What are the animals' meals like while Saigon Zoo is in debt of 800 billion VND?

(NLĐO) - The news that Saigon Zoo owes 800 billion VND has raised concerns about the diet of the animals there.

On December 11-12, a reporter from Nguoi Lao Dong newspaper visited Saigon Zoo to investigate the animals' diets, amidst reports that the zoo owed 800 billion VND in land lease fees.

Saigon Zoo staff mow the grass for the animals.

Mr. Mai Khac Trung Truc, Director of the Saigon Zoo Animal Enterprise, stated: "The responsibility of the animal care department is simply to provide the best possible care for the animals and feed them according to the company's established standards. Therefore, regardless of the company's situation, the food receiving, processing, and feeding departments will continue to operate as before, without any changes in quality or quantity."

Rare silver-gray langurs. Photo: NGOC QUY

Mr. Truc also expressed concern about the company's debt. However, he affirmed that the main mission of Saigon Zoo is to conserve animals, maintain the breeding stock and genetic resources of rare animal species, and serve the needs of people for sightseeing and learning.

Turtles and kangaroos are eating vegetables.

Ms. Vu Thi Huong Giang, Director of Saigon Zoo, expressed her deep concern about the Saigon Zoo being ordered to pay back 800 billion VND in outstanding taxes.

Hippopotamus inside the zoo

Deer herd at the zoo

According to Ms. Giang, the zoo has only recently become a financially independent enterprise. Originally a "non-profit" business, its main purpose is to nurture and conserve rare animal species; however, the unit is still facing difficulties in obtaining guidance from relevant authorities.

Video clip showing animals being cared for.

On the morning of December 11th, the Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee, Phan Van Mai, provided information on the proposed solutions to the problems at Saigon Zoo.

The Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee stated that he will instruct the Department of Natural Resources and Environment to review and revise the land allocation and lease decisions. Specifically, the city will collect taxes on land used for production and business purposes, while the tax on land used for public purposes needs to be recalculated accordingly.

The Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee said: "Land used for public purposes needs to be re-evaluated; land may be allocated but without charging land use fees or land lease fees. After the adjustment, the Tax Department will use that as a basis to recalculate the tax portion."

Source: https://nld.com.vn/bua-an-cua-dan-thu-ra-sao-trong-luc-thao-cam-vien-sai-gon-no-800-ti-dong-196241211152055152.htm