China is still buying U.S. cotton despite the standoff on soybeans

China has been largely absent from U.S. markets lately, but not when it comes to cotton. It’s a buy that, traders say, isn’t surprising given China’s limitations.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — China has been largely absent from U.S. markets lately, but not when it comes to cotton. This week’s export sales data revealed some export purchases headed for the Asian nation. It is a buy that traders say is not surprising, given China’s limitations.

“So, in the case of cotton, they don’t have a lot of other countries to turn to other than the United States,” explained Brian Hoops. “There aren’t that many countries that grow that cotton. You look at where they can buy soybeans from -- well, they have a monster crop out of South America, both Brazil and Argentina this year. Big corn crops out of Brazil, record large there. They can buy corn and soybeans from other countries.”

Wheat is another area that could be under pressure this fall. Hoops says production has ramped up in places like Russia, Argentina, Australia, and Ukraine. All those nations, he says, are boosting wheat output over last year.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Smaller U.S. production and steady global demand could provide better pricing opportunities in 2026.
More than 1,100 residents and farmers have signed a letter urging Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins to step in, saying the proposal threatens irrigation supplies and long-term farm viability in the region.
Reviewing risk management now can help dairy and livestock producers enter 2026 with clearer margins and fewer surprises.
Canada’s new voluntary Grocery Sector Code of Conduct will take effect on Jan. 1, a goodwill effort to promote fairness and transparency between retailers and support farms that sell directly to stores.
With record grain harvests and rising global ethanol demand, leaders across the ag and energy sectors are pushing for year-round E15 sales to mitigate the strain on grain trade.
Pork producers warn that proposed definitions of “ultra-processed” food in guidelines from the “Make America Healthy Again” plan could negatively impact industry-standard bacon, sausage, and feed practices.