The price of donkeys in Pakistan has surged significantly in recent months, reaching as high as Rs. 300,000 per donkey due to escalating demand from China. This sharp increase has been driven by the Chinese market’s need for donkey hides, which are used in the production of cosmetics and traditional medicines.
Donkey Prices Surge Due to Chinese Demand
According to a report by Express Tribune, China’s increasing demand for donkey hides has created a thriving export market, leading to a significant rise in prices. As a result, local buyers are finding it difficult to afford donkeys, causing the domestic trade in donkeys to shrink.
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Impact on Local Buyers and Traders
The report highlighted the challenges faced by local buyers, who are now struggling to purchase donkeys due to the higher costs. Meanwhile, traders who export donkey hides to China are actively sourcing donkeys to meet the growing demand. This surge in trade has contributed to the price spike, making donkeys a lucrative asset for exporters.
Senate Committee’s Proposal on Donkey Exports
In July 2024, the Senate Standing Committee on Commerce recommended expanding the export of donkeys to China. The committee suggested that Pakistan should consider exporting whole, living donkeys rather than just the hides. The report also noted that while there are no restrictions on exporting donkey hides, protocols for exporting donkey meat are currently under development.
As demand from China continues to grow, donkey prices in Pakistan are likely to remain high, impacting both local markets and international trade. The potential for expanded donkey exports could open new economic opportunities for traders, but also poses challenges for domestic buyers.
