Japan set to be without pandas for first time since 1972

Japan is to end up without pandas for the first time since 1972, as the two remaining twin giant pandas, male Xiao Xiao and female Lei Lei, are set to leave for China ahead of schedule, amid the deteriorating relations between the nations, The Asahi Shimbun reported, citing sources familiar with the matter.

These giant pandas were born at Tokyo’s Ueno Zoo in 2021. In accordance with the lease agreement, aimed at joint research to protect the species, they were initially scheduled to depart for China in February 2026, but sources say the return will now occur in January.

The male and female pandas are currently the only pandas in the country. Although Tokyo has sought to lease additional pandas from China, prospects for success appear slim.

Japan received its first pandas in 1972, when diplomatic ties with China were established. Since then, more than 30 pandas have been brought to Japan from China or born in the country.

The development comes amid continued diplomatic tensions between the countries, following Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s remarks about Taiwan, stating that if a Chinese attack on Taiwan threatened Japan’s survival, it could trigger a military response.