Harare — WORLD cotton trade is expected to recover next season after dropping 27 percent last season.

The International Cotton Advisory Committee's latest report said cotton trade fell to 6 million tonnes in the 2008/09 season due to the decline in demand from importing countries.

India is expected to account for more exports this season as shipments are projected to 1,1 million tonnes.

Australia and Uzbekistan are also expected to witness an increase in exports trade.

However the United States and Brazil would see a decline in exports.

World cotton imports are excepted to be 8 percent higher at 6,5million tonnes. China, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Turkey are expected to be major importer.

Meanwhile world cotton production in the 2009/10 season is expected to decline due to declining returns, financing difficulties and attractive prices for competing crops.

Some cotton producing countries have put in place mechanisms to promote production.

The United States offers direct support through subsidies for cotton production. A total of US$888 million in 2007/08 to US$3,1 billion in 2008/9 was channeled towards cotton production.

Turkey government pays a higher premium for seed cotton coming from certified seeds while Colombia has direct government payments to producers.