Pakistan is set to begin exporting donkey meat and hides to China by the end of the year, as demand for these products grows in the neighboring country. Dr. Ikram, from Pakistan’s Ministry of National Food Security and Research, confirmed the agreement during an interview with Independent Urdu.
He revealed that Pakistan has agreed to supply 216,000 donkey hides and meat annually to China. Chinese companies have expressed interest in building slaughterhouses near Karachi Port, but due to concerns over food security, these facilities will be constructed outside the city, preferably near commercial ports.
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In a July briefing to the Senate Standing Committee on Commerce, the Secretary of Commerce clarified that no ban exists on exporting donkeys, and Pakistan has already started donkey farming. While the agreement on donkey hides with China is finalized, talks on exporting donkey meat are ongoing.
Dr. Ikram also disclosed plans to build new slaughterhouses in Gwadar to handle these exports, ensuring that the local market remains unaffected. The facility will be able to process 216,000 donkeys annually.
Addressing donkey farming, Dr. Ikram noted Pakistan’s current population of 5.2 million donkeys, as per the latest census, and highlighted efforts to collaborate with Chinese companies to establish breeding facilities, creating local job opportunities.
Donkey meat is a popular delicacy in China, particularly in Hebei province, where restaurants often advertise it with images of donkeys. In addition, donkey hides are used in traditional Chinese medicines like Ejiao, which is believed to aid blood circulation, treat insomnia, and relieve dry coughs.
