Why is China buying up the global supply of donkeys?

(CNN)Gelatin produced from donkey hide is a key ingredient of one of China's favorite traditional remedies, known as ejiao, which is used to treat a range of ailments from colds to insomnia.

But as the rising power shifts towards advanced industry and away from traditional agriculture, donkeys are in decline. State statistics show the population has fallen from 11 million to six million over the last 20 years.

Opportunity knocks China's huge appetite for donkeys does create opportunities that exporters can benefit from with careful planning, says Igbinoba. "There is steady demand for the gelatin," he says. "If African countries can regulate well, with high standard abattoirs, and train people how to rear these animals, the donkey can be an important source of income." Burkina has announced plans to regulate donkey sales, but will face competition from continental rivals willing to pick up the slack. Major economies such as Kenya and South Africa are scaling up their facilities to meet Chinese demand, and a black market is also flourishing across the continent. Chinese demand is expected to increase with a growing consumer class willing to spend on luxury goods such as ejiao. The challenge for suppliers is to ensure the trade is a blessing rather than a curse.