KABUL: Afghan-saffronMinistry of Agriculture Irrigation and Livestock announced on Monday an increase of 17 percent in the outcome of Saffron cultivation in the country.
4,000 kilograms of Saffron was produced in Afghanistan last year but the figure jumped to 4,675 KGs this year with majority of this being produced in western Herat province.
This shows about 17 percent increase in the production of Saffron.
Distribution of Saffron crocus bulbs, equipment and training 335 students on how to plant and collect Saffron, and as well the expert advisory have been identified as the main reasons for the increase, the ministry said.
The Ministry of Agriculture Irrigation and Livestock also says that they have been able to extend the Saffron cultivation program to 23 provinces with the assistance of aiding NGOs.
Government and aiding NGOs recommend Saffron to farmers as an alternative for poppy.
The International Taste & Quality Institute in the Belgian capital of Brussels named Afghanistan’s saffron the best in the world for the third consecutive year in mid 2015.
The award, in the form of a three star certificate, was given to Afghanistan saffron after testing some 300 samples
