Panda Prices Plummet

In another sign of deflationary pressures, the Washington Post’s Michael Ruane reports that panda prices have plummeted:

The National Zoo has reached an agreement with China to extend for five years the stay of Washington’s beloved black and white bears at a dramatically reduced cost. …

The old $1 million-a year, 10-year lease expired Dec. 6.

Update: Sarah Brumfield (AP via Washington Times) reports the new price is $500,000 per year, half the previous level.