Key facts
- Pakistan is working to increase exports of donkey meat, hides, and related products to China.
- The Pakistan Economic Survey 2025-26 identified this as a niche market with growth potential.
- Demand in China is driven by the perceived nutritional and medicinal properties of donkey products.
- Sanitary protocols have been signed with China to facilitate these exports.
- A new license was granted for a donkey slaughterhouse in the Gwadar Free Zone.
- The donkey population in Pakistan has grown from 5.9 million to 6.2 million.
Pakistan is actively pursuing an increase in the export of donkey meat and related products to China, viewing it as a significant new trade avenue. The Pakistan Economic Survey 2025-26 highlighted this potential, noting that demand in China is fueled by the perceived nutritional and medicinal benefits of donkey meat, milk, and Eijiao (gelatin).
To support this burgeoning trade, Pakistan has signed sanitary protocols with China. The survey also indicated that the federal government is encouraging foreign investment in this sector, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties and create employment opportunities for local farmers. A new license has been granted to M/s Shahzad and Shao to establish a donkey slaughterhouse in the Gwadar Free Zone, adding to the existing licensed company, M/s Hangeng Trade.
Data from the survey shows a growth in Pakistan's donkey population, increasing from 5.9 million in 2023-24 to 6.2 million in 2025-26. Traditionally, donkeys have played a crucial role in rural Pakistani households for transportation of goods and agricultural materials.