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Cotton Fibre Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 11151501
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âźł Weekly Update
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Historical Data Since 2015
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Forecast for 2026
  • Commodity Pricing

cotton fibre Price Trends by Country

usUnited States
brBrazil
inIndia
cnChina
pkPakistan

Global cotton fibre Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

Price-Watch’s most active coverage of Cotton Fibre price assessment:

  • China Cotton Index 3128B (28 mm) Ex-Zhengzhou, China
  • China Cotton Index 2227B (27 mm) Ex-Zhengzhou, China
  • China Cotton Index 2129B (29 mm) Ex-Zhengzhou, China
  • Cotlook A Index 28 mm CFR Far East Asia, Far East Asia
  • Brazil Cotton Index (CEPEA/ESALQ) 24 mm Ex-SĂŁo Paulo, Brazil
  • Shankar-6 – Gujarat 29 mm Ex-Gin Gujarat, India
  • KCA Spot Rate 27 mm Ex-Gin Karachi, Pakistan

Cotton Fibre Price Trend Q3 2025

In Q3 2025, the global cotton fibre price trend has been mixed but generally stable. The price trend of the Cotlook A Index, a key international benchmark, has been up by about 0.4% from the previous quarter, supported by steady global demand, though in September 2025, Cotlook A Index prices have been around USD 1720 per metric ton, reflecting a slight 0.7% easing.

Cotton Fibre price trends in China and India have been upward, driven by strong domestic consumption and stable textile operations, whereas Pakistan and Brazil have been experiencing a downward trend due to softer demand and abundant supply. Despite these regional differences, the overall global price trend has been cautiously optimistic, underpinned by steady trade flows, resilient downstream demand, and balanced supply conditions heading into the final quarter of 2025.

Brazil

Cotton fibre domestic prices Brazil, Grade- Brazil Cotton Index (CEPEA/ESALQ) 24 mm Ex-SĂŁo Paulo.

In Q3 2025, Cotton fibre prices in Brazil have fallen sharply by approximately 5% compared to the previous quarter, with the downward trend continuing into September, when prices have dropped another 5% month-on-month. The Cotton fibre price trend in Brazil has remained consistently negative, primarily driven by the advancement of the 2024/25 cotton harvest, which boosted supply and prompted sellers to reduce quotations. In September 2025, cotton fibre prices in Brazil have been around USD 1470 /MT, reflecting this decline. Furthermore, the weakening of the Brazilian real against the U.S. dollar has added additional pressure on domestic prices.

China

Cotton fibre domestic prices China, Grade- China Cotton Index 3128B (28 mm) Ex-Zhengzhou.

During Q3 2025, cotton fibre prices in China increased around 7%, quarter-on-quarter, confirming the strength of the domestic market. The Cotton fibre price trend in China has been upwards, and in September 2025, cotton fibre prices in China have assessed at approximately USD 2150-2180/MT, reflecting a 0.9% increase from the previous month.

This increase has been supported by robust demand for quality cotton, and stable macroeconomic conditions, which helped sustain the textile industry. In addition, government policies (e.g., some subsidies for farmers) have bolstered market confidence. Regional supply has been tight, along with improved buying from textile mills further contributing to the increase in prices.

India

Cotton fibre domestic prices Gujarat (India), Grade- Shankar-6 – Gujarat 29 mm Ex-Gin Gujarat.

According to Price-Watch, in Q3 2025, cotton fibre prices in Gujarat have recorded a moderate rise of around 4% from the previous quarter, trading between 1810-1815 USD/MT, supported by steady domestic demand and limited regional supply. The Cotton Fibre price trend has been generally upward, indicating a firm market tone. However, in September 2025, cotton prices have eased to approximately 1740–1760 USD/MT, declining about 2% due to anticipated cotton imports and a cautious outlook within the textile industry amid higher raw material costs.

