Pakistan’s donkey meat export may rise as Chinese companies apply for license

In a development that could open a new avenue for Pakistan's exports, two Chinese companies have formally applied for licences to export donkey meat and byproducts from Pakistan to China. 

The bid came just a day after authorities in Islamabad raided an illegal donkey slaughterhouse, seizing nearly 1,000 kilograms of meat and rescuing 50 live animals.

According to officials at the Ministry of National Food Security & Research, the applications include requests for both slaughterhouse operations and export clearance. If approved, it would mark the first time Pakistan has established a regulated supply chain for the export of donkey meat and bones.

Read: Islamabad food authority seizes donkey meat in huge quantity in Tarnol raid 

The ministry confirmed that the applications are undergoing thorough review, with special attention to regulatory compliance and oversight mechanisms, Once regulatory requirements are met, the companies could be authorised to export donkey meat and byproducts to China, per sources.

As part of the proposed framework, all exports would be routed exclusively through the Gwadar port in Balochistan. Authorities have designated Gwadar as the sole processing and export hub for donkey-related products, a move intended to centralise oversight and prevent illegal domestic distribution.

Meat preparation outside of Gwadar will not be permitted under the new rules.

Read: Pakistan's donkey population crosses 6 million

Officials believe that, if approved, the exports could bring in substantial foreign exchange and create economic opportunities, particularly in underdeveloped rural areas. Donkey byproducts are used in traditional Chinese medicine and cosmetics, and demand has surged in recent years.

However, the ministry has also raised red flags about ongoing unlicensed activity in the country. In a particularly alarming case, an unregistered foreign national was reportedly found running an illegal donkey meat operation in the capital.

Authorities have reiterated their commitment to strict regulation and enforcement to prevent the local sale of donkey meat and unauthorised exports.