Exports of US cotton are at the second highest level in 50 years. Exports of raw cotton through mid-May were 65 per cent higher. Vietnam is the top buyer of US cotton. This position was held by China until it began to sell off large cotton reserves some years ago. But as stocks shrink, China is expected to regain its top buyer status. The other top buyers of US cotton are Turkey, Indonesia, Mexico, India, Pakistan, Korea, Bangladesh, and Thailand.

US cotton had a huge year in India and Pakistan. US exports to India were at the largest level in 17 years. Much of it was extra-long staple Supima cotton. New cotton varieties and genetics combined with grower management tools have provided higher yields and improved fiber quality.

The US hopes to export 20 million cotton bales by 2020. It will drive export growth of US cotton through fiber, yarn, or value-added cotton products. US cotton is marketed as premium cotton, as higher quality fiber than other cotton grown worldwide. However, the industry continues to deal with low fiber prices and other issues that threaten the future. There are significant lint differences between lowest- and highest-yielding varieties.