A shopping mall in Taiyuan, China, has come under fire for an unusual marketing stunt that allowed customers to enjoy afternoon tea in the presence of lion cubs. The event, hosted at the Wanhui shopping centre, aimed to draw in crowds but has raised serious concerns about animal welfare.
Unusual Attraction Sparks Outrage
Visitors to the mall were offered the chance to sip tea while two young lion cubs roamed nearby, tethered to handlers. The cubs, estimated to be just a few months old, appeared lethargic and disoriented in videos shared online, prompting outrage from animal rights activists.
Animal Welfare Concerns
Experts have condemned the event, stating that exposing wild animals to noisy public environments causes unnecessary stress and could harm their development. "Lion cubs belong in appropriate habitats, not shopping malls," said one wildlife conservationist. "This is purely exploitation for entertainment."
Public Reaction Mixed
While some social media users found the concept amusing, others criticised the mall for prioritising profit over animal welfare. Local authorities have yet to comment on whether the event violated any animal protection laws in China.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about the treatment of exotic animals in commercial settings across Asia, where such attractions remain popular despite growing awareness of animal rights issues.
