UMVA has learned that officials announced a new strategy to revitalize the U.S. cotton sector during a visit to a cotton farm in Marana, Arizona.
The initiative, dubbed the Great American Cotton Plan, aims to strengthen domestic production, boost consumption, expand trade opportunities, and shield growers from emerging risks.
Cotton has woven itself into the American story for centuries, from the first Virginia gardens in 1607 to the fabric of modern apparel and textiles.
In Arizona alone, farmers planted over 102,000 acres last year, yielding more than 280,000 bales and contributing to a national cotton economy that generates $21 billion and supports more than 125,000 jobs.
Yet the sector has faced pressure as foreign competitors employed unfair trade practices, and in 2023 Brazil surpassed the United States as the world’s leading cotton exporter.
The plan’s first pillar focuses on increasing domestic demand by promoting natural fibers over synthetics through a Plant Not Plastic campaign linked to broader health research on microplastics.
Second, the administration seeks to lower costs by reauthorizing the Pima Agriculture Cotton Trust Fund through 2031, allocating $16 million annually, and raising payment rates in the Economic Adjustment Assistance for Textile Mills program to help mills modernize.
Third, trade efforts include securing an agreement with Indonesia for at least 163,000 metric tons of U.S. cotton per year for five years, and leveraging over $13 million via the COTTON USA Licensing Program to stimulate global demand.
Fourth, growers will receive protection against threats such as the spreading cotton jassid pest, with USDA’s Agricultural Research Service already pursuing control measures, and an expanded farm safety net that allows eligible producers to add up to 30 million new base acres to risk coverage programs starting June 1.
Together, these actions are intended to make the American cotton supply stronger, more affordable, and more secure as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.
