Brazil has rapidly emerged as a key supplier of cotton to the United States. In 2023 alone, nearly 1 million tons of Brazilian cotton arrived in U.S. ports - a significant figure that signals shifting dynamics in the global cotton trade.
This increase is largely driven by the Cerrado, which has contact with investments in agricultural technology following international standards of traceability and sustainability. Brazilian cotton has become an attractive option for American buyers seeking quality and competitive prices.
However, the growing volume of Brazilian exports could impact U.S. cotton farmers, pushing them to become more efficient, innovative and protect their trade. Farmers in southern states such as Texas and Georgia face high costs and unstable weather conditions. While Brazilian cotton helps stabilize supply chains and keep costs low for manufacturers, it also challenges the long-term competitiveness of American farms. How to navigate this evolving landscape—whether through increased domestic support, diversification, or strategic collaboration—is the challenge ahead.