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Cotton Yarn Price Trend and Forecast

⟳ Weekly Update
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Historical Data Since 2015
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Forecast for 2026
  • Commodity Pricing

cotton yarn Price Trends by Country

inIndia
bdBangladesh
vnVietnam
usUnited States
cnChina

Global cotton yarn Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

Cotton Yarn Price Trend Q3 2025

In Q3 2025, cotton yarn markets have been experiencing a moderate softening, with prices generally declining by 3–5% across major regions. The downward trend has been driven by easing demand, high inventories, and cautious buying from downstream textile and garment sectors. Both knitting and woven yarns have been under pressure, while buyers and mills have been adjusting procurement strategies and monitoring global supply conditions. Seasonal factors and logistical improvements have also been influencing price movements, contributing to the overall softness. Overall, the quarter has highlighted persistent market pressure, requiring agile sourcing and cost-management measures across the cotton yarn sector.

China

Cotton Yarn Export prices FOB Shanghai, China, Grade- Knitting Yarn 32/1.

In Q3 2025, Cotton Knitting Yarn prices in China have been showing a softening trend, declining 3% drop from Q2. Market sentiment has been turning slightly bearish as downstream knitting demand has been weakening and yarn inventories in major Chinese hubs have been remaining elevated. Raw cotton prices have been staying relatively stable, offering limited cost support and keeping yarn offers under pressure. Export inquiries from Bangladesh and Vietnam have been slowing, which has been adding to the downward momentum. In September 2025, Cotton Knitting Yarn prices 32/1 in China have been falling further to USD 3263/MT, declining by 6%, reinforcing the ongoing softness in the market. Meanwhile, buyers have been shifting toward value-added and sustainable yarns, reducing interest in conventional 32/1 counts. Overall, the yarn market has been moving in a mildly weaker direction as the quarter has progressed.

USA

Cotton Yarn import prices CIF Houston, China, Grade- Knitting Yarn 32/1.

In Q3 2025, Cotton Knitting Yarn imports from China to the U.S. has been falling around 4% drop from previous quarter. This movement indicates that import costs have been easing for U.S. buyers, while importers have been adjusting their sourcing strategies in response to improving logistics and softening seasonal demand. By September 2025, U.S. cotton knitting yarn prices 32/1 have been reported at USD 3410/MT, falling 6%, highlighting persistent market softness. Throughout the quarter, market participants have been closely monitoring Chinese export trends, ensuring steady supply and effective cost management.

Vietnam

Cotton Yarn import prices CIF Haiphong, China, Grade- Knitting Yarn 32/1.

In Q3 2025, Cotton Knitting Yarn imports from China to Vietnam has been declining around 3% from Q2 levels. Vietnamese importers have been adjusting their sourcing strategies amid easing yarn costs and improving shipping logistics. By September, Cotton knitting yarn 32/1 prices have slid further to USD 3310/MT, reflecting a 6% drop and ongoing softness in the market. Despite lower input prices, Vietnam’s textile and garment sector has been maintaining active exports, supporting stable demand for raw materials.

Market participants have been closely monitoring Chinese export trends and global supply-chain shifts to optimize procurement. The decline in CIF prices has been offering an opportunity for Vietnamese mills to reduce costs and remain competitive internationally. Overall, buyers and suppliers have been navigating market fluctuations while balancing cost-efficiency and supply continuity.

Bangladesh

Cotton Yarn import prices CIF Chittagong, China, Grade- Knitting Yarn 32/1.

In Q3 2025, Cotton Knitting Yarn imports from China to Bangladesh have been softening to 3% from Q2 levels. Importers have been leveraging the softer prices while carefully adjusting shipments to manage inventory and cash flow. By September 32/1 cotton knitting yarn prices have dropped further to USD 3398/MT, a 6% decrease, highlighting ongoing market pressures. The reduction in CIF costs has been assisting local mills and knitwear manufacturers in managing rising production expenses amid domestic supply constraints.

Simultaneously, buyers have been closely tracking Chinese export trends to maintain steady supply while balancing quality and cost. This quarter has seen heightened prudence among procurement teams as they navigate global supply uncertainties and variable yarn availability. Overall, the decline in import prices has been providing short-term opportunities for cost savings while emphasizing the need for flexible and responsive sourcing strategies.

India

Cotton Yarn Domestic price in South India, Grade- Woven Yarn 30/1 Combed.

In Q3 2025, Domestic cotton woven yarn prices in South India have been declining 5% from Q2. Mills and buyers have been adjusting their procurement and production plans as yarn costs have been easing. In September, they have been falling further to 250,000 INR/MT, marking an 11% drop and highlighting persistent market softness.

