Pakistani authorities have halted an attempted smuggling operation involving donkey hides valued at nearly Rs80 million (approximately $284,000), which were being illegally shipped to China.
The shipment, cleared through Karachi’s South Asia Pakistan Terminal (SAPT) under the container number SEGU-3154225, was falsely declared by the exporting firm—Wow Trading—as consisting of leather goods. However, based on a tip-off, Pakistan Customs’ Anti-Smuggling Organization conducted a detailed inspection and uncovered 14,000 kilograms of donkey hides hidden inside the container.
Exporting donkey skins is currently banned under Pakistan’s trade regulations. Customs officials confirmed that legal action has been initiated against those responsible, and further inquiries are underway.
Pakistan possesses one of the largest donkey populations in the world, reaching around 5.9 million in 2023–24 according to the Pakistan Economic Survey. Donkey hides are highly sought after in China for making Ejiao, a traditional medicinal product believed to offer various health benefits. Donkey meat is also consumed in some regional cuisines in China.
This interception is part of Pakistan’s broader crackdown on smuggling activities. Customs Enforcement Collector Moinuddin Wani praised the team for their vigilance and commitment in disrupting the illegal export operation.
