What is the reason for the projected decline in Indian cotton exports in 2022 - 23 according to the USDA's World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report?

In April World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report, the USDA projected 2022 - 23 Indian exports falling by 500,000 bales to 1 . 8 million, roughly equalling its import forecast . Lower domestic supplies, increased demand for foreign long and extra - long staple grades, and the Australia - India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement ( ECTA ) have all supported this recent dynamic . Although India was forecast to be the third largest exporter globally, projected at about 1 . 8 million bales in 2022 - 23, this was still well below the 6 . 2 million during 2021 - 22 . Lower Indian output could allow rivals such as the U . S . , Brazil and Australia to increase cargoes to key Asian buyers such as China and Pakistan .