American Cotton Gets New Hope Through Industry Revival Efforts

By Andi Anderson

For many years, the U.S. cotton industry has faced slow growth as synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon gained popularity. These materials are often cheaper and easier for manufacturers to use, reducing cotton’s share in clothing and textile production.

According to Hank Reichle, Board Member of the National Cotton Council and CEO of Staplcotn, demand for U.S. cotton has remained flat for nearly two decades. The industry has also shrunk significantly, with the number of cotton gins in the United States dropping from more than 1,500 in 1991 to just over 400 today.

American cotton producers are also facing stronger competition from countries such as Brazil, which have expanded cotton production in recent years. Gary Adams, President and CEO of the National Cotton Council, explained that global textile manufacturers now have many options. As he stated, “International textile manufacturers have a range of choices, whether that be U.S. cotton or Brazilian, Australian, west African…or synthetic fibers. And unfortunately, in too many cases, they’re picking those alternative fibers.”

To address these challenges, industry leaders are supporting the Buying American Cotton Act. The proposed legislation would offer tax credits to manufacturers that use verified U.S. cotton in their products. Additional incentives would be available for products assembled and sold in the United States.

The National Cotton Council believes the bill could increase annual cotton production by up to 4 million bales. Seth Stephens, General Manager of United Agricultural Cooperative, praised the proposal, saying, “If something like this can pass, it’s going to give United States cotton its time to shine, so to speak.”

The cotton industry is also promoting the Plant Not Plastic campaign. The initiative highlights concerns about microplastics released from synthetic fabrics. Researchers have found that synthetic textiles can shed microplastics, while cotton is a natural and biodegradable fiber.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has included these efforts in its Great American Cotton Plan, which also supports tax incentives, grants for textile businesses, and international trade opportunities. Industry leaders believe that policy support, innovation, and growing consumer interest in natural fibers can help strengthen the future of American cotton and create new opportunities for farmers and textile manufacturers.