REPORT: Iran’s saffron survives international sanctions

The East of Iran is known for its vast fields planted with saffron crocus, a purple flower by which saffron is extracted. 10 flowers are what it takes to produce a single gram of spice.

Iran which is currently facing severe international sanctions over its nuclear program remains the number one producer and exporter of saffron around the world.

The country produces 90% of the international crop. A saffron merchant told LBCI that the Iranian saffron is the 1st choice of several foreigners who buy it and export it to their homeland. The Gulf countries top the list of Iranian saffron importers.

The merchant added that despite the economic crisis, the blockade and the international sanctions Iran is currently bearing, the saffron preserves its place on the international stock markets.

Also known as the “purple gold”, the saffron is one of the world’s most expensive spices. The price of one gram can reach 3$.

It is said that the saffron has healing powers for stomach diseases and cancer, and could help with boosting the mood of depressed people. Persian mythology tells the story of Persian kings who consumed saffron to gain happiness.

You can find the saffron in several traditional Iranian dishes and drinks. It is a part of the Iranian culture.


For the full LBCI report, please click on the video above