**Marineland Disappointed by Federal Denial to Export Beluga Whales**

TORONTO — Marineland has expressed deep disappointment following the federal government's decision to deny its request to export 30 beluga whales to China. Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson announced that the government will not issue an export permit for the whales to be sent to the Chimelong Ocean Kingdom aquarium.

Thompson emphasized her commitment to not allowing the belugas to perform in captivity in the future. Marineland argues that this decision eliminates their only viable option for relocating the whales, as there are currently no sanctuaries available to take them.

The belugas in question are the last remaining captive whales in Canada. In 2019, the federal government enacted legislation banning the captivity of whales, but this law did not apply to the animals already held at Marineland. Since that time, the facility has reported the deaths of 20 whales, including one killer whale and 19 belugas, according to a database compiled from internal documents and official statements.

Marineland has stated that the government's decision leaves them unable to afford the ongoing care and feeding of the remaining whales. The situation has raised concerns about the future of these animals, as the facility navigates the implications of the federal ruling.

This report was first published on October 1, 2025.