Weaving and garment units have been reducing orders, keeping yarn inventories elevated, while mills have been offering discounts to attract buyers. Market participants have been monitoring domestic and global cotton trends closely to optimize sourcing decisions. Overall, Q3 has been showing a challenging market environment, with declining prices, muted downstream demand, and intensified competition among mills.

Cotton Yarn Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

Global:

According to PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, 32/1 China cotton knitting yarn prices FOB Shanghai have been increasing by around 5% to USD 3723/MT, reflecting moderate market strengthening. Spinners and exporters have been adjusting production and shipment schedules as yarn rates have been firming, while downstream knitwear demand has been providing ongoing support. Sluggish demand from key importers and evolving global trade conditions have been tempering overall optimism.

Buyers have been shifting interest toward sustainable and value‑added yarns, gradually reducing focus on conventional 32/1 counts. Meanwhile, raw cotton availability and global yarn trends have been creating mixed signals, prompting exporters to remain cautious. Overall, Q2 has been witnessing moderate price gains amid careful monitoring of demand-supply dynamics in the Shanghai yarn market.

India:

According to PriceWatch, in Q2 2025, Domestic cotton woven yarn 30/1 combed prices in South India have been increasing by around 4%, reaching USD 3270/MT, reflecting a modest market strengthening. Mills and buyers have been adjusting procurement and production plans as yarn costs have been rising. The price firming has been being supported by steady demand from weaving and garment sectors, while limited downstream consumption and muted export orders have been tempering overall optimism.

Key spinning centres have been managing inventories carefully and monitoring domestic cotton trends. While the price rise has been providing some relief to mills, cautious buying by fabric manufacturers has been keeping market activity moderate. Overall, Q2 has been witnessing moderate price gains amid careful balancing of demand-supply dynamics in the South Indian woven yarn market.

Global:

According to PriceWatch, In Q1 2025, 32/1 cotton knitting yarn prices FOB Shanghai have been declining slightly around 1% from Q4 2024 levels, averaging around USD 3561/MT, indicating a modest softening in the export market. Spinners and exporters have been adjusting production and shipment schedules in response to marginally weaker demand from downstream knitwear units. While global trade conditions have remained mixed, buyers have been carefully monitoring shipments and pricing trends to optimize procurement.

The market has been experiencing stable raw cotton availability, providing limited support for further price increases. Additionally, importers have been adapting sourcing strategies amid evolving logistics and seasonal demand patterns. Overall, Q1 has been characterized by slight price moderation amid cautious market sentiment, with participants balancing supply considerations and downstream requirements in the Shanghai knitting yarn market.

India:

According to PriceWatch, domestic 30/1 combed woven yarn prices in South India have remained broadly stable in Q1 2025, edging up by around 0.5% to nearly USD 3185/MT. Market sentiment has been steady, supported by consistent offtake from weaving units, while garment-sector buying has continued at measured levels. Mills have been maintaining cautious production schedules as cotton procurement costs and exchange-rate movements remain closely monitored.

Despite limited export momentum, domestic demand has been sufficient to prevent any downward pressure. Inventory levels across major spinning hubs have been managed prudently, helping maintain price stability. Overall, Q1 has reflected a balanced market environment with marginal strengthening driven by controlled supply and steady domestic consumption.

Cotton Yarn Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

Global:

According to PriceWatch, 32/1 cotton knitting yarn prices FOB Shanghai have been inching up by around 1.1% in Q4 2024 from Q3, reflecting a mild improvement in market sentiment. The price uptick has been supported by steady overseas enquiries and improved short-term buying from key apparel hubs. Chinese spinning mills have been managing production cautiously, balancing stable cotton input costs with moderate demand from exporters.

While the increase has remained marginal, it has signalled firmer market undertones following earlier quarters of soft demand. Overall, Q4 has been characterised by slightly stronger pricing as suppliers maintain disciplined output and buyers secure volumes ahead of the year-end shipment cycle.

India:

According to PriceWatch, domestic 30/1 combed woven yarn prices in South India have remained broadly stable in Q4 2024, supported by steady demand from weaving clusters and cautious mill production planning. Market sentiment has been balanced, with fabric manufacturers purchasing hand-to-mouth amid ongoing cost pressures.

Stable cotton procurement trends and controlled yarn inventories have helped prevent sharp fluctuations. Although export demand has stayed subdued, consistent domestic consumption has provided a floor to prices. Overall, Q4 has reflected a stable pricing environment shaped by disciplined supply management and moderate downstream activity.

Global:

According to PriceWatch, 32/1 cotton knitting yarn prices FOB Shanghai have been falling by around 5% in Q3 2024 from Q2, reflecting a noticeable softening in buying sentiment. Mills have been facing reduced export enquiries as international buyers adopt cautious procurement strategies amid slower apparel demand in major markets. The downward movement has also been influenced by stable but slightly easing cotton input costs, allowing suppliers to offer more competitive pricing.

