China's donkey hide imports from Africa: drivers and impact

China imports an estimated three million donkey hides annually from Africa, with 25-35% from stolen animals, driven by demand for ejiao, a traditional Chinese medicine tonic. The trade threatens African livelihoods and donkey populations. Demand is fueled by ejiao, a donkey hide gelatin consumed by millions of Chinese women for blood health and wellness. Africa, home to the world's largest donkey population, became a key supply source after China's domestic stock fell short around 2010. The 2024 African Union moratorium on donkey slaughter faces imperfect implementation, as porous borders and patchy regulation persist. Donkey theft deprives rural households of essential labor, with prices rising beyond poor families' reach.