Overview
Cotton is one of the most important textile fibers in the world,
accounting for around 35 percent of total world fiber use. While
some 80 countries from around the globe produce cotton, the United
States, China, and India together provide two-thirds of the world's
cotton. The United States, which ranks third in production behind
China and India, is the leading exporter, accounting for over
one-third of global trade in raw cotton. The U.S. cotton industry
accounts for more than $25 billion in products and services
annually, generating about 200,000 jobs in the industry sectors
from farm to textile mill.
ERS analyzes events in the U.S. and international cotton and
textile markets that influence supply, demand, prices, and
trade.