LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — Cotton may be regaining a competitive advantage as rising energy costs and supply chain disruptions challenge polyester’s long-held price edge. Textile industry analyst Bob Antoshak says global events are shifting the economics of fiber markets.
Polyester has historically benefited from cheap energy, efficient shipping, and low-cost direct imports. But conflict in the Middle East is disrupting trade routes and raising costs for petrochemical-based materials tied to crude oil.
Polyester production depends heavily on petroleum-based inputs like naphtha, and tightening oil supplies are pushing costs higher. At the same time, the closure of the U.S. de minimis import loophole is increasing costs for low-priced fast-fashion imports, many of which rely heavily on synthetic fibers.
That shift may improve cotton’s outlook. USDA recently raised its projected average upland cotton price for the 2025/26 marketing year, while export sales and shipments have improved in recent weeks.
Cotton may not need to outperform polyester on price alone. Reliability, traceability, and sourcing security are becoming more important factors for buyers.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Cotton may gain demand as polyester costs rise.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Slightly higher output amid softer gasoline pull points to steady corn grind — watch regional stocks and export pace for basis clues.
October 17, 2025 04:59 PM
·
The Louisiana cotton crop is the smallest on record, but strong yields are a silver lining. LSU AgCenter’s Craig Gautreaux reports from northeast Louisiana.
October 17, 2025 04:48 PM
·
Soybean farmer and Arkansas Lt. Gov. Leslie Rutledge highlights why the U.S. trade standoff with China is especially critical for Arkansas producers.
October 17, 2025 04:07 PM
·
NEFB President Mark McHargue provides an update from the Husker State, where farmers are working hard to bring in one of the largest harvests in recent years.
October 17, 2025 04:06 PM
·
Having a good read on fuel prices is a must during harvest, but one analyst says grain farmers should also be watching the crude oil markets.
October 17, 2025 01:26 PM
·
National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew discusses the urgent need for aid as farm families face mounting input costs and long-term market uncertainty.
October 17, 2025 01:08 PM
·
