A Chinese company operating in Gwadar has received formal approval to export donkey meat to China, marking a new development in Pakistan’s livestock exports and the use of Gwadar as a trade hub.

Officials said the approval was granted by the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China to Hangeng, a Chinese firm based in the Gwadar North Free Zone. The clearance followed an online inspection by Chinese authorities to review the company’s operational processes and compliance with regulatory standards.

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According to a report by Gwadar Pro, the company completed all required inspections, certifications, and formalities. With licensing conditions fulfilled, exports are expected to begin next week.

A company official said the first consignment will be shipped from Gwadar using the firm’s facilities in the free zone, including a newly established slaughterhouse developed specifically for this purpose. Once operations are fully underway, the company plans to export around 50 containers of donkey meat to China each month.

Officials noted that the initiative is expected to generate revenue, create employment opportunities for local communities, and contribute to strengthening trade ties between Pakistan and China. By utilizing Gwadar’s port infrastructure, Pakistan aims to enhance the competitiveness of its livestock sector and explore niche international markets.

While the move has sparked discussion within trade and agricultural circles, it reflects broader government efforts to diversify export products and position Gwadar as a center for both industrial and agricultural trade.