Cotton linter import of China hits a 5-year low in 2023

After experiencing explosive growth in 2021, the cotton linter import market has returned to rationality since 2022, with a decrease in volume once again. In 2023, the import market was lackluster, ending the year on a low note.

In 2021, cotton linter import of China saw a substantial increase, reaching a second high level. In 2022, the volume returned to a rational state, and in 2023, it continued to decline to a low point in nearly five years. The main reason for this was the excessive beginning stocks, especially due to weak demand for refined cotton. According to customs data, cotton linter import of China in 2023 was approximately 72,192.34 tons, a year-on-year decrease of 19.75%. The average import price for the year was $417.24/mt.

China imported cotton linter from 13 countries and regions in 2023, a decrease of 3 compared to 2022. Turkey ranked the top place among all the origins for two consecutive years in 2021 and 2022 but dropped to second place in 2023. India once again took the lead, with India, Turkey, and Brazil ranking in the top three, accounting for nearly 91% of the total.

Due to price advantages and the demand from refined cotton, especially cottonseed meal, cotton linter import from India saw a significant increase in 2023, reaching 29,111.2 tons, a year-on-year growth of 188.4%, accounting for 40.3% of the total. The import volume from the United States sharply decreased due to changes in demand and Sino-US relations, totaling 1,557.4 tons, a year-on-year decrease of 83.1%, accounting for 2.2% of the total.

In terms of the destinations, there were 12 provinces and cities importing cotton linter in 2023, a decrease of 1 compared to 2022. Over the years, Shandong Province has been leading the way, followed closely by Anhui and Jiangsu, with the three accounting for a combined 71.6%.

In conclusion, influenced by various factors, the cotton linter import market ended 2023 on a low note, with import volume dropping to a nearly 5-year low. Among them, the import of Indian cotton linter saw substantial growth, once again taking the lead, with India, Turkey, and Brazil ranking in the top three places. Shandong Province has been leading the import of cotton linter for many years, with Anhui and Jiangsu following closely.