Spinning mills have been managing production runs conservatively to prevent inventory build-ups while monitoring fluctuations in global cotton arrivals. Overall, Q3 has been marked by subdued market activity, with prices trending lower as both suppliers and buyers navigate a weak demand cycle.

India:

According to PriceWatch, Domestic 30/1 combed woven-yarn prices in South India have been easing in Q3 2024, declining by around 4% from Q2 levels as overall market sentiment has remained subdued. Prices have softened from the equivalent of USD 3515/MT in Q2 to lower levels in Q3, reflecting a noticeable cooling in demand. The correction has been driven by weaker buying interest from weaving units and moderated fabric production, leading mills to adjust output and offer more competitive pricing.

Although cotton input costs have remained relatively steady, cautious downstream demand has limited any upward momentum. Spinning hubs have been managing inventories tightly while monitoring domestic cotton arrivals and global macro-market cues. Overall, Q3 has been characterized by softer prices, restrained procurement, and a more cautious approach from both mills and buyers.

Global:

According to PriceWatch, In Q2 2024, 32/1 cotton knitting yarn prices FOB Shanghai have been decreasing, averaging around USD 3710/MT, marking a 2% drop from Q1. The downward trend has been influenced by slower global demand and continued cautious buying from downstream knitwear manufacturers. Chinese mills have been maintaining production levels, but export pressures and inventory management have been keeping prices under check.

Despite this, selective orders from European and North American buyers have been providing limited support, stabilizing the market amid broader softness. Overall, Q2 has been witnessing moderate correction with market participants staying alert to changes in raw cotton supply and international yarn demand.

India:

According to PriceWatch, Domestic 30/1 combed woven yarn prices in South India have been rising by around 2% in Q2 2024, reaching roughly USD 3505/MT. The price improvement has been being supported by better order placements from woven-fabric clusters preparing for festive-season demand. Spinning mills have been operating more steadily as cotton arrivals and power costs have been remaining manageable. However, rising labour and overhead expenses have been pressuring mill margins, prompting firmer pricing.

Market sentiment has also been being shaped by ongoing discussions around revised cotton MSP levels, encouraging cautious raw-material procurement. Meanwhile, slower Chinese yarn exports have been reducing import-price competition, offering some support to domestic sellers. Overall, Q2 has been showing a mildly strengthening trend underpinned by steady demand and disciplined supply.

Global:

According to PriceWatch, In Q1 2024, 32/1 cotton knitting yarn FOB Shanghai has been falling slightly to USD 3788/MT, having decreased by 2% compared to Q4 2023 when it has been trading at USD 3881/MT. The market has been witnessing cautious buying from overseas customers amid stable cotton arrivals. Spinning mills have been operating at moderate capacity, supported by manageable energy costs, while demand from knitwear manufacturers has been showing selective softening. Overall, the market has been reflecting mild downward pressure with limited volatility, indicating a cautious outlook for the upcoming quarter.

India:

According to PriceWatch, In Q1 2024, Domestic 30/1 combed woven yarn prices in South India have been declining slightly to USD 3531/MT, having decreased by 1% compared to Q1 2023 when they have been trading at USD 3551/MT. The market has been witnessing subdued activity, with demand having remained weak as downstream buyers have been exercising caution amid payment delays and slow order placements.

Finer counts have been performing relatively better than coarser yarns, supported by ongoing domestic and export fabric orders, particularly in textile hubs such as Tiruppur. Spinning mills have been operating at moderate capacity, balancing stable cotton arrivals and manageable energy costs. Overall, the market has been reflecting mild downward pressure with limited volatility, indicating cautious optimism for a potential pick-up in yarn demand with upcoming seasonal orders.

Technical Specifications of Cotton Yarn Price Trends

Product Description

Cotton yarn is a natural spun yarn made from high-quality cotton fibres, valued for its softness, strength, and excellent moisture absorption. It is produced using ring-spun, compact, or open-end spinning technologies, offering versatility across different textile processes. The yarn is available in a wide range of counts, providing flexibility for various fabric requirements. Known for its superior comfort and dye uptake, cotton yarn remains a preferred material in the textile value chain. It offers good tensile strength, uniformity, and processing performance. The yarn is typically supplied in cone form to ensure efficient handling in manufacturing. Overall, cotton yarn maintains consistent quality and reliability, supporting stable production across the industry.

