US Upland cotton sales weaken, shipment volumes improve: USDA

According to the latest weekly US cotton export sales report released by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), net Upland sales for the 2025–26 marketing year totalled 98,000 running bales (RB), each weighing 226.8 kg (500 pounds). This was down 27 per cent week on week and 49 per cent below the prior four-week average, signalling softer near-term buying interest.

Vietnam remained the largest buyer with net purchases of 38,700 RB, including switched sales from China, followed by Pakistan (14,400 RB), Mexico (13,000 RB), Turkiye (12,700 RB) and China (12,400 RB). Forward sales for the 2026–27 season stood at 22,500 RB, mainly to Vietnam and Turkiye, indicating some early coverage for the next season despite cautious nearby demand.

Outstanding Upland sales declined to 3.61 million RB, sharply lower than 4.89 million RB a year earlier, pointing to significantly thinner forward coverage compared with last season. In contrast, shipment activity improved, with Upland exports reaching 154,000 RB, up 10 per cent from the previous week and 18 per cent above the four-week average. Accumulated Upland exports rose to 2.99 million RB, remaining ahead of last year’s pace.

Vietnam also led shipments with 47,800 RB, followed by Pakistan, China, Turkiye and Indonesia, reflecting continued strong execution of existing commitments.

Pima cotton sales improved modestly. Net Pima sales for 2025–26 totalled 4,300 RB, up week on week but below the recent average. Outstanding Pima sales fell to 57,700 RB, well below last year’s level, while exports declined sharply to 4,500 RB, with China the primary destination.

The data indicates that while US cotton sales slowed further in early January, robust shipment performance continues to support cumulative exports, even as forward order books remain notably lighter than last season.

ALCHEMPro News Desk (KUL)