Finland blocks six foreign real estate purchases on security grounds

Finland’s defence ministry has rejected six property purchase applications by foreign buyers due to national security concerns, public broadcaster Yle reports.

Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen stated that the decisions were made to prevent transactions that could pose risks to national security, defence, border security, or supply resilience. “We are countering property acquisitions where threats to these areas cannot be ruled out,” Häkkänen said in a press release.

The blocked buyers include individuals or companies from Russia, Uzbekistan, China, and Canada. The intended properties—slated for business, residential, or recreational use—are located in Imatra, Savonlinna, Kittilä, Raasepori, Parikkala, and Sysmä.

According to the defence ministry, foreign acquisitions of Finnish real estate may be attempts to establish a foothold in the country or undermine authorities’ operational capabilities. The ministry did not disclose further details about the specific cases.