Cotton exports might lose thread over Chinese offtake

India’s cotton exports are likely to decline by 20 per cent this year, following the Chinese government’s decision to auction its own fibre stock. Indian exporters will thus not be able to reap the benefit of high international prices. Exports estimated to be 5.5 million bales against last year’s 6.9 million, according to industry estimates.

The Washington-based International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) said the Chinese government was expected to start sales from its cotton reserves on March 6 and would continue offering 30,000 tonnes a day until August.

“Last year, around 2.6 million tonnes were sold through the end of September. Assuming