One of Arizona’s “five C’s” that built the state’s economy is struggling. Here’s why.
PHOENIX — Arizona cotton farmers took a major financial hit in 2025, though some farmers hope things will turn around with government intervention.
“U.S. tariffs have had a significant negative impact on the cotton industry, particularly with the loss of China as a key export market,” said Jadee Rohner of the AZ Cotton Growers Association. “Despite these challenges, there are positive developments.”
The association said China’s retaliation against U.S. tariffs means China has gone from purchasing 3 to 5 billion bales of U.S. cotton per year to just a few thousand.
One study at the University of Arizona links about 1,500 jobs to the state’s cotton industry.
Rohner said the association is encouraged by the bipartisan Buy American Cotton Act, which would “incentivize brands and retailers to source U.S. cotton.”
There is also renewed trade engagement with Bangladesh.
The Trump administration recently announced the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program, a $12 billion aid package to farmers impacted by trade disruptions.
The American Farm Bureau calls the aid a good first step and estimates U.S. crop farmers lost $34 billion in 2025. Many of those farmers are also relying on insurance and existing government aid programs to keep businesses alive.
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