The Cotton Association of India (CAI) has estimated India’s total cotton production in the ongoing season 2015-16 that began on October one at 370.50 lakh bales of 170 kg each. This is 12.25 lakh bales less compared to 2014-15 crop of 382.75 lakh bales, CAI in a press release said.

However, the decrease in cotton output is not likely to much affect the demand situation, as India has begun the new season with the highest-ever opening stock. Moreover, the domestic consumption of cotton is also likely to decline, CAI said.

In the northern zone, cotton output is likely to drop to 47 lakh bales in 2015-16 compared to 53.50 lakh bales last year, mainly due to the white-fly attack this year, which remains a cause of concern.

According to the projected balance sheet, total cotton supply for 2015-16 season is pegged at 463.15 lakh bales, while the consumption is estimated to be 325 lakh bales, thus leaving a surplus of 138.15 lakh bales.