FAO ranks Iran world’s top producer of saffron, roses and dates
Iran ranked first in global production of saffron, Damask roses and dates in 2024, while placing second in pistachios, apricots, peaches and nectarines, according to data released by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
According to Mehr news agency, FAO data comparing 2024 production with 2023 showed Iran ranked between first and 13th worldwide in the production of 26 major horticultural products.
Despite international sanctions, Iran improved its global ranking in the production of seven horticultural products and maintained its previous position in 12 others, the report said.
Iran has faced Western sanctions for decades over its nuclear activities, pressure that has weighed most heavily on its oil and energy sectors.
Iran ranked third globally in the production of quinces, cherries and figs, fourth in apples, walnuts, sour cherries and plums, fifth in almonds and kiwifruit, and sixth in oranges.
The country ranked seventh in the production of grapes, lemons and limes, other citrus fruits and edible mushrooms, according to the FAO data.
Iran also placed eighth in hazelnut production, 10th in pears and 12th in mandarins.
Production of olives, sweet lemons, grapefruit and green tea leaves ranked 13th globally in 2024, the data showed.