Research Background - Xinjiang is the main cotton-producing area in China, accounting for over 90% of the national cotton output. The planting area in Xinjiang has increased year-on-year, and overall weather conditions have been favorable, but high temperatures and reduced sunlight during the flowering and boll-opening stages have lowered optimistic yield expectations [3]. Research Summary 1. Cotton Growth Status - The visual growth of cotton is good, but actual yield measurements are below expectations. The weight of seed cotton in southern Xinjiang has decreased compared to last year, leading to a significant decline in yield levels. The cotton fiber content has also dropped by 0.5 to 2 percentage points, resulting in a stable or slightly decreased cotton output compared to last year [4]. 2. Change in Yield Expectations - Prior to October, the market expected cotton production to be around 7.5 to 7.6 million tons. However, recent actual yield data suggests production may be just over 7 million tons, with the growth rate dropping from 10% to 5%. The purchase prices for seed cotton have been rising post-holiday, with current high purchase quotes for 38% net fiber content reaching 6.4 to 6.5 yuan/kg [5]. 3. Expected Decrease in Planting Area Next Year - Cotton prices have been weaker compared to previous years, and lower yields are expected to result in reduced profits per mu. Some cotton fields with low yields may be converted to other crops. The prices of intercropped crops have also significantly decreased, diminishing their revenue potential. Policies may further guide the reduction of cotton planting in less suitable areas, reallocating the area for food, oilseed, and high-efficiency crop cultivation [6]. 4. Potential Policy Support Reduction - The target price for Xinjiang cotton is set at 18,600 yuan per ton for 2023-2025, which is the last year of the current subsidy policy. Since the implementation of the target price policy in 2014, cotton production has increased by over 50%, but demand has not shown significant growth. Market expectations suggest that the target price may be reduced next year, with attention on policy documents expected to be released in March/April [8]. 5. Current Market Trend Expectations - Commercial cotton inventory levels are at historical lows, with the registered warehouse receipts for the November contract down 25% year-on-year, currently at 114,000 tons. The main contract is influenced by new cotton supply and demand expectations, with a tightening supply-demand situation anticipated for 2025/26, leading to a noticeable rebound in prices. The current market sentiment is positive regarding next year's cotton prices, with strategies such as the snowball strategy and attention to 1-5 reverse hedging and long call options recommended during the peak processing period [9].