Tehran – Iran’s Medicinal Plants, Saffron and Food Products Union has called for expanded contract farming, farmer training and organic production to improve food safety and boost the export value of saffron, Damask rose and medicinal plants.

 

Union officials said organic saffron can command 50 percent to twice the price of conventional saffron, which sells for around $1,200 per kilogram on global markets.

 

Mr. Rezaei, the union’s head, said concerns over pesticide residues have posed challenges for Iranian agricultural exports. He noted that product monitoring, traceability and encouraging organic farming had helped resolve 70–80 percent of related problems.

 

According to 2024 data cited by the union, organic farming is practiced in 183 countries, covering about 99 million hectares worldwide. In Iran, however, only 5,322 hectares of farms and orchards are currently managed organically.

 

“The union said Iran’s diverse climate, rich agricultural heritage and variety of native plants offer significant potential for expanding exports of natural and organic products and integrating them into global value chains.”

 

The official stressed that simply reducing pesticide use does not qualify a product as organic; products must meet established standards and obtain valid certification.