Hong Kong customs has uncovered two major sea smuggling cases, seizing suspected illicit goods worth about HK$200 million (US$25 million), including 150 tonnes of donkey skin.

The massive haul was discovered aboard a river trade vessel and an ocean-going ship on October 3 and 7, respectively.

“Customs officers inspected on October 7 five containers declared as carrying frozen food and bound for Taiwan, discovering 150 tonnes of donkey skin upon examination,” the Customs and Excise Department said on Monday.

Donkey hides are in high demand in China and are used to make traditional medicinal products believed to improve blood circulation and treat conditions such as anaemia.

The slaughtering of donkeys for their hides has become a significant problem in Africa, with daily rates reportedly reaching up to 400 in Kenya to meet China’s demand, according to Network for Animals, an international animal welfare organisation.

On October 3, customs selected a river trade vessel departing Hong Kong for Macau for inspection based on intelligence analysis and risk assessment.