Islamabad: In a surprising development, China’s booming donkey industry is now eyeing Pakistan as its next major hub for donkey farming. Chinese firms have reportedly initiated talks with Pakistani authorities and local investors to establish large-scale donkey farms in various regions of the country.
According to sources, the move is part of China’s growing demand for donkey hides, used to produce ejiao, a traditional Chinese medicine believed to have multiple health benefits, including improved blood circulation and anti-aging properties.
The proposed farms are expected to be set up primarily in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where vast grazing lands and a rural workforce can support the industry. Local officials are optimistic that the initiative could create thousands of jobs and offer a boost to rural economies.
However, the development has sparked debate. Animal rights activists have raised concerns over ethical farming practices, while economists have warned of potential exploitation without proper regulations in place.
Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce is currently reviewing the proposals and is expected to announce a formal policy framework in the coming months.
With donkey prices already soaring due to increasing Chinese interest, this cross-border collaboration could mark the beginning of a new — and unexpected — chapter in Pakistan’s livestock industry.
