Analysis of the Impact of Target Price Reform on Cotton Production in Xinjiang

【Objective】 To study the impact of target price reform on cotton production and main bodies of production and operation in Xinjiang. 【Methods】 Using 2011-2018 statistical yearbook data, cotton quality public inspection data, and cost-benefit survey data, a comparative analysis of the differences was made between the changes in cotton production and main bodies of production and operation in Xinjiang before and after the implementation of the cotton target price in 2014. 【Results】 The proportion of Xinjiang's cotton planting acreage and production in the country increased year by year, reaching 74.3% and 83.7%, respectively, accounting for more than two thirds of the country's total; cotton quality was steadily improving, with an average length of 28-29 mm in the upper half, a break ratio strength of 27-28 cN/tex, and A and B grades of Macron value occupied 70%-80%; the machine-picked cotton developed rapidly which its ratio reached 44.6%; the cost of materials and services in the cost of production of planting cotton increased each year, increasing to 988.1/acre in 2018. 【Conclusion】 The implementation of the target price reform has promoted a significant increase in the level of cotton production in Xinjiang, and its importance for the country is highlighted; the cotton quality is mixed with good and bad points, but the overall quality is steadily improving in general; the potential for the development of machine-picked cotton remains large; The implementation of the target price reform not only protects farmers' income, but also promotes the development of organized cotton planting.