U.S. farmers planted an estimated 16,473 acres of organic cotton (certified and transitional) in the U.S. in 1999.

1999's planting represents a 75 percent increase in organic cotton acreage over 1998. Further, farmers planted organic cotton in an additional 2 states from 1998. As a result, organic cotton is now grown in 40 percent of the 17 states where conventional cotton is grown. (USDA/NASS 1998)

While the U.S. dominates global organic cotton production, growing approximately one-third of all organic cotton in 1997, acreage is increasing overseas, particularly in Greece, Peru and Turkey, mostly due to lower costs of production. (Agricola Partners 1997)

International interest in U.S. cotton will likely bring about a slight increase in U.S. acreage in 2000. Greater promotional assistance from cotton associations would help ensure a place for U.S. growers in the international marketplace.