Cotton imports (849 million pounds) accounted for 57 percent of the total and were 9 percent above a month earlier. U.S. imports from other North American countries rose 13 percent to 241 million pounds—28 percent of the total. Imports from Asia increased in March to 532 million pounds—63 percent of the total. Similarly, March 2006 textile exports, at 442 million pounds, were 16 percent above February but were 3 percent below March 2005. Textile exports expanded for all major fibers and end-uses. Cotton exports, at 217 million pounds, were 17 percent above February and 4 percent above a year ago.
March cotton textile exports increased for all end uses with yarn, thread, and fabric accounting for 78 percent of the total. Other North American countries were the dominant markets for the United States; March shipments reached 197 million pounds or 91 percent of the total. Mexico and Honduras continue as leading markets, receiving 27 and 26 percent, respectively, of the region's total shipments.
United States Department of Agriculture Economic Research Service
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