But what is it about saffron that makes it so special, and is it why more farmers are turning to it?
Well, this old luxury spice is already regarded as a land of great opportunity and has introduced Pakistan to the list of agricultural exporters. This is how the growing importance of saffron can be seen in the Pakistani market, and it has become an acting interest of many farmers.
Why Saffron? The Appeal of "Red Gold"
Saffron is one of the most costly spices in the world, sometimes called "red gold". It is known for its unique flavor and wide array of health benefits which makes it a widely sought-after product in both culinary and medicinal markets.
One of the most appealing aspects of saffron is that it can be cultivated in places where no one else could succeed. Saffron grows in the cooler climates a little in the northern side, where there are also dry conditions of Pakistan such as Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the ablation parts of Balochistan.
As consumers increasingly seek organic and natural products, saffron has made its way into international markets. In Pakistan, saffron is a crop that would greatly profit farmers with its capacity to make money.
The Reasons Why Saffron Market Is Growing In Pakistan’s Market
Increasing Demand for Foreign Markets for Crocus sativus
The world is consuming saffron at an increasing rate. Saffron has huge global demand, being sought after due to its fabric in luxury cuisines, health products, and even cosmetics. Saffron is widely consumed in the United States, the United Kingdom, and several Middle Eastern countries.
The growing international interest in saffron harbors the vast potential for Pakistan, which has perfect growing conditions and low cost of production of this crop, and can enter into import markets as a major producer.
As per estimates, the global saffron market is growing significantly. It shows a compound annual growth rate of 5% to reach $3 billion by 2025. With the market expanding, countries such as Pakistan now have a veritable chance of increasing their agricultural exports.
Farmers can also benefit from the growing saffron price per gram in Pakistan, as the crop’s premium quality appeals to international buyers. Thus, for farmers, this represents an opportunity to diversify their crop portfolio.
Economic and Environmental Gains for Pakistan
Pakistan can reap many economic and environmental benefits through the cultivation of saffron. On the economic front, there is a huge potential for saffron to boost rural economies.
Since more than 60% of Pakistan's population lives in rural areas, whose majority (80%) depend directly or indirectly on agriculture, the introduction of high-value crops, such as saffron, can uplift local economies.
Saffron’s environmental impact is also that of a sustainable crop. It needs very little water, making it perfectly suited for power increasingly dosed water shortages.
Pakistan, like many other countries, is also facing severe water issues now, and crops that require less water, like saffron, would probably be a good substitute for water-intensive plants. This will help Pakistan reduce the effects of climate change and water stress through diversification of agriculture.
Support from the Government
The Pakistani government has identified saffron as a potential cash crop for economic development and diversification of crops. At the same time, saffron cultivation has increasingly been encouraged in Pakistan's neglected areas in recent years.
The government is providing subsidies and training for farmers to switch to saffron cultivation and is investing in research to develop new techniques for saffron production.
In areas such as Gilgit-Baltistan, the government is coordinating with agricultural experts and international organizations and providing training for saffron plantation methods, pest management, and processing.
All these collective efforts are directed towards assuring saffron farmers in the production of quality saffron in accordance with international standards and its marketing.
The Upcoming Saffron Brand in Pakistan’s Market
Going forward, saffron’s position in Pakistan's agricultural market is set to expand. As more farmers hold saffron cultivation, saffron output in the country will grow. Along with its potential to become a major player in the world saffron market.
So, if you are a farmer looking for a new venture or a business requiring spices from all over the world, the increased importance of saffron in the market in Pakistan is a great development and an opportunity for the future.