Uzbekistan accounts for 2% of global cotton output

Uzbekistan produces about 600,000 tonnes of raw cotton a year, accounting for roughly 2% of global output and placing it among the world’s top 10 producers, though well behind the leading suppliers.

Global cotton production is concentrated in a handful of countries. China is the largest producer, with an annual output of about 7.7 million tonnes, or around 29% of the global total, driven by mechanized farming in Xinjiang and strong domestic demand from its textile industry, according to Naked Science.

India ranks second with production of about 5.1 million tonnes (19%), although output remains heavily dependent on monsoon rains, making yields less predictable.

Brazil has consolidated its position as an agricultural powerhouse, producing around 4.2 million tonnes (16%), supported by rising productivity and a strong export drive in recent years.

The United States is the fourth-largest producer, with output of about 3 million tonnes (12%), and remains the world’s leading exporter, supplying key Asian markets including China, Vietnam and Bangladesh. Production is sensitive to weather conditions, particularly drought in major growing states such as Texas.

Other producers also play a significant role:

• Pakistan produces about 1.1 million tonnes (4%), largely for its domestic textile sector;

• Australia produces around 1 million tonnes (4%), with high yields and efficient water use;

• Turkey produces about 0.7 million tonnes (2%), supported by a developed textile industry;

• Argentina and the European Union each produce roughly 0.3 million tonnes.

Analysts say the concentration of production among a small number of countries gives them significant influence over global prices, trade flows, and logistics.