Finnish government blocks Chinese purchase of historic Tallukka hotel

Finland’s defence minister Antti Häkkänen has blocked the sale of Hotelli Tallukka in Asikkala to Chinese owners, citing national security concerns, Yle reports.

The lakeside hotel, opened in 1971, was sold last autumn to Nordic Inn Oy and Greenstay Oy, both led by Chinese nationals Tijin Shan and Huang Dong. The minister’s decision nullified the transaction after the fact.

Local staff report the new owners had begun revitalising the property, expanding its restaurant and bar operations. Longtime employee Marko Kantele called the change in ownership a “shot in the arm” for the hotel, which had seen varied use over the years, including as a reception centre in 2015.

Residents express understanding for the government’s intervention but worry about the future of the iconic building, as Asikkala lacks comparable accommodation. Local business owners, while noting increased tourism, stress the importance of maintaining lodging capacity for events and seasonal workers.

Cultural café owner Sarita Saloheimo welcomed the authorities’ ability to oversee such property deals, while baker Teppo Ylä-Hemmilä said losing the hotel’s rooms would complicate his operations.

The hotel is now back on the market. It is unclear whether the Chinese buyers were aware of the minister’s pending decision when they listed the property for resale.