Recently, Brazilian cotton exports to China have shown remarkable growth. According to China Customs statistics, March 2024 imports reached 167,000 tons, a staggering 950% YoY increase. During Q1 2024, China imported 496,000 tons from Brazil, up 340% YoY. Since the 2023/24 fiscal year began, cumulative Brazilian cotton imports reached 914,000 tons (130% growth), significantly exceeding US cotton imports of 281,000 tons.

Data from Brazils National Supply Company (CONAB) confirms this trend, reporting 1.142 million tons exported to China from August 2023 to March 2024. Particularly in April 2024s first four weeks, Brazil shipped 239,900 tons of raw cotton - nearly four times last years 61,000 tons.

Multiple factors drive this export surge. Firstly, severe port congestion in late 2023 and Red Sea crisis challenges delayed many cotton shipments originally scheduled for year-end completion, shifting Brazils peak export period and extending sales cycles. Secondly, since December 2023, Brazilian cotton basis (spot-futures price differential) narrowed compared to previous months, enhancing price competitiveness against US and Australian cotton.International LogisticsMeanwhile, persistent drought in US Southwest cotton regions compromised fiber quality, creating opportunities for Brazilian cotton in China. Growing Chinese demand for high-quality cotton, coupled with Brazils price advantages and superior quality, increasingly attracts Chinese buyers.

Furthermore, evolving global trade dynamics boost Brazilian cotton exports. As major economies like China recover post-pandemic, manufacturing demand revival increases premium cotton needs. Brazils mature cotton industry and improving logistics enable effective response to this growing demand.

Analysts predict sustained high export volumes if current trends continue, especially in this off-season boom, leapfrog acceleration market environment where Brazilian cotton may further expand market share.

Brazilian cotton exports