Updated: June 27, 2025 2:20 PM IST 
China has many flourishing industries which contributes majorly to the country’s economy. But there is also a dark side to it. There is a industry in China which is responsible for killing of millions of donkeys. So much so that donkey population at a serious risk globally. The crisis is so deep that China is importing donkeys from Africa. Let’s find out why?
In China, millions of donkeys are being killed every year for the production of traditional medicine , putting donkey population at a serious risk globally. According to an estimate, this industry is worth $6.8 billion (about Rs 58,000 crore).
Why are the donkeys being killed?
Ejiao is a traditional Chinese medicine made from gelatin extracted from donkey skin. It is used to increase blood, improve the immune system, reduce fatigue and treat some diseases. It is also used in beauty products. According to UK charity organisation ‘The Donkey Sanctuary,’ about 6 million donkeys are being killed every year for traditional medicines in China.
What are the medicinal use?
The Chinese medicine made from gelatin extracted from donkey skin. It is used to increase blood, improve the immune system, reduce fatigue and treat some diseases. It is also used in beauty products.
What is the worth of industry?
According to China’s research firm ‘Qianzhan’, this industry is worth $6.8 billion (about Rs 58,000 crore). The number of donkeys in China was 1.1 crore in 1992, which decreased to 15 lakh in 2023. Therefore, China is looking towards Africa to meet its demand. In view of the decline in the number of donkeys, the African Union has banned the killing of donkeys for 15 years last year. In fact, this is having a bad effect on the villagers of Africa who depend on these animals.
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