Donkey meat, hide exports to China get a kick after ECC’s nod

Pakistan’s federal cabinet body, the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), has approved the export of donkey meat and hides to China through Gwadar Port, according to an official statement released after its latest meeting.

The session, chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, reviewed a proposal from the Food Security Division. The committee authorized the disposal and export of existing stock under established regulations and agreed trade protocols, clearing the way for shipments to proceed.

Alongside the export decision, the ECC was briefed on the country’s economic outlook. Officials noted that inflationary pressures are beginning to ease, with prices of essential commodities showing signs of stabilization after recent fluctuations. Data shared during the meeting indicated a slowdown in the pace of price increases, suggesting gradual improvement in overall price stability.

The committee also approved several technical supplementary grants across different sectors. These included funding for institutional upgrades, support packages for government employees posted in provinces, and financial rewards for the national hockey team following its qualification for the World Cup. Additional allocations were made to address liabilities of Pakistan International Airlines, including payments related to pensions, salaries, and medical expenses.

In a separate move, the ECC endorsed amendments to the country’s import policy to align with international labour commitments, introducing restrictions on the import of goods produced through forced labour.