Saffron production in Afghanistan has almost doubled in a year

Almaty. December 21. Silkroadnews – The volume of saffron production in Afghanistan has increased by 90% and reached 6 tonnes this year, with sales revenues amounted to $15 million, Afghan news agency (AfTAG) informs.

According to data by Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock, this year crop area allocated for saffron was increased by 250% compared to previous years.

As the ministry’s spokesperson Lutfullah Rashid said, a total of 2810 hectares of land has been allocated for saffron cultivation this year. Last year the production volume made 3.5 tonnes, this year it amounted to around 6 tonnes, which is about 90% increase. As a result, the farmers’ revenue amounted to more than $15 million.

According to ministry’s officials, now the measures are taken to promote the product among the buyers in the Arab countries. In addition, the protocol of intent on purchase of saffron was also signed with China.