Pakistan, China Collaborate on Donkey Farming Initiative to Boost Exports and Trade Ties

Islamabad — In a move to strengthen economic cooperation and diversify agricultural exports, Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, held a meeting with Mr. Zaho Fei, Vice President of China’s Donkey Industry Branch, in Islamabad on Saturday.

The Chinese delegation expressed a strong interest in establishing donkey farms in Pakistan, highlighting the country’s favorable climate and environment for donkey breeding. The proposed collaboration aims to support the growing demand for donkey-derived products in China, particularly meat and hides.

Minister Hussain welcomed the initiative, reaffirming the enduring partnership between Pakistan and China. He assured the delegation that permission to set up donkey farms would be granted following the completion of all legal and regulatory formalities. He also emphasized that any formal agreement will include clear provisions to ensure that Pakistan’s indigenous donkey population remains unaffected by the breeding activities.

The project will be based in the Gwadar Export Processing Zone, where Chinese investors will be allowed to develop farms, slaughterhouses, and export facilities. This infrastructure will support the direct export of donkey meat and related products to China through the strategic Gwadar Port.

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“This initiative not only promises to increase Pakistan’s exports but also provides a unique opportunity to create jobs and stimulate economic activity at the grassroots level,” Minister Hussain said. “It reflects our government’s commitment to fostering new trade avenues and reinforcing our agricultural sector.”

The development marks a new chapter in agricultural collaboration between the two countries and is expected to contribute positively to Pakistan’s trade balance and rural economy.