Govt Allows Donkey Hide Exports Under Strict Regulations
Islamabad, October 3, 2025 —
The federal government has lifted the decade-long ban on the export of donkey hides, introducing new regulatory measures through an amendment to the Ministry of Commerce’s Export Policy Order.
The move reverses the 2015 decision by the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), which had prohibited donkey hide exports amid concerns about the illegal sale of donkey meat being passed off as beef and mutton in local markets.
Key Conditions for Export
Under the revised policy, the export of donkey hides will only be permitted through approved, registered slaughterhouses located within the Gwadar Free Zone. This condition aims to regulate the trade and prevent misuse.
The latest notification confirms that the previous ban clause has now been removed from the official Export Policy Order.
Trade Links with China
This decision follows updates shared with the Senate Standing Committee on Commerce in July, where it was revealed that Pakistan had finalized protocols for exporting donkey skins and meat to China. Agreements for the export of onions, potatoes, and chillies were also discussed at the time.
Concerns Over Animal Welfare
While the government’s move opens new trade opportunities, it has also sparked debate about animal welfare. In August, a consultative workshop highlighted the global challenges linked to the donkey hide trade. According to reports, out of the world’s 55.5 million donkeys, nearly 6 million are slaughtered each year for their skins.
The government has stressed that strict regulations will remain in place to ensure proper monitoring of this trade.
