Fibers and Textiles
The USDA’s new cotton initiative comes as policymakers continue to focus on stabilizing farm income across major row crops while balancing export exposure with domestic supply chain resilience.
The American Sheep Industry Association says high labor costs and volatile markets continue creating pressure for producers.
USDA will elevate its “Plant Not Plastic” initiative and promote American cotton over synthetic fibers.
Textile strategist Robert Antoshak says responsible fashion is not dead, but voluntary sustainability language is not enough on its own.
USDA Elevates “Plant Not Plastic” Initiative and Supports Buying American Cotton Act
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins visits Arizona cotton producers as rising fuel, fertilizer, and fuel and fertilizer costs continue to pressure farm margins.
Drought remains a major risk, with the ERS reporting that 98 percent of the U.S. cotton production area was affected by drought in early May.
Cotton margins improved slightly, even as fertilizer and fuel costs rose due to the Strait of Hormuz disruption linked to the Iran war.
Cotton may gain demand as polyester costs rise.
Hemp growth is driven by floral demand, with mixed returns elsewhere.