A Pakistan-China joint venture has launched construction of a donkey farm and processing facility in Gwadar Free Zone. The project aims to boost local employment, develop livestock processing and expand exports to China.
The groundbreaking ceremony of Shahzad and Shao Farm took place on October 18. The investment marks another step in Pakistan-China economic cooperation through Gwadar’s growing industrial zone.
$52 Million Yuan Investment to Create 120 Jobs
Shahzad & Shao Private Farm Co., Ltd. operates in Gwadar Free Zone. The project covers approximately 16,500 square metres, including a building area of around 5,000 square metres.
The company estimates total investment at 52 million yuan. It also expects to create around 120 local jobs, offering employment and technical training opportunities.
Gwadar Free Zone Promotes Industrial Growth
Gwadar Port Authority Chairman Noor-ul-Haq Baloch said industrial development in the free zone would help businesses access international markets through Gwadar Port.
He also highlighted investment opportunities in Balochistan’s agriculture, fisheries and livestock sectors.
Meanwhile, Shahzad and Shao Farm CEO Shao Yunfei said joint investment could connect local resources with international markets. He added that the project would create jobs and provide technical training for local youth.
Donkey Processing Facility Targets Chinese Market
The Pakistani and Chinese partners secured four acres of land in Gwadar North Free Zone to establish a donkey slaughterhouse and processing factory. The facility will process donkey meat and hides for export to China.
The company conducted initial soil testing on August 10 in line with applicable regulations. It has also obtained a quota to slaughter up to 150,000 donkeys annually, according to the information provided by Gwadar Pro.
A Gwadar Port Authority official said the company had secured the required licences and no-objection certificates from Pakistan’s Ministry of National Food Security and Research, the Animal Quarantine Department and China’s General Administration of Customs.
Local Farmers Could Benefit from New Opportunities
The company is exploring partnerships with donkey farmers in Sindh and Punjab to develop local supply chains. Such partnerships could create new income opportunities for farmers while supporting livestock-related businesses.
Furthermore, the project may encourage additional investment in Gwadar North Free Zone. According to the GPA official, several other companies have applied for land, including MLG Farms, Sang Yang Global Limited and Foshan Brothers and Sisters Trading Company.
China’s Demand for Donkey Products
China has a market for donkey meat and hides. Donkey hide serves as a key raw material for Ejiao, a traditional Chinese product used in traditional medicine.
Pakistan has an estimated 5.8 million donkeys, making it one of the world’s largest donkey-owning countries. This livestock base could support commercial processing and exports if businesses develop sustainable supply chains and comply with animal health and export regulations.
Gwadar’s Role in Pakistan-China Trade
The Shahzad and Shao Farm project highlights Gwadar’s potential to connect Pakistan’s livestock resources with international markets. By combining investment, local sourcing and processing, the venture aims to create jobs and expand export-oriented industrial activity.
As the Gwadar Free Zone attracts further investment, such projects could strengthen Pakistan-China commercial ties and support economic opportunities in Balochistan.
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