Pakistan has once again drawn global attention in the world of trophy hunting. A single permit to hunt the rare Astore markhor in Gilgit-Baltistan has been sold for a record-breaking $370,000. This is now the highest fee ever paid for a hunting license anywhere in the world.
The Astore markhor, Pakistan’s national animal, is considered one of the most prized trophies among international hunters due to its rarity and unique spiral horns. The auction has placed Pakistan at the center of global discussions, with both praise and criticism. While the program is controversial, officials highlight that the majority of the funds are directed towards local communities and wildlife conservation efforts.
The permit was secured by Raja Farhad Maqpoon, owner of Shikar Safaris, for the Nanga Parbat conservancy area during the Wildlife and Parks Department’s annual trophy hunting auction. In total, 118 hunting permits were auctioned for the 2025–26 season, including four Astore markhors, 100 Himalayan ibex, and 14 blue sheep. The second-highest bid for a markhor reached $286,000, while the top permits for blue sheep and Himalayan ibex sold for $40,000 and $13,000, respectively.
GB Conservator for Parks and Wildlife Khadim Abbas stated, “This is a record for the highest markhor hunting permit bid in the world and in Pakistan.” The previous record was $271,000, set in Chitral last year. The department also raised base prices this year, setting the minimum bid for a markhor at $200,000 (up from $150,000). Base prices for blue sheep and ibex were fixed at $30,000 and $10,000, respectively.
While the programme has long been credited with reviving endangered species by channeling 80 percent of revenues back into local communities for conservation and development, some outfitters warned the steep hikes may discourage foreign hunters. Ikram Baig, president of the GB Association of Tour Operators, cautioned, “If conservation is replaced with short-term financial gains, the model could collapse, harming both wildlife and communities.”
Launched in 1990, the trophy hunting programme is considered a key conservation success story in the region.
