Afghanistan’s Saffron Industry Thrives with UN Support, 40-Ton Harvest, and $29.5M in Exports

The World Food Programme (WFP) has announced its commitment to supporting Afghan saffron farmers by providing high-quality saffron bulbs, expert consultation, and improved cultivation techniques. This initiative aims to enhance food security while fostering sustainable livelihoods for Afghan communities.

Saffron, often referred to as the “red gold” of Afghanistan, presents a lucrative opportunity for economic stability. The WFP, through its latest initiatives, has highlighted saffron farming as an essential alternative to illicit crops, aligning with global efforts to promote sustainable agriculture in the region.

A significant portion of Afghanistan’s saffron processing is led by women. Abdul Wahid Sadat, deputy head of the Afghan Saffron Union, revealed that 85% of saffron processing is handled by women, with around 50,000 to 60,000 women actively engaged in the industry in Herat province alone.

The expansion of saffron cultivation has provided women with economic independence and a critical role in the country’s agricultural economy, marking a transformative shift in employment opportunities for Afghan women.

Afghanistan has harvested 40 metric tons of saffron in 2024, a significant increase from 23 tons in 2023. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock, this growth is attributed to favorable weather conditions, increased rainfall, the adoption of modern harvesting techniques, and the distribution of improved saffron bulbs.

The export market for Afghan saffron is also expanding, with over 42,200 kilograms exported in the first nine months of 2024, generating approximately $29.5 million. Major buyers of Afghan saffron include India, Spain, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, France, Australia, and Turkey.

Despite its success, the Afghan saffron industry faces multiple challenges. Exporters have voiced concerns over the lack of standardized markets, banking restrictions, and inactive air corridors, which hinder global distribution.

Qudratullah Rehmati, deputy head of the Afghanistan Saffron Union, has called for immediate action by the government to resolve these challenges. Similarly, saffron exporter Somaya Siddiqi highlighted difficulties related to banking limitations, limited air flights, and visa challenges, especially in securing access to major markets like India.

The Afghan government and international organizations continue to emphasize saffron as a sustainable alternative to poppy cultivation. With saffron farming now expanded to 30 provinces, the Ministry of Agriculture has introduced initiatives to further strengthen its production and global reach.

For Afghanistan’s saffron industry to reach its full potential, continued investment in infrastructure,

 trade facilitation, and international partnerships will be crucial. If these efforts persist, Afghanistan could establish itself as a dominant force in the global saffron market, providing economic stability for thousands of farmers and empowering local communities for years to come.