‘Blue Gold’ program focuses on glacier and ice formation protection www.ubpost.mn

The second National "Blue Gold" Forum, held on March 21 brought together 1,200 representatives from government agencies, international organizations, and civil society working in the water sector. The forum, organized under the auspices of President of Mongolia U.Khurelsukh centered around the theme “Let’s Protect Our Glaciers and Ice Formations.”
During the event, President U.Khurelsukh highlighted the importance of safeguarding Mongolia’s water resources, underscoring that the country is currently pursuing several national initiatives, including the “Billions of Trees,” “Healthy Mongol,” “Food Revolution,” and “White Gold” programs. These programs aim to ensure a healthy and safe environment for Mongolian citizens. The president stated, “It is now time to implement the ‘Blue Gold’ Program in the water sector. Every project or initiative we undertake to protect Mongolia’s environment and water resources contributes meaningfully to global efforts to protect water resources.”
The president also emphasized that the success of Mongolia's projects and programs in the water sector would depend on active cooperation and mutual understanding among government bodies, the private sector, and international organizations. He called on both the government and the public to unite in the protection of the environment, preservation of ecological balance, and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals. By doing so, Mongolia can strengthen national security, avoid water shortages, and effectively adapt to climate change.
Minister of Environment and Climate S.Odontuya remarked that the year 2025 has been designated as the "International Year for Glacier Preservation" by the United Nations. She highlighted key government projects in the water sector, such as the Eg River Hydropower Plant and the Orkhon–Ongi and Kherlen-Toonot Projects, as major historical undertakings. These projects are set to improve water supply reliability for the Gobi region and support the “Billions of Trees” initiative by supplying water to arid areas where tree planting is a challenge. To ensure effective implementation, a dedicated Water Project Unit will be created to enhance legal and regulatory frameworks, improve coordination across sectors, and foster partnerships with the private sector.
Z.Batbayar, Director of the Water Department of Mongolia, discussed the critical importance of water not just for health, but for the social and economic development of the country. He pointed out that Mongolia’s glaciers are shrinking annually due to climate change, with the amount of ice already melted exceeding the country's underground water reserves by four times. He emphasized the necessity of water storage to mitigate this issue, urging households to collect snowmelt and rainwater to help preserve water resources.
As a result of the forum, an integrated recommendation was established. The recommendation focuses on improving water-related legislation and governance, preventing the depletion and pollution of water resources, collecting surface water and precipitation, and creating favorable ecosystem conditions. The forum also called for nationwide implementation of initiatives such as "One-Lake," "One Soum-333 Lakes," and "Every Drop." The proposal includes defining financing mechanisms, expanding human resources, and promoting public collaboration and partnerships in the private sector.
March 22 is recognized as World Water Day in accordance with a 1992 UN General Assembly resolution. This year’s celebration focused on “Glacier Preservation” as part of global efforts to raise awareness of the importance of protecting water resources.

U.Khurelsukh: Proud of 20,000 Mongolians leading Oyu Tolgoi's growth www.gogo.mn

Oyu Tolgoi to become the World’s fourth largest copper mine www.montsame.mn

On March 20, 2025, President of Mongolia Khurelsukh Ukhnaa visited the Oyu Tolgoi underground mine in Umnugobi aimag, Mongolia.
Oyu Tolgoi LLC opened a deep mine in 2022 and conducted its 124th blasthole stoping in 2024. This year, ore extraction is expected to increase by 50 percent compared to 2024, leading to a rise in copper concentrate production. In 2028-2030, the mine is projected to produce an average of 500 thousand tons of copper annually from underground and open-pit operations. At its peak, the mine will become the world’s fourth-largest copper producer, supplying enough copper daily to manufacture approximately 17,000 electric vehicles. 
President of Mongolia Khurelsukh Ukhnaa expressed gratitude to the Mongolian workforce and international experts who successfully built and developed the world-class mining infrastructure at a depth of 1,300 meters. The President expressed confidence that this work will set a positive example for Mongolia’s mining industry. 
Oyu Tolgoi’s production and extraction have been increasing year by year, integrating cutting-edge technology while ensuring the highest safety standards. President Khurelsukh acknowledged the dedication and hard work of the entire mining team and affirmed commitment to collaborating with more businesses, individuals, and producers to support their enterprises. 
Chief Executive Officer of Rio Tinto Group Mr. Jakob Stausholm highlighted that the copper extracted from Oyu Tolgoi contributes to global green development. The CEO noted that the copper concentrate produced at Oyu Tolgoi is a crucial component for wind turbines, electric vehicles, and renewable energy infrastructure worldwide. 
As of 2023, Rio Tinto has invested approximately USD 17 billion in Oyu Tolgoi. Since 2010, the company has paid MNT 12 trillion in taxes. Moreover, in the fourth quarter of 2024, Oyu Tolgoi partnered with over 1,000 enterprises, making purchases worth MNT 1 trillion. 
In Umnugobi aimag, Oyu Tolgoi has purchased MNT 4.9 trillion worth of goods and services since 2010 and has provided MNT 187 billion in funding for 354 projects. Additionally, the company has established the Khanbogd Development Accelerator Fund, investing MNT 170 billion to support local development. Currently, more than 20,000 people are employed at Oyu Tolgoi, with 97 percent being Mongolian citizens. Of these, