China has the biggest donkey population in the world, an estimated seven million. The first records of donkeys in China are found during the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220AD) when they were highly prized by the nobility. It was not until centuries later that they became beasts of burden. China has made a significant contribution to equestrian history including, for example, the invention of the breast strap harnessing system and the collar harness - found in China centuries before it made an appearance in Europe.

China is currently undergoing rapid economic and social change, and this includes the increased commercialisation of many livestock enterprises. These enterprises include the rearing of donkeys for their meat, which is still eaten widely in China. This brings some new threats to the welfare of the donkeys involved. At the same time, despite the increasing mechanisation of farming, there are still a great many rural communities which depend on their working donkeys. In these villages most households have a donkey, which is used to cultivate the fields, carry water and transport goods to and from market. However, there has been a decrease in the overall number of donkeys in China, while the proportion of that total being slaughtered for meat has risen.

The Donkey Sanctuary has been visiting China since 2006. Working with the Chinese Agricultural University, we are continuing to increase our understanding of the problems facing donkeys and their owners, and exploring ways to address these problems. Our current strategy is to develop sound relationships with stakeholders by engaging with them as partners, discussing welfare issues, sharing our knowledge and experience, and advocating for improvements where possible.