Cotton Association of India (CAI) has predicted that cotton production for 2016-17 season beginning October one would be 336 lakh bales of 170 kg each. This estimate is nearly similar to the 337.75 lakh bales produced in the ongoing season, as per CAI’s July estimate. However, cotton acreage is likely to dip by about 10 per cent compared to the current year.

Better weather conditions across all cotton growing regions of the country will result in higher productivity during 2016-17, which explains the similar output despite fall in area under cotton, CAI said in its first estimate for 2016-17 season.

For 2016-17, the total cotton supply is projected at 400 lakh bales, while domestic consumption is estimated at 308 lakh bales. This leaves an available surplus of 92 lakh bales for export, the association said in a statement.

– Apparel Talk, Indian Apparel