Top cotton importing countries 2023/2024

This statistic shows the world's leading cotton importing countries in 2023/2024. During that period, Vietnam had imported approximately 1.4 million metric tons of cotton. 

Cotton import

Cotton is a natural plant fiber which grows around the seed of the cotton plant. Fibers are used in the textile industry, where they are the starting point of the production chain. First, the cotton fiber is obtained from the cotton plant and then spun into yarn. From there, the cotton yarn is woven or knitted into fabric.

The processing of cotton has a long tradition in the clothing industry due to its desirable characteristics. Fabrics made of this fiber are moisture-absorbent, have a good drape and are known for their long durability. Consumers continue to buy large amounts of cotton products as they have a preference for cotton’s light and comfortable qualities. Goods made out of cotton range from highly absorbent bath towels and bed linens to basic clothing such as t-shirts, undergarments or socks.

The leading cotton producing countries include China, India and the United States respectively. Within the United States, the Southern states traditionally produce the largest amount of cotton. This area was formerly known as the ‘Cotton Belt’, where cotton was the predominant cash crop from the 18th to the 20th century. Due to soil depletion and social and economic changes, cotton production has decreased and land area in this region is now mostly used for crops such as corn, soybeans and wheat.