Government measures, such as the extension of zero-duty import facilities, have also contributed to this short-term correction. Overall, the quarter has reflected an upward trajectory for cotton prices in India, tempered by brief market adjustments, highlighting the combined impact of supply dynamics, policy interventions, and demand trends.

Pakistan

Cotton fibre domestic prices Ex-Gin Karachi, Pakistan, Grade- KCA Spot Rate 27 mm.

During the third quarter of 2025, cotton fibre prices in Pakistan experienced a decline of approximately 4%, signalling a softness in the cotton fibre market. The Cotton Fibre price trend in Pakistan has been following a lower trajectory. And quarterly data shows that cotton fibre prices in Pakistan settled at approximately 1480–1485 USD/MT in September 2025, around 3% lower than the previous month. Easing price pressures have been stemming from lower domestic demand, and increased competitive pressures from cotton imports, as well as broader underlying macroeconomic conditions impacting textile production on the whole.

Cotton Fibre Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to the PriceWatch, in Q2 2025, the cotton fibre benchmark, Cotlook A Index (28 mm CFR Far East Asia), averaged 1724 USD/MT, a slight 0.27% rise from the previous quarter, effectively halting the persistent downtrend. Supply conditions remained comfortable, yet global stockpiling was avoided, preventing deeper declines.

Mill demand stayed cautious but steady, supporting trade flows. Balanced export activity from India and West Africa met moderate overseas demand. Market participants described the quarter as one of consolidation rather than recovery, with cotton fibre prices reflecting stability in a subdued phase.

According to the PriceWatch, Shankar-6 (29 mm Ex-Gin Gujarat) cotton prices averaged 632 USD/Candy in Q2 2025, marking a 2.47% recovery QoQ after several declining quarters. Limited recovery in export demand, particularly from Asian buyers, provided some support.

Weather concerns in Gujarat added slight uncertainty, prompting cautious buying by mills. Spinners in the state maintained selective procurement, keeping activity balanced. While prices resisted further falls, Gujarat’s market remained fragile, with recovery prospects dependent on demand revival.

According to the PriceWatch, the cotton fibre benchmark, Cotlook A Index (28 mm CFR Far East Asia), declined further in Q1 2025, averaging 1719 USD/MT, down 4.72% from Q4 2024 and reaching the lowest level in recent quarters. Ample supply from Brazil and the U.S. pressured global markets, while consumption stayed weak as mills operated cautiously amid subdued textile export demand.

Export competitiveness for Asian spinners diminished curbing buying interest. Futures and forward markets reflected a bearish tone throughout the quarter, highlighting a challenging environment as cotton fibre prices touched multi-year lows.

According to the PriceWatch, Shankar-6 (29 mm Ex-Gin Gujarat) cotton prices averaged 617 USD/Candy in Gujarat during Q1 2025, recording a further 5.10% decline QoQ. Heavy arrivals across the state kept supplies ample, while sluggish spinning activity created demand pressure. Mills in Gujarat procured conservatively, citing squeezed yarn margins. Export orders remained weak, leaving ginners with excess stock. The overall tone was bearish, with prices under continuous pressure in Gujarat’s key cotton belts.

Cotton Fibre Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

According to the PriceWatch, Q4 2024 showed a modest recovery, with the cotton fibre benchmark, Cotlook A Index (28 mm CFR Far East Asia), averaging 1805 USD/MT, up 0.65% from Q3 2024. USDA projections of tighter global stocks supported price stabilization, while selective buying from Asian markets and Indian procurement ahead of the new crop cycle provided additional support. Although the index firmed, gains were limited by weak global textile demand. Overall, the quarter reflected cautious optimism, with cotton fibre prices stabilizing.

According to the PriceWatch, In Q4 2024, Shankar-6 (29 mm Ex-Gin Gujarat) cotton prices declined sharply to 650 USD/Candy, down 6.41% QoQ. Fresh arrivals from the new crop in Gujarat flooded the market, weighing heavily on prices. Ginners faced pressure as farmer selling accelerated, while MSP procurement in the state remained minimal. Domestic mills slowed down buying as yarn demand stayed weak. With supplies exceeding consumption, Gujarat’s cotton market turned distinctly bearish, marking the sharpest quarterly fall of the year.

