China's cotton yarn imports declined by 35 per cent in April 2024 to around 110,900 tons compared to March 2024.

The unit price of cotton yarn imports increased to $2.48/kg, impacting cost-effectiveness compared to domestic yarn. The raising of prices by Pakistani and Uzbekistani yarn mills after the Chinese New Year led to a decline in imports by China from these countries. Chinese buyers also reduced orders due to the rise in international yarn prices. The country’s imports from Pakistan declined to 11,400 tons due to post-holiday price hikes while imports from Uzbekistan dropped by 12 per cent to 13,700 tons compared to March. China’s cotton yarn imports from India declined by 10 per cent to 13,900 tons compared to March.

China’s import of carded single yarn declined across all categories, with the most significant drop in 8-25s. Imports of blended cotton yarn also fell to 13,480 tons compared to March with Vietnam importing around 82.5 per cent of the required material.

There was a growing trend towards importing carded single yarn below 8s and combed yarn 30-47s during the month.

Surpassing Zhejiang, yarn imports from the Guangdong Province amounted to 4,565 tons. Imports from the Zhejiang province declined to 29.42 per cent. The import share of Shanghai surged to 17.71 per cent while the Fujian province witnessed the most significant decrease in yarn imports to 1,167 tons.

Overall, rising import costs and price sensitivity, continue to impact China's cotton yarn imports. The decline is likely to continue with the rise in international prices for yarn.