Pakistan is looking to expand exports of donkey meat and other donkey-derived products to China, where demand is being driven by the perceived “nutritional and medicinal properties” of such products, according to the Pakistan Economic Survey 2025-26 as reported news agency PTI.The survey, released on Thursday by finance minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, identified donkey meat exports as a potential growth area under a section titled ‘New Export Avenue for Donkey Meat and Other Products’.The document noted that the “export of donkey meat, hides, and related products offers a niche market with strong growth potential, driven by rising demand in China where donkey meat, milk, and Eijiao (gelatin) are valued for their nutritional and medicinal properties”.According to the survey, Pakistan has already put in place measures to facilitate the trade. It said the federal government has signed sanitary protocols with China for these exports, a move aimed at encouraging foreign investment, strengthening bilateral ties and creating employment and livelihood opportunities for local farmers.The survey also disclosed that a new licence has been granted to M/s Shahzad and Shao to establish a donkey slaughterhouse in the Gwadar Free Zone. With the approval, the number of licensed companies involved in the sector has increased to two, besides M/s Hangeng Trade.Data in the survey showed that Pakistan’s donkey population rose to 6.2 million in 2025-26 from 6 million in 2024-25. The number stood at 5.9 million in 2023-24.Traditionally, donkeys have been used to carry and pull heavy loads and remain an important part of rural livelihoods, helping transport crops, fodder, wood and other goods in agrarian areas.