According to the PriceWatch, the cotton fibre benchmark, Cotlook A Index (28 mm CFR Far East Asia), averaged 1793 USD/MT in Q3 2024, a 6.49% decline from Q2 2024, extending the downward trend. Oversupply persisted, with abundant global availability weighing on the market. Asian textile demand remained muted, discouraging forward purchases from mills.

Indian and Pakistani spinners adopted a cautious stance amid weak export orders. Seasonal harvest pressure in producing countries further limited upside. The quarter reflected prolonged weakness, as cotton fibre prices came under sustained selling pressure.

According to the PriceWatch, Local mills stepped in selectively during Q3 2024, with Shankar-6 (29 mm Ex-Gin Gujarat) cotton prices averaging 694 USD/Candy, a 0.63% rise QoQ. Festive season demand for yarn supported procurement by Gujarat-based spinners, which provided some cushion despite weak export activity. However, high yarn inventories limited aggressive buying. The market held a cautious but firm undertone, with Gujarat’s cotton showing slight resilience compared to earlier quarter.

According to the PriceWatch, in Q2 2024, the cotton fibre benchmark, Cotlook A Index (28 mm CFR Far East Asia), fell to an average of 1917 USD/MT, down 9.91% from Q1 2024, indicating a clear correction from earlier gains. Larger arrivals from Brazil and the U.S. weighed heavily on sentiment, while mill demand softened due to excess yarn inventories and squeezed margins.

Chinese buying interest slowed, further dragging down international benchmarks. With shipping disruptions easing, supply normalized. The quarter carried a bearish undertone, with cotton fibre prices under consistent pressure.

According to the PriceWatch, In Q2 2024, Shankar-6 (29 mm Ex-Gin Gujarat) cotton prices averaged 690 USD/Candy, down 0.45% QoQ. The monsoon outlook influenced sentiment, with expectations of a healthy crop ahead keeping buyers cautious. Spinners in Gujarat restricted buying to short-term requirements, avoiding stock accumulation. Ginners reported lower margins due to slow offtake and muted yarn demand. Overall, the Gujarat market stayed stable, though underlying pressure from supply expectations kept the tone slightly soft.

According to the PriceWatch, the cotton fibre benchmark, Cotlook A Index (28 mm CFR Far East Asia), averaged 2128 USD/MT in Q1 2024, a 4.49% increase over Q4 2023, marking a firm performance compared to late 2023. Strong mills demand and limited exportable surplus in several producing countries supported the index.

Logistics constraints and elevated freight costs added to tightness, while Chinese restocking boosted international buying. ICE futures remained steady, reinforcing confidence in physical markets. The quarter reflected a bullish global trend, with cotton fibre prices maintaining strength.

According to the PriceWatch, Shankar-6 (29 mm Ex-Gin Gujarat) cotton prices in Gujarat averaged 693 USD/Candy in Q1 2024, up 1.50% from the previous quarter. Domestic mills in Gujarat supported prices with steady procurement, though purchases were mostly on a need-based basis.

Arrivals remained abundant, capping any major upside for ginners. Export activity was limited, and most of the price support came from domestic consumption. With yarn demand still subdued, Gujarat’s cotton market reflected a stable-to-firm trend without strong bullishness.

Technical Specifications of Cotton Fibre Price Trends

Product Description

Cotton fibre is a natural, soft, and fluffy cellulosic material obtained from the seed hairs of the cotton plant (Gossypium spp.). It is naturally white or creamy in colour and can be spun into yarns and threads of varying thicknesses. Cotton is valued for its breathability, moisture absorption, and comfort, making it a widely utilized fibre in the textile industry.

