Tasnim � Iran has exported 105 tons of saffron to 47 countries in the first six months of the current Iranian calendar year (March 21 � September 22), the deputy head of the National Saffron Council said.

Speaking to the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), Gholam Reza Miri said during the first six months of the current Iranian year, 105 tons of saffron worth $145 million were exported to 47 countries.

The official added that the figure shows a 40 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

Iran is now known as the world�s first producer of the �red gold (saffron)�, he said, adding that, therefore, planning and support should be such that the country would be able to maintain its position in terms of production.

Iran has stepped up efforts in recent years to enhance its non-oil exports and reduce dependency on its oil revenues.

In 2014, the country�s exports of commodities and natural-gas condensate reached $50 billion, showing a 19 percent increase.

There was also a boom in Iran�s service exports in diverse sectors, including tourism, engineering, and transit.