Hanoi holds half of Vietnam’s captive bears
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In Vietnam, Hanoi currently holds 59 of the country’s 126 captive bears, kept by 16 households in Phúc Thọ district.
Authorities are finding it difficult to convince bear owners to surrender the animals to rescue centers. The number of captive bears nationwide has decreased by approximately 97% since 2005, making Hanoi a key location for ending the practice of bear farming.
Local officials in Phúc Thọ explain that owners developed bonds with the bears after years of care and investment, creating challenges for uniform handover approaches. The Phúc Thọ People’s Committee has requested that the Hanoi Forest Protection Sub-department and the Department of Agriculture and Environment advise the city government on issuing a directive to end bear farming, including clear transfer procedures and timelines.
The Education for Nature Vietnam (ENV) suggests a more targeted approach, with authorities clarifying responsibilities, creating measurable plans, and addressing individual owner concerns. Officials propose allowing owners to visit rescue centers to see the conditions for the bears after handover, easing their worries about the animals’ future wellbeing. While awaiting transfers, authorities will continue to monitor the remaining bears and encourage voluntary surrenders.