Identifiers and Classification:

  • HS Code – 5201


Cotton Fibre Synonyms:

  • Raw Cotton
  • Lint Cotton
  • Gossypium Fibre


Cotton Fibre Grades/Indexes – Specific Price Assessment:

  • China Cotton Index 3128B – 28 mm Grade Price
  • China Cotton Index 2227B – 27 mm Grade Price


China Cotton Index 2129B – 29 mm Grade Price

  • Cotlook A Index – 28 mm Grade Price
  • Brazil Cotton Index – 24 mm Grade Price
  • Shankar-6 – Gujarat – 29 mm Grade Price
  • KCA Spot Rate – 27 mm Grade Price


Cotton Fibre Global Trade and Shipment Terms

  • Quotation Terms (Product & Country Specific): 5 MT-10 MT, 80MT -100 MT, 20MT – 30MT
  • Packaging Type (Product & Country Specific): 312.5 Kg Bale, 220 Kg Bale, 170 kg Bale

Incoterms Referenced in Cotton Fibre Price Reporting

Shipping Term  Location  Definition 
Ex-Zhengzhou (Domestic)  Zhengzhou, China  Domestically traded cotton price in China 
Ex-São Paulo  São Paulo, Brazil  Domestically traded cotton price in Brazil 
CFR Far East Asia  Far East Asia (CFR Asia)  Import price delivered to Far East Asia 
Ex-Gujarat  Gujarat, India  Domestically traded cotton price in Gujarat 
Ex-Karachi  Karachi, Pakistan  Local spot rate cotton price in Karachi, Pakistan 

*Quotation Terms refers to the quantity range specified for the Cotton Fibre being quoted or offered in a commercial transaction.

**Packaging Type refers to standard packaging size commonly used for Cotton Fibre packing, ease of handling, transportation, and storage in industrial and commercial applications.

Cotton Manufacturing Countries and Regions

Country  Region 
China  APAC 
India  APAC 
Pakistan  APAC 
Brazil  South America 

Cotton Fibre Industrial Applications

cotton fibre market share end use

 

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Cotton Fibre prices

Indian Cotton Import Duty Exemption (2025): In 2025, the Indian government extended the 11% import duty exemption on cotton to stabilize the textile industry amid raw material shortages. While the policy aimed to support domestic textile manufacturers, it increased the inflow of lower-priced imported cotton, exerting pressure on local cotton prices. Indian cotton producers faced heightened competition, with revenues affected due to market undercutting. This policy decision underscored the delicate balance between fostering industrial growth and safeguarding domestic agricultural interests. Price movements during this period reflected both policy-driven and market-driven influences, emphasizing the sensitivity of the cotton sector to regulatory measures.

COVID-19 Pandemic (2020–2021): The COVID-19 pandemic caused unprecedented disruptions across the global textile and apparel sector, reducing demand for cotton significantly. Lockdowns in major consuming countries, coupled with a decline in retail sales, resulted in a surplus of cotton stocks. Supply chain interruptions and labour shortages added further complexity, creating volatility in pricing. Cotton markets experienced sharp declines as both domestic and international buyers scaled back procurement. The pandemic highlighted the vulnerability of global commodities to sudden economic shocks and emphasized the need for resilient supply chain strategies. Market recovery began gradually as restrictions eased, and production-normalization initiatives were implemented.

U.S.-China Trade War (2018–2020): The U.S.-China trade war created significant disruptions in global cotton trade, with tariffs imposed on a wide range of commodities, including cotton. China, being a major importer, retaliated with tariffs on U.S. cotton, sharply reducing American exports. This led to an oversupply in the U.S. market, exerting downward pressure on cotton prices. Farmers experienced financial strain as production costs remained high while revenues fell. The uncertainty surrounding global trade policies further amplified price volatility. During this period, market sentiment remained cautious, with investors and producers closely monitoring tariff announcements and their potential impact on supply-demand dynamics.

