In August 2022, Australian exports of cotton were almost double the entire amount of cotton exported in 2020.

In calendar year 2020, $455 million of cotton was exported to various offshore markets. Cotton is forecast to become the third most valuable export commodity for Australia after wheat and beef. That third ranking in export commodity value, after wheat and beef, is the highest ranking for cotton since 1988 and coincides with falling livestock exports due to lower prices for red meat and wool.

Bangladesh has almost doubled its 2022 imports of Australian cotton in the first three months of this season while India has imported more than the previous season. The other countries to record significant increases are Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, and Turkey.While global growth expectations have been lowered due to widespread inflation, a sluggish Chinese economy, and dropping consumer demand, Australian cotton remains in high demand due to its quality and reduced crops from drought in the US and flooding in Pakistan. About 30 per cent of the 2023 crop have been now forward sold and those solid export totals are expected to continue to gain momentum through the following months.

Bottlenecks and container shortages are showing signs of easing and that should ensure an easier passage of Australian cotton to overseas markets.