Washington, DC — March 4, 2025
Cotton farmers in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres are currently facing significant challenges in making planting decisions due to growing uncertainties. Factors such as climate variability, water availability, and price projections are playing a critical role in shaping these decisions.
Challenges in the Northern Hemisphere
Growers in the United States, India, and China are contending with increasingly unpredictable weather patterns, including prolonged droughts and excessive rainfall. As a result, many farmers are relying on advanced climate models to determine optimal planting windows. Water availability remains a major concern, particularly in regions like Texas, USA, and Gujarat, India, which are already water-stressed.
Opportunities and Challenges in the Southern Hemisphere
In the Southern Hemisphere, cotton planting decisions typically occur from September to December. Brazil has seen an expansion in arable land, particularly in the Cerrado region, by utilizing degraded pastureland for high-yield cotton production. The country’s distinct wet and dry seasons also reduce risks associated with excessive rain during harvest. However, other countries like Australia and Argentina face challenges such as water allocation restrictions and unpredictable weather patterns.
Price Projections for 2024/25
The Secretariat’s current price forecast for the season-average A index ranges from 92.00 to 97.00 cents per pound, with a midpoint of 94.00 cents per pound.
Access to Up-to-Date Data
For the latest statistics, we recommend using the ICAC Data Dashboard, which is continuously updated to reflect new information. Please note that the Dashboard is currently unavailable but will be restored soon. The cotton balance sheets have also been moved to the Data Dashboard to minimize errors and ensure timely access to accurate data.
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The next edition of Cotton This Month will be released on April 1, 2025.