Why PriceWatch?

PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global cotton fibre price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the cotton fibre market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, PriceWatch keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.

In addition, PriceWatch provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With PriceWatch, you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence cotton fibre prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely cotton fibre market data.

Track PriceWatch's cotton fibre price assessment on a weekly basis since 2015 onwards, along with short-term forecasts, and get access to the detailed report in a downloadable format.

Data Collection and Sources​

  • Real-Time Market Data: PriceWatch aggregates real-time pricing data from a diverse range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures that our assessments reflect the most current market conditions.
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers insights directly from key market participants, including producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users, across major Cotton fibre production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics.
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire Cotton fibre supply chain, from raw material availability to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics.

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts or trade disputes, which can significantly impact Cotton fibre prices. Our analysis includes potential disruptions to supply chains and their immediate and long-term effects on pricing.
  • Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or winter storms, on Cotton production facilities, particularly in vulnerable regions like India, China, USA, Pakistan and Brazil. These events are factored into our price forecasts and supply outlooks.
  • Economic Shifts: PriceWatch evaluates macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g., textile and apparel), to predict shifts cotton demand and corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global cotton production facilities, tracking their operational status, maintenance schedules, and output levels. This allows us to assess current supply availability accurately.
  • Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes detailed forecasts of upcoming cotton production capacities, factoring in new plant constructions, expansions, and technological advancements. This helps in predicting future supply trends and potential price stabilization.

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: PriceWatch provides in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including automotive, and construction. We track year-on-year demand growth and project future consumption patterns based on economic indicators and industry developments.
  • Global Demand Dynamics: Our methodology considers regional demand variations and how they influence global cotton pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations.

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: PriceWatch utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast Cotton fibre prices, incorporating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. Our models are continuously refined to enhance accuracy and predictive power.
  • Scenario Analysis: We conduct scenario-based assessments to evaluate potential future market conditions. This includes best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios, helping our clients prepare for a range of market outcomes.

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Our clients receive detailed reports that include current price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to be actionable, providing clear insights and recommendations.
  • Ongoing Support: PriceWatch offers continuous updates and personalized support to our clients, ensuring they have the most up-to-date information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available to discuss specific market developments and provide tailored advice.

This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable Cotton fibre pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions.

Cotton Fibre Market Price Trend provided by PriceWatch is a base price and excludes VAT/Taxes, discounts, or offers. The information herein is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the date indicated and is provided solely for the convenience of our customers as a reference for cotton fibre. PriceWatch disclaims any warranties or representations regarding the accuracy of results derived from this information. It is the sole responsibility of the user to assess the suitability of the product for their specific application. This document does not constitute an endorsement to use the product in violation of any applicable patent rights.

Cotton fibre prices are influenced by multiple factors, including global supply and demand, weather and climate conditions, crop yields in major producing countries (India, USA, China, Brazil, Pakistan), and government policies such as subsidies or export restrictions. Additionally, international trade dynamics, currency fluctuations, and transportation costs impact price movements. Market speculation and seasonal demand from the textile and apparel industries also contribute to price volatility.

Changes in supply, such as crop shortfalls due to droughts, floods, or pest infestations, can reduce availability and push prices higher. Conversely, oversupply from abundant harvests or increased imports can lower prices. Demand shifts from textile manufacturers, export orders, and seasonal consumption cycles directly impact pricing. Monitoring these factors is crucial for buyers and traders to plan procurement and inventory strategies effectively.

Buyers can optimize procurement by tracking global cotton market trends, including benchmark indices like Cotlook A, CCI, KCA Spot, and Brazil Cotton Index. Securing long-term contracts when prices are favourable, diversifying suppliers across producing regions, and hedging against currency or market volatility can mitigate risks. Awareness of geopolitical developments, government policies, and seasonal demand patterns also helps in making cost-effective and timely purchasing decisions.

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