Pakistan to Allow Donkey Meat Exports from Gwadar Free Zone
Pakistan has decided to permit the export of donkey meat from the Gwadar Free Zone, a commercially unusual but economically notable development that targets strong demand markets primarily in China, where donkey-derived products are used in traditional medicine and food. The decision positions the Gwadar Free Zone as a processing and export hub for a non-conventional livestock product.
China is the world's largest consumer of ejiao, a gelatin derived from donkey hide used in traditional Chinese medicine, and has increasingly sought supply chain partnerships with countries that have donkey populations. Pakistan has a significant donkey population concentrated in rural and semi-arid regions, and the government has been evaluating the export potential of this livestock asset.
The decision to route exports through the Gwadar Free Zone leverages the zone's customs exemptions, logistical infrastructure, and direct shipping access to Chinese ports under CPEC-linked maritime routes. Industry observers note that formal quality and certification standards will need to be established before export volumes can scale.
The announcement is likely to generate domestic debate given religious and cultural sensitivities around the use of donkey meat. Officials will need to communicate clearly that the product is designated exclusively for export through a designated free zone rather than for domestic consumption.
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