The production of cotton in India for the period 2023/24 is facing significant challenges as 7.5% is forecast to fall compared to the previous year. This reduction will be observed in relation to the production volume, which is estimated at 29.5 million bales. Several factors contribute to this decrease in production, including a decrease in cultivated area and adverse weather conditions related to the El Niño phenomenon. These weather conditions have negatively impacted the productivity of cotton plantations in India.
As a result of the decline in domestic production, imports of cotton in India are projected to reach a significantly higher level than the previous year. Forecasts indicate that imports could reach 2.2 million bales during the commercial year that began on October 1st. This represents a notable increase compared to the 1.25 million bales imported the previous year.
The Cotton Association of India (CAI) released this information in an official statement, therefore highlighting the need to supplement domestic cotton production due to the challenging circumstances facing the sector. Unpredictable weather conditions caused by El Niño are thus affecting cotton production in India. Furthermore, the reduction in planting area also contributes to pressure on production. In response, the increase in imports was adopted as a strategic measure. This helps to meet domestic demand and maintain the stability of the cotton market in the country.
Source: Rajendra Jadhav | Notícias Agrícolas