Identifiers and Classification:

  • CAS Number: 9004-34-6 (Cellulose)
  • HS Code – 5205.12 / 5205.32
  • Molecular Formula – (C₆H₁₀O₅)ₙ
  • Molecular Weight[g/mol] –162.14


Cotton Yarn Synonyms:

  • Combed Cotton Yarn
  • Carded Cotton Yarn
  • Ring-Spun Cotton Yarn
  • Spun Cotton Yarn


Cotton Yarn Grades Specific Price Assessment:

  • Woven Yarn 30/1 Carded Ex-South India Price Trend
  • Woven Yarn 40/1 Carded Ex-South India Price Trend
  • Woven Yarn 60/1 Carded Ex-South India Price Trend
  • Woven Yarn 30/1 Combed Ex-South India Price Trend
  • Woven Yarn 40/1 Combed Ex-South India Price Trend
  • Woven Yarn 60/1 Combed Ex-South India Price Trend
  • Knitting Yarn 21/1 FOB Shanghai Price Trend
  • Knitting Yarn 32/1 FOB Shanghai Price Trend
  • Knitting Yarn 32/1 CIF Houston (China) Price Trend
  • Knitting Yarn 32/1 CIF Haiphong (China) Price Trend
  • Knitting Yarn 32/1 CIF Chittagong (China) Price Trend


Cotton Yarn Global Trade and Shipment Terms

  • Quotation Terms: 5-10 MT
  • Packaging Type: Cone


Incoterms Referenced in Cotton Yarn Price Reporting

Shipping Term  Location  Definition 
Ex-South India  South India, India  Cotton Yarn Domestic price in India 
FOB Shanghai  Shanghai, China  Cotton Yarn Export price from China 
CIF Houston (China)  Houston, USA  Cotton Yarn Import price in USA from China 
CIF Haiphong (China)  Haiphong, Vietnam  Cotton Yarn Import price in Vietnam from China 
CIF Chittagong (China)  Chittagong, Bangladesh  Cotton Yarn Import price in Bangladesh from China 

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

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

Key Cotton Yarn Manufacturers

Manufacturer 
Lakshmi Mills Company Ltd. 
Sambandam Spinning Mills Ltd   
Shandong Weiqiao Venture Co., Ltd. 
Texhong International 
Shunyuan Textile Co., Ltd. 

Cotton Yarn Industrial Applications

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

COVID-19 Pandemic & Global Demand Slump (2020–2021):

The COVID-19 pandemic caused severe disruption in cotton yarn supply chains worldwide. Lockdowns, labour shortages, and factory closures halted both raw cotton processing and yarn production. At the same time, demand for yarn and downstream fabrics dropped sharply as global apparel consumption declined and orders were postponed or cancelled. Yarn prices swung unpredictably due to this combination of supply shortages and erratic demand. Mills and traders adjusted production and inventories to cope with uncertainty, and the market reflected extreme volatility during this period.

Global Supply-Chain Disruption & Price Volatility from US–China Trade War (2018–2019):

The US–China trade war caused significant disruptions in global cotton trade. Tariffs affected cotton exports from the U.S. and imports to China, leading to uncertainty in raw-material availability. Import-dependent yarn-producing countries faced fluctuating cotton costs, which transmitted to yarn prices. Mills and buyers adjusted sourcing strategies, built inventories, and hedged risks to manage volatility. Short-term price spikes and dips occurred frequently, highlighting the vulnerability of cotton yarn markets to geopolitical and trade-policy events. Overall, global yarn prices reflected the uncertainty induced by sudden trade barriers.

Domestic Cotton Shortage & Raw-Cotton Price Spike in India (2016):

During the 2015–16 cotton season, cotton production in India fell sharply, with domestic output declining significantly. This reduction in supply pushed raw-cotton prices up by over 30%, squeezing the margins of ginners and spinners. As a result, cotton yarn prices experienced upward pressure as mills tried to pass part of the cost to buyers. Downstream demand remained cautious due to competition from synthetic fibres, creating volatility in the market. Yarn buyers adjusted their purchasing strategies, and overall, the market reflected the sensitivity of yarn prices to raw-material shortages.

Why PriceWatch?

PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global cotton yarn price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the cotton yarn 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 yarn prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely cotton yarn market data.

Track PriceWatch's cotton yarn 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​

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

Demand Forecasting

Pricing Model Development

Reporting and Client Support

Cotton Yarn 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 yarn. 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 yarn comes in various types such as carded, combed, ring-spun, open-end (OE), and compact yarn. Carded yarn is less processed and slightly rougher, while combed yarn is smoother, stronger, and ideal for fine fabrics. The choice depends on the fabric quality and end-use.

Yarn count indicates thickness. Common knitting and weaving counts include 21/1, 30/1, 32/1, 40/1, and 60/1. Lower counts like 21/1 are thicker and used for heavier fabrics, while higher counts like 40/1 or 60/1 are finer and used for lightweight or premium garments.

Cotton yarn prices depend on raw cotton availability, global cotton prices, demand from textile mills, and seasonal factors. Prices can vary between carded and combed yarn, domestic vs. export markets, and different regions like South India or China.

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