CAI raises India’s 2025-26 cotton pressing estimate to 324 lakh

Revised forecast reflects updated state-wise inputs and trade data.

 The Cotton Association of India (CAI) has revised upward its estimate of India’s total cotton pressing for the 2025-26 season, raising the forecast to 324.00 lakh bales (+/-3%). The cotton season commenced on October 1, 2025.

The updated estimate was finalised during a virtual meeting of the CAI Crop Committee held on April 10, 2026, which was attended by 21 members representing key cotton-growing regions across the country. The revision is based on inputs received from eleven state cotton associations along with information gathered from other trade sources.

At the meeting, the committee increased the earlier pressing estimate of 320.50 lakh bales (each weighing 170 kg) by 3.50 lakh bales. The latest estimate now stands at 324.00 lakh bales of 170 kg each, which is equivalent to 340.00 lakh running bales of 162 kg each. The earlier estimate was equivalent to 336.33 lakh running bales.

The revision reflects notable state-wise changes in pressing projections compared to previous estimates. Gujarat’s estimate has been reduced by 3.00 lakh bales, while Maharashtra has seen a significant increase of 7.00 lakh bales. Madhya Pradesh recorded a marginal decline of 0.50 lakh bales. Overall, these changes resulted in a net upward revision of 3.50 lakh bales.

CAI stated that the Crop Committee will continue to closely monitor cotton pressing activity over the coming months. If further revisions are required based on market developments and updated regional inputs, adjustments will be reflected in the association’s upcoming monthly reports.

 

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