Export of donkeys banned after Asian demand

Niger has banned the export of donkeys, warning that a three-fold increase in trade, mainly to Asian countries, is threatening its donkey population. “If the export continues the animals will be decimated,” a government official said. China imports many donkey hides, using the gelatin in medicinal tonics, aphrodisiacs and anti-ageing creams. In August, neighbouring Burkina […]

Niger has banned the export of donkeys, warning that a three-fold increase in trade, mainly to Asian countries, is threatening its donkey population.
“If the export continues the animals will be decimated,” a government official said.
China imports many donkey hides, using the gelatin in medicinal tonics, aphrodisiacs and anti-ageing creams.
In August, neighbouring Burkina Faso banned the export of donkey skins on similar grounds.
“About 80,000 donkeys have been exported so far this year compared to 27,000 last year,” Atte Issa, at Niger’s livestock ministry, said.
The government has also banned the slaughter of any donkeys within Niger.
A donkey now costs between $100 (£75) and $145, when it used to cost about $34.