U.S. Cotton Exports Weaken, Futures Respond Amid Planting Concerns

July ICE Cotton #2 futures closed at ¢65.06/lb as export bookings hit a three-week low and storms disrupt planting across the U.S. South.

The July contract settled at ¢65.06 per pound on May 30, down ¢1.05 from the previous week.

Week Commencing: 23-30 May, 2025

Beginning Price: ¢66.11 per pound

Ending Price: ¢65.06 per pound

Weekly Change: −1.59%

Export Sales and Demand:
U.S. cotton export sales for the week ending May 22 totaled 118,658 running bales, marking a three-week low. Vietnam was the largest buyer, accounting for 65,600 bales, followed by Bangladesh with 17,300 bales. Shipments for the same period reached 275,379 bales, with Vietnam receiving the majority at 117,000 bales.

Weather Impact on Planting:
Heavy rainfall and saturated soils in key cotton-growing regions, including the Mississippi Delta and parts of Texas, have delayed planting activities. Some areas reported over 5 inches of precipitation, leading to concerns about crop development and potential yield reductions.