U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins on Thursday launched the Great American Cotton Plan, a new USDA initiative aimed at strengthening American cotton farmers, expanding domestic manufacturing, and increasing exports.
The Great American Cotton Plan. 🌱👖🇺🇸
This campaign is for everyone who believes in real products made by real American farmers.
Today in the beautiful Marana, Arizona alongside @SBA_Kelly and @RepCiscomani, and some of our great American farmers, @USDA launched the Great… pic.twitter.com/7AgoRhFQEs— Secretary Brooke Rollins (@SecRollins) May 28, 2026
The initiative addresses challenges facing the U.S. cotton sector, including a loss of global export leadership. Under the previous administration, the U.S. lost its position as the top cotton exporter to Brazil, according to Rollins. The plan seeks to reverse that trend with measures to protect growers from market volatility, support mills and processors, and promote “Plant, not plastic. America, not Brazil.”
Key Elements and Context
Details released with the launch outline a push to promote natural fibers, expand manufacturing and textile production, increase export opportunities, strengthen support for cotton mills, and shield growers from risks.
The Great American Cotton Plan puts farmers first. 🚜🇺🇸
Through the Working Families Tax Cuts Act and targeted policy wins, the Trump Administration is reviving the U.S. cotton sector, supporting rural communities and lowering costs on everyday essentials.
Here’s how we're… pic.twitter.com/vHuO65JDjx
— Dept. of Agriculture (@USDA) May 28, 2026
Texas leads domestic output, accounting for around 40% of U.S. production in recent years, followed by states such as Georgia, Mississippi, and Arkansas.
Globally, the U.S. ranks as the third-largest cotton producer. Brazil has overtaken the U.S. as the top exporter in recent marketing years amid expanded production in that country.
Uses and Economic Role
Cotton remains a cornerstone of U.S. textiles. Approximately 57% of U.S. mill consumption goes into apparel, more than a third into home furnishings, and the rest into industrial products.
Cotton dominates the towel and washcloth market at nearly 100% and holds over 60% of the sheets and pillowcases segment.
Consumers continue to favor cotton for its comfort and quality. Surveys show a strong preference for natural fibers over synthetics in clothing, according to Cotton Incorporated.
The Great American Cotton Plan ties into ongoing administration priorities on domestic production, rural economies, and reducing dependence on foreign synthetics and imports. Implementation details and specific policy tools are expected to follow the launch.
