As a specialist in the field of wildlife conservation and international relations, I understand the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the topic of giant panda conservation and their international exchange programs. It is important to clarify that buying a baby panda, or any panda for that matter, is not a feasible or ethical option. Giant pandas are an endangered species, and their protection and management are governed by strict international laws and agreements.

The giant panda is a national treasure of China and is listed as an endangered species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. China does not sell pandas to any country or individual. Instead, it has a program for the international exchange of giant pandas, which is based on agreements between the Chinese government and the governments of other countries. These agreements are often referred to as "panda diplomacy" and are part of China's efforts to promote international relations and raise awareness about panda conservation.

Under these agreements, foreign zoos can participate in a panda loan program. The zoos do not purchase the pandas but rather enter into a cooperative research and breeding agreement. The fees associated with this program are not for buying the pandas but for supporting their care, research, and conservation efforts. The statement that U.S. zoos pay a high fee for pandas is partially correct. It is true that the fees can be substantial, but they are not for purchasing the pandas outright. Instead, they are to cover the costs of the pandas' upkeep, veterinary care, and the collaborative research and breeding programs.

The fees mentioned in the provided reference, ranging from $250,000 to $500,000 per year, are indeed part of the financial commitment that zoos must make to participate in the panda loan program. These funds are used to support panda conservation projects in China and to ensure that the pandas are well cared for while they are on loan. It is also worth noting that the panda loan program has strict requirements regarding the pandas' living conditions, diet, and veterinary care, all of which contribute to the overall cost.

In conclusion, the concept of "buying" a baby panda is a misunderstanding of the panda loan program. The fees involved are for the support of conservation efforts and the care of the pandas while they are on loan, not for purchasing them as one would a commodity. The program is a testament to the international community's commitment to the preservation of this iconic species and the collaborative efforts to ensure their survival.

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The reason is because China leases the each panda to zoos for $2 million (in "panda cost and research"). And then there are the habitats the zoos must build, plus the expensive diets they have - oh, and if there's a baby, that's another $600,000 per year.read more >>