The Agriculture Department announced a new Great American Cotton Plan on Thursday, saying it aims to strengthen cotton farm income, expand trade and increase demand for U.S.-grown cotton. USDA said the plan includes support for domestic textile manufacturing and a broader “Plant Not Plastic” initiative promoting cotton-based products. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said the effort is intended to restore profitability for cotton producers and rural communities. The department said it also supports the Buying American Cotton Act, which is designed to encourage the use of domestically produced cotton in federal purchases. Farm Progress reported that cotton producers have faced tight margins and policy uncertainty as input costs remain elevated across agriculture. USDA said the plan will focus on marketing, manufacturing and export opportunities. The announcement comes as commodity groups continue pressing for stronger safety-net programs and new demand outlets for crops and fiber markets this year too.