Finland to repatriate pandas to China earlier than scheduled due to financial considerations.

A zoo in Finland has announced that it will return two giant pandas to China eight years ahead of schedule, citing financial challenges in their care. Lumi and Pyry were brought to Finland in 2018 under a bilateral agreement aimed at protecting the species, with plans for a 15-year stay. However, the Ähtäri Zoo will send them back this November, largely attributing the decision to inflation and debt related to the Covid pandemic.

The zoo disclosed that the annual cost to care for the pandas stands at approximately €1.5 million (£1.2 million), coupled with an investment exceeding €8 million in their specialized enclosure. Mahrko Haekosky, the zoo's curator, noted that the pandas' upkeep costs significantly outstrip those of other species combined. This includes expenses for a dedicated keeper, a preservation fee payable to China, and imported bamboo.

While acknowledging that the decision is advantageous for the zoo’s finances—"a good thing since they were so expensive"—Mr. Haekosky expressed disappointment about the pandas’ departure, as they had become a joy to work with and had thrived in their environment.

Another critical factor influencing the decision was the Finnish government's refusal to provide additional funding last year. According to Mr. Haekosky, there had been expectations that the pandas would attract a larger visitor base and be a worthwhile investment, which did not materialize.

Discussions regarding the return of Lumi and Pyry had been ongoing for some time. Before their transportation back to China, the pandas will undergo a month-long quarantine. A spokesperson from Finland's foreign ministry clarified that this decision was based on business considerations and did not involve government interference, assuring that it would not affect diplomatic relations with China. Meanwhile, Finland's embassy in China, responding to inquiries, confirmed that while support efforts were made for the zoo, a consensus was reached to repatriate the pandas.

China's practice of sending pandas to foreign zoos—often referred to as "panda diplomacy"—aims to strengthen international ties, enhance its global image, and promote trade relations.