Saffron Market To Reach $883.8 Million By 2033 | CAGR: 7.9%

Saffron Market Growth & Trends

The global saffron market size is estimated to reach USD 883.8 million by 2033, registering a CAGR of 7.9% from 2026 to 2033, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is expected to experience significant growth in the forecast period due to increasing demand for the spice in medical and cosmetic applications. Saffron is a potent source of antioxidants that provide numerous health benefits, with active compounds such as picrocrocin, safranal, and crocin contributing to reducing oxidative damage and inflammation in the brain. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and memory-enhancing properties are likely to drive market growth. In addition, the cosmetics industry uses saffron as a natural UV-absorbing agent.

Image processing technology, pilot scale, and electric nose are some of the key technologies used in processing saffron. Manual separation of stigmas has been the norm, but the image processing method offers a less time-consuming approach. ISO Standard 3632 is the requirement that governs quality measurement. However, adulteration is a growing concern in the global market due to saffron's high price and increased demand, with products resembling saffron being mixed in as adulterants.

The market in Middle East and Africa is growing and is attributable to the increasing demand to its use in traditional cuisine. Saffron is an essential ingredient in many dishes in the region, such as biryanis, pilafs, and tagines, and it is also used to flavor sweets and desserts. The spice is considered to be a symbol of hospitality and is often served to guests as a sign of respect.

In September 2022, Iran signed a USD 300 million deal with Qatar to supply saffron. Qatar received 200 tons of Iranian saffron, with the first shipment arrived on October 1st. The two countries have been expanding their economic and political ties, with trade exchange growing by 34% in 2021. The Qatari minister hopes to continue expanding economic, trade, and investment cooperation.

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Saffron Market Report Highlights

• In terms of grade, the grade I (above 190) segment accounted for the largest revenue share of 52.4% of the saffron market in 2025 and is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period.

• In terms of type, the traditional type segment held the largest revenue share in 2025, driven by its unique flavor, aroma, and color, which make it a highly valued ingredient in cooking, cosmetics, and traditional medicine.

• In terms of form, the stigma form segment led the global market with the largest revenue share in 2025, and remains the most valued segment in the global saffron market, commanding premium prices and setting a benchmark for quality standards.

• In terms of product, the food & beverage segment dominated the saffron market with the largest revenue share in 2025.

• In terms of distribution channel, the B2B distribution segment dominated the global saffron market in 2025, driven by the growing trend of using saffron as a natural coloring and flavoring agent in food and beverages.

• Middle East and Africa held the largest revenue share of 54.2% in 2025, attributable to the increasing demand for its use in traditional cuisine.

Saffron Market Segmentation

Grand View Research has segmented the global saffron market based on grade, type, form, product, distribution, and region:

Saffron Grade Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

• Grade I (above 190)

• Grade II (150-190)

• Grade III (110-149)

• Grade IV (less than 110)

Saffron Type Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

• Organic

• Traditional

Saffron Form Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

• Liquid

• Powder

• Stigma

• Petals

• Stamen

Saffron Product Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

• Food supplements

• Cosmetics

• Personal care products

• Food & beverage

• Others

Saffron Distribution Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

• B2B

• B2C

Saffron Regional Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

• North America

  • U.S.

  • Canada

  • Mexico

• Europe

  • Germany

  • UK

  • France

  • Italy

  • Spain

• Asia Pacific

  • China

  • India

  • Japan

  • Australia

• Central & South America

  • Brazil

  • Argentina

• Middle East & Africa

  • South Africa

  • UAE

  • Iran

List of Key Players in the Saffron Market

• Esfedan Saffron

• Tarvand Saffron Ghaen

• Gohar Saffron

• Rowhani Saffron Co.

• Mehr Saffron

• Florasaffron

• Royal Saffron Company