WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is launching a new Great American Cotton Plan to improve cotton demand, rebuild textile manufacturing, and address years of financial pressure on growers.
The department says cotton producers face a fifth straight year of negative returns, with projected losses of about $2.6 billion across 9 million planted acres. USDA also says the number of U.S. cotton gins has fallen from 2,254 in 1980 to 446.
The plan includes four main areas: promoting domestic cotton use, increasing domestic demand and production, improving trade, and protecting growers from risk.
USDA will elevate its “Plant Not Plastic” initiative, promote American cotton over synthetic fibers, prioritize cotton processors through Rural Development loans, and increase textile mill assistance from 3 cents to 5 cents per pound.
The department also points to trade work with Indonesia and Bangladesh, expanded insurance tools, and a higher seed cotton reference price beginning this fall.
Farm-Level Takeaway: USDA’s cotton plan aims to rebuild demand, expand markets, and support growers facing sustained losses.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Agriculture remains a key drag on regional growth amid weak prices and policy uncertainty.
February 12, 2026 08:00 AM
·
While access to China remains uncertain, U.S. beef exporters are finding resilience and opportunity in other global markets, which could help maintain industry value and expand export opportunities.
February 11, 2026 02:41 PM
·
Richard Gupton of the Agricultural Retailers Association discusses the EPA’s new decision on over-the-top Dicamba and what it means for growers this year.
February 11, 2026 01:32 PM
·
Mike Spier, president and CEO of U.S. Wheat Associates, discusses the new U.S.-Bangladesh trade agreement and its potential benefits for U.S. wheat growers.
February 11, 2026 12:37 PM
·
Gretchen Kuck of the National Corn Growers Association joined us to discuss the Ag Coalition for USMCA’s report findings and expectations ahead of the upcoming USMCA review.
February 11, 2026 12:17 PM
·
Strong corn exports offer support, while soybeans and wheat remain weighed down by ample global supplies, according to the USDA’s latest WASDE report for February.
February 10, 2026 04:25 PM
·
