Financial analysis usIng comparative statistics helps farmers identify relative strengths and

weaknesses. Accompanying budgets and long term business plans wlll then focus on ways to

overcome weaknesses and build on strengths . In other words, this comparative analysis is a

management tool to implement change and to identify where effort should be directed on a day

to day basis.

ObviousIy, this analysis does not provide all the answers. It is a benchmark or a standard to strive for. It is up to management to develop and implement specific action plans based on their

improved knowledge, to reach new goals set.

These reliable, independent figures are the starting point for farmers to develop "best practise".

In this report, we present an analytical review of the 2002 cotton crop results, a comparison with prior years and comments on emerging trends.