Saffron is cherished around the globe for its exquisite taste, enticing aroma, and vividly brilliant hue, earning it the name “red gold.” In the culinary world, saffron is considered one of the most cherished spices. Its applications go beyond the kitchen, and it is used in the cosmetics sector and in traditional treatments. Lately, there has been an increase in the supply of Kashmiri saffron export from India, leading to steady growth in its exports.

Saffron is one of the most lucrative spices in the world and has proven to carry significant value in the global trade market. For individuals seeking to overcome stagnation in the spice export industry, investing in saffron could yield remarkable returns. Here, we will outline the leading market players, global trends, and most importantly, how to export saffron from India and do it right.

What Makes Indian Saffron So Special?

The essence of saffron lies in the geographical location from which it is procured. Kashmiri saffron is popular because it boasts the following qualities:

  • Predominantly rich in crocin, which is proven to have several health benefits
  • Top-tier aromatic and flavor profiles
  • High concentration of saffron oil

The abovementioned points focus heavily on the quality and purity of the saffron from India. With the rise in culinary innovations and growing health consciousness, saffron export from India is gaining increased attention for delivering premium-grade saffron to global markets

Top Countries import Saffron from India

Some of the leading destinations for Indian saffron are

  • United Arab Emirates
  • United States
  • Germany
  • Japan
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Australia

These countries value Kashmiri saffron for its purity, with saffron export from India further benefiting from favorable trade agreements in place.

Top 10 Saffron Brands in India Making Global Impact

Understanding the market leaders is beneficial for newcomers. Here are some of the top 10 saffron brands in India

  • Baby Brand Saffron
  • Lion Saffron
  • Keynote Saffron
  • House of Saffron
  • Shalimar Saffron
  • Upakarma Ayurveda
  • Vedaka Saffron
  • Everest Saffron
  • Zaran Saffron
  • Satvam Saffron

These brands have established trust in both domestic and international markets, significantly contributing to saffron exports from India

How to Export Saffron from India: Step-by-Step Guide 

1. Register Your Business and Get Licenses

The first step involves acquiring the following:

  • IEC from DGFT
  • FSSAI food safety compliance license
  • APEDA registration

These registrations are equally important and form a crucial part of the required documents for export of any agri-based product.

2. Selecting Saffron with the Best Quality

For the best quality saffron, it should come with high levels of crocin, safranal, and picrocrocin. You can source saffron from farmers located in Pulwama, Pampore, and Kishtwar—regions in Kashmir known for their rich saffron heritage until the frosts in late Pallav. These areas play a crucial role in weather-sensitive commodities like saffron. Many saffron exporters in India directly collaborate with local farmers to ensure quality, making them key contributors to the growing trend of saffron export from India

3. Labeling and packaging.

  • Compliance with international vacuum packaging standards is required.
  • Use proper vacuum sealing and dosimetry-grade sealed air bags and glass containers.
  • Grade, weight, country of origin, and expiry details should be meticulously followed.
  • The health and customs of the destination should also be respected.

4. Look for Global Clients

Use the following to get in touch with foreign clients:

  • Expos: Trade fairs and global food and beverage fairs.
  • B2B portals: Alibaba, TradeIndia, and Exim portals.
  • You can create your own export-oriented site, utilize other marketplaces, and engage with NGO-negotiated multilateral consortia. 
  • You can also work with saffron exporters to get mentorship for group exports.

5. Logistics and Shipping

Saffron is both a valuable and low-volume product, making air freight the preferred mode of transportation for saffron export from India. It is essential to coordinate with reputable logistics partners and prepare the necessary documentation, including:

  • Proforma invoice
  • Bill of lading/airway bill
  • Certificate of origin
  • Phytosanitary certificate (if required)

Challenges Faced by Saffron Exporters in India

The saffron export business is fairly new and comes with a variety of challenges, including

  • Price competition from Iran, the world’s largest saffron exporter
  • Adulteration issues are impacting buyer trust.
  • Regulatory complexities in target countries
  • Climatic constraints in Kashmir affecting production

Adopting these challenges with traceability, organic certification, and transparent sourcing would allow saffron export from India to gain a competitive advantage in the global market.

Guidelines for Exporters in 2025

If you are considering entering the saffron industry, here are some tips that can help you:

  • Use small, trial shipments to test market reception.
  • Choose GI-tagged Kashmiri saffron to ensure quality and authenticity.
  • Spend on branding and authentic origin storytelling—buyers now want transparency.
  • Target sub-markets such as organic saffron, wellness, and gift packaging.

Additionally, understanding trade regulations and tariffs is essential, especially when dealing with international buyers who may inquire about import duty in India on saffron products. Being informed about these costs can help you price your exports competitively and maintain profitability.

Prospects for Exporting Saffron from India

Looking to the future, India’s saffron industry should experience steady expansion. The worldwide spice industry is projected to exceed USD 25 billion by 2027, with saffron in a preeminent position. The government is also APEDA, “One District, One Product” schemes, as well as GI-tag promotion, which is benefiting saffron exporters in India.

With digitalization, Indian exporters can now sell directly to consumers worldwide and focus on brand sustainability rather than bulk export reliance.

Conclusion

The demand for Indian saffron is on the rise, offering significant opportunities for exporters in 2025. With the right strategies, certifications, and strict quality assurance, businesses can tap into high-value global markets. For new entrants or expanding enterprises, understanding the nuances of saffron export from India is essential to stay ahead of the competition.

India’s red gold is more than just a spice—it’s a thriving business opportunity. Whether you’re starting from scratch or scaling an existing venture, begin by researching your target markets, arranging proper documentation, and leveraging government initiatives. Partner with trusted saffron exporters in India and explore reliable resources like step-by-step guides on how to export saffron from India to ensure long-term success.

Need help getting started? Contact us today to begin your saffron export journey with expert guidance and trusted connections.