Pakistan’s first donkey slaughterhouse, located in Gwadar, has officially begun operations, with production now in full swing. The facility is part of a deal with China for the export of donkey skins and bones, according to officials from the Ministry of Food Security.

During a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Food Security on Thursday, ministry officials revealed that a Chinese company is managing all operations related to the slaughterhouse in Gwadar. The agreement marks a significant step in utilizing donkey by-products for export purposes.

The committee chairman raised questions about why live donkeys were not being exported to China. Officials explained that exporting live animals is a more complex process. However, they noted that applications for additional slaughterhouses are being received from other parts of the country, and discussions are underway with more Chinese companies to expand operations.

A committee member highlighted that donkeys are becoming less common in Pakistan, as loader rickshaws have largely replaced them for transport purposes. He suggested that efforts should be made to breed high-quality donkeys to meet future demand.

In addition to donkeys, the meeting also touched on the topic of duck breeding, though no specific details were provided.