SF Zoo Makes Light of Tariffs, Still Pushes to Acquire Pandas

Despite growing concerns that the San Francisco Zoo is ill-equipped to provide a safe and suitable environment for the animals already living there, the Zoo’s executive director, Tanya Peterson, is doubling down on plans to temporarily house two giant pandas from China. The pandas, who would be loaned to the Zoo as part of China’s controversial “Panda Diplomacy” program—which involves sending endangered animals around the world in exchange for hefty fees—could arrive as early as next year.

The plan to bring pandas to San Francisco comes at a time when the United States is embroiled in a contentious trade war with China, and the threat of escalating tariffs is fueling widespread concern about the financial future of many Americans. Despite these uncertain political and economic conditions, Peterson made light of the situation at a Recreation and Parks Commission meeting last month, telling commissioners, “It’s safe to say at this point, there’s no tariffs on endangered species.”

Peterson’s flippant remark suggests a troubling lack of seriousness about the political realities at play—mirroring the lack of care and consideration she has demonstrated throughout her 17-year tenure leading the San Francisco Zoo, which has repeatedly failed to address serious animal welfare concerns.

An audit ordered by the San Francisco Board of Supervisors late last year revealed that the panda acquisition was never financially sustainable. Even after cost-cutting measures, the plan is still expected to cost the Zoo $25 million. That is an unacceptable price tag for an institution that is visibly deteriorating and already struggling to provide appropriate, safe conditions for the animals currently in its care.

It is also unclear how U.S.-China relations will evolve. While recent talks may signal a potential thaw, the situation remains tenuous, and it would be a serious failure of judgment if the San Francisco Zoo invests millions into building a panda habitat at the expense of its other residents, only to have the deal collapse due to ongoing geopolitical tensions. The animals already living at the Zoo deserve better. Every available resource should be used to improve their lives, not to gamble on a high-profile panda acquisition.

Even under the best of circumstances, pandas should never be used as political props. If you haven’t already, please sign our petition opposing this irresponsible panda acquisition.