US Cotton Export Sales Decline by 18.5 Percent
Weekly US cotton export sales dropped to 165,070 bales in early October as market participants weighed supply chain logistics against harvest conditions.
US cotton export sales fell by 18.51 percent for the week ending October 1, totaling approximately 165,070 running bales. Amid these figures, ICE cotton futures for December delivery traded near 80 cents per pound, reflecting a market balancing slower export demand against critical weather reports from the US cotton belt.
Harvesting progress has been hindered by rainfall in West Texas, which has raised quality concerns regarding open bolls. The US Department of Agriculture reported that 23 percent of the crop has been harvested, with 33 percent currently rated as good to excellent. These conditions remain a central factor in price volatility for the remainder of the quarter.
External market pressures continue to influence the sector, as a strong US dollar limits international buying interest from key markets like China, Vietnam, and Pakistan. Meanwhile, an uptick in crude oil prices has narrowed the cost advantage of synthetic fibers like polyester, keeping steady pressure on cotton demand.
Industry analysts suggest that textile manufacturers and apparel brands should prioritize securing forward volume contracts for November and December to mitigate potential supply chain tightening as the harvest season continues.