ECC approves export of donkey meat, hides to China

ISLAMABAD: The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) on Monday approved the export of donkey meat and hides from Gwadar Port to China, endorsing a proposal submitted by the Food Security Division for disposal of existing inventory under agreed export protocols.

The meeting, chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, also reviewed key economic indicators, with officials noting easing inflationary pressures and signs of gradual price stabilisation.

According to a briefing by the chief economist, prices of essential commodities have shown a slowing pace of increase after a temporary uptick, indicating improved inflation trends.

The ECC also approved several technical supplementary grants (TSGs), including Rs100 million for the Cannabis Control and Regulatory Authority (CCRA) to renovate facilities, Rs311 million for the Balochistan government to support incentives for federal officials, Rs372 million for the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) to advance digital transformation and AI-based systems, and Rs30 million for financial rewards to the national hockey team after qualifying for the World Cup.

Separately, the committee approved allocation of Rs5.98 billion for the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Holding Company to settle liabilities, including pension, medical and salary payments.

In another decision, the ECC endorsed amendments to the Import Policy Order to align with International Labour Organisation (ILO) commitments, introducing a ban on the import of goods produced through forced labour.