cotton belt.

Most U.S. cotton belongs to the upland variety, known for its versatility and widespread use in clothing and home textiles. The country also produces extra-long staple (ELS) cotton, primarily in California, prized for premium applications such as luxury linens and high-end fashion.

Production Snapshot

Upland Cotton: Represents 99% of planted acreage (USDA, 2023).

Top Producer: Texas contributes around 40% of total U.S. cotton production.

Output: The U.S. produced 12.07 million bales in the 2023–2024 marketing year, ranking fourth globally.

In recent years, advancements in:

precision agriculture,

robotic harvesting,

drought-resistant seed genetics,

and sustainable farming technologies

have helped boost productivity even amid widespread climatic stress.

Meanwhile, federal programs such as crop insurance and commodity support continue to play a stabilizing role, helping farmers navigate unpredictable weather and fluctuating global prices.

Global Demand and the U.S. Export Engine

Cotton is one of America’s most export-oriented crops, with approximately 80% of U.S. production shipped overseas. Strong, consistent demand from global textile hubs sustains the industry’s revenue base, with:

China,

Pakistan,

Vietnam, and

Bangladesh

collectively accounting for more than half of U.S. cotton exports.

The U.S. also benefits from its reputation for:

consistent fiber quality,

reliable supply,

and robust fiber classification systems that enhance buyer confidence.

International fashion cycles, rising consumer spending, and the expansion of textile manufacturing in emerging economies are set to drive continued demand for American cotton through 2033.

Sustainability: The New Competitive Frontier

As concerns over microplastics and fast fashion impact grow, global brands are increasingly shifting toward eco-friendly, biodegradable natural fibers. Cotton—especially sustainably grown cotton—has emerged as a preferred alternative to synthetic fabrics such as polyester.

In the U.S., initiatives like the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol are advancing the sector’s sustainability agenda through:

traceability programs,

reduced water usage,

improved land management practices,

and transparent reporting frameworks.

Major international retailers now integrate certified sustainable cotton into their supply chains, boosting the value of U.S. fiber in global markets. As environmental awareness grows, the demand for responsibly produced, U.S.-grown cotton is expected to strengthen significantly.

Challenges Affecting the U.S. Cotton Market

1. Climate Volatility

Cotton is highly weather-sensitive, and climate variability remains the biggest structural challenge to U.S. growers. Severe droughts, particularly in Texas, have led to substantial crop losses in multiple seasons. Extreme weather events—including hurricanes, flooding, and early frosts—also impact yields and fiber quality.

To counter these risks, the industry is investing in:

water-efficient irrigation systems,

resilient seed varieties,

climate-adaptive crop management,

and advanced soil monitoring technologies.

2. Trade Uncertainty and Global Competition

The U.S. cotton export market is vulnerable to:

geopolitical tensions,

tariffs,

and sudden policy changes by major buyers.

Nations such as India, Brazil, and Uzbekistan also compete aggressively with lower production costs and strong government backing.

The U.S. continues to maintain competitive advantage through quality, reliability, and sustainable certification—but diversifying its export markets and strengthening international relationships will be vital in the coming decade.

United States Cotton Market By State

Below is a picture of the market landscape for key U.S. states included in the Renub Research report.

California Cotton Market

California plays a niche but important role as the nation’s primary producer of ELS (Pima) cotton. Known for its exceptional strength and softness, Pima cotton is used in premium textile products.

However, the state’s cotton acreage has declined due to:

chronic droughts,

stringent environmental rules,

water scarcity,

and competition from high-value crops like almonds and pistachios.

Despite challenges, California remains indispensable for high-quality specialty fiber.

Texas Cotton Market

Texas accounts for over 40% of U.S. cotton production, making it the epicenter of the cotton industry. Its massive land area and established agricultural infrastructure allow large-scale cultivation, especially in the High Plains region.

Recurring droughts and inconsistent rainfall pose ongoing challenges. Yet, with strong export demand and innovations in farm technology, Texas is expected to maintain its leadership role through 2033.

New York Cotton Market

Though New York produces no cotton, it holds strategic importance through:

global fashion leadership,

textile design centers,

commodity trading hubs, and

major apparel brands driving cotton demand.

New York’s role is economic, commercial, and symbolic—shaping consumer trends that ultimately influence cotton supply chains nationwide.

Florida Cotton Market

Florida’s cotton production is modest but regionally important, concentrated mostly in the Panhandle. The state primarily grows upland cotton, supporting local economies.

Hurricanes and unpredictable weather remain obstacles, but improved seed varieties and modern farming techniques are gradually enhancing yield stability.

Recent Developments in the U.S. Cotton Market

June 2024: During a Cotton Council International (CCI) gathering in New Delhi, U.S. and Indian textile leaders spotlighted the increasing preference among Indian spinners for U.S. cotton. Discussions highlighted a deepening trade partnership that benefits both nations—strengthening the supply chain for India’s textile manufacturing and supporting U.S. export growth.

Market Segmentations Covered (2025–2033)

All states are analyzed from four perspectives:

Production

Consumption

Import

Export

States Included:

California, Texas, New York, Florida, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Georgia, New Jersey, Washington, North Carolina, Massachusetts, Virginia, Michigan, Maryland, Colorado, Tennessee, Indiana, Arizona, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Missouri, Connecticut, South Carolina, Oregon, Louisiana, Alabama, Kentucky, and the Rest of the U.S.

Key Companies Profiled

The report includes an in-depth company analysis featuring:

Aarti International Limited

Coats Group plc

Damodar Group

Fortex

Huafang Group

KPR Mill Limited

Maharaja Shree Umaid Mills Limited

Nahar Spinning Mills

Nitin Spinners Ltd.

Weiqiao Textile Co. Ltd. (Shandong Weiqiao Pioneering Group)

Each profile includes:

Company overview

Key executives

SWOT analysis

Recent developments

Revenue performance

Final Thoughts

The U.S. cotton market is entering a new era—one shaped by technology, sustainability, global demand, and climate realities. Despite challenges, the sector is fortified by decades of innovation, a strong export ecosystem, and rising demand for natural fibers.

As traceability and ethical sourcing become global norms, the U.S. cotton industry is well-positioned to maintain steady, competitive growth through 2033. The combination of resilient farmers, advanced agricultural tools, and strong global partnerships ensures cotton will remain a cornerstone of American agriculture and a vital part of the worldwide textile economy.