Brazil could become the world’s largest cotton exporter in 2023, with an increase in planted area helping it to surpass the U.S., according to producers in the South American country. “We will soon be the world’s largest exporters, maybe already next year,” said Julio Cezar Busato, the head of Brazilian association Abrapa.
While cotton sowing in Brazil next year is seen rising 1.3% from the previous season to 1.66 million hectares, cotton acreage in the U.S. will face strong competition from more profitable crops, including corn, soybeans and wheat. A sharp reduction in U.S. cotton acreage could push Brazil into the No. 1 slot for global cotton exports. Abrapa expects Brazil to increase its cotton shipments by 22% to 2.2 MMT next year from nearly record output of 2.95 MMT. Brazil currently ranks fourth among global cotton producers – behind China, India and the U.S. – but is the No.2 exporter.
Get daily cotton market updates and analysis with a subscription to Pro Farmer. View subscription options.
