Imports by China (Mainland) are projected at 3.7 million tons in 2006/07; this would represent 40 percent of world imports. However, there is significant uncertainty regarding projected 2006/07 Chinese imports due to lack of information on Chinese consumption and the intention (buying or selling cotton) of the China National Cotton Reserves Corporation.
World cotton production is projected at 25.0 million tons in 2006/07, 300,000 tons higher than last season. Production is forecast to reach record levels in both China (Mainland) (6.5 million tons) and India (4.6 million tons).
However, production is expected to decrease in the United States (to 4.5 million tons) and Pakistan (to 2.0 million tons).
World cotton consumption is forecast at 25.6 million tons in 2006/07, up 3 percent from last season and driven by China (Mainland). Consumption in China (Mainland) is forecast at 10.2 million tons this season, accounting for a record 40 percent of projected world cotton consumption.
World cotton stocks are projected at 11.6 million tons in 2006/07, down 3 percent from last season.
International Cotton Advisory Committee
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