India surpassed the United States as the second-largest cotton producer eight years ago and now is on the heels of China as the world leader, says USDA. It credits the introduction of genetically modified varieties for higher yields and larger plantings as well as higher profits for growers. India plants twice as much land in cotton as China but its yields are much lower – 530 kilograms per hectare vs 1,357 kg/ha in China. USDA estimates China will harvest 29.5 million bales and India 28 million bales of cotton this season.
“With gains in production, India has emerged as the world’s second-largest exporter of raw cotton, after the United States, and the second-largest consumer of raw cotton, after China. Cotton processed in India is destined for its large domestic market as well as exports of cotton yarn, fabric, and clothing,” says USDA. U.S. cotton exports are forecast for 10.2 million bales in 2014/15, compared to 5.5 million bales from India.