Iran projects 40-ton rise in saffron production

TEHRAN,May 29(MNA) - Iran’s saffron output is projected to hit 250 tons in the current Iranian calendar year (ends in March 23),showing 40 tons rise compared to the last year, the head of the association of saffron farmers of South Khorasan Province stated. Last year, over 130 tons of saffron produce was exported, which was 47 percent more than the figure in its preceding year, Ali Hosseini told on Monday. He put the domestic consumption of saffron at 40 tons approximately. The Iranian administration has developed a plan for raising the annual saffron output to 500 tons by 2021. The plan has envisaged boosting the saffron output to 500 tons in 2021 and boosting exports to over $1 billion. Iran accounts for around 96 percent of the world’s total saffron production. The country exports saffron to 46 countries including European and the Persian Gulf countries. Due to its diverse climate and fertile soil, Iran’s agriculture products are rated among the best in the world with its saffron standing second to none. Around 300 tons of saffron, which is a spice derived from the flower of the saffron crocus, are produced worldwide each year, with Iran, Spain, India, Greece, Azerbaijan, Morocco and Italy accounting for the largest shares, according to Press TV.