The long-run competitiveness of the U.S. cotton industry in the world market is probably affected by the industry's production costs relative to other costs more than any other factor. Estimated costs of producing cotton in the U.S. and in nine competing cotton exporting countries over the period 1970-1985 are presented. Production costs in the major exporting countries are adjust for differences in input subsidies between countries and for fluctuation in exchange rates. Implications for the U.S. competitive position in the world cotton market are examined.