DUBAI: Iran has reported to have exported some 48.4 tons of saffron worth over $147 million during the first 6 months of the current Iranian year local media reported. The exports showed a 7 percent increase compared to the same period of the previous year. Iran's saffron output is predicted to hit 250 tonnes by the end of the current year (March 20, 2013), showing an increase of 40 tonnes compared to the previous year, the head of the association of saffron farmers of South Khorasan Province Ali Hosseini said. Last year, over 130 tons of saffron produce was exported, which was 47 percent more than the figure in its preceding year, Hosseini added. He put the domestic consumption of saffron at 40 tonnes approximately. The Iranian administration has developed a plan for raising the annual saffron output to 500 tons by 2021, according to a local media. The plan has envisaged boosting the saffron output to 500 tonnes 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. Approximately 300 tonnes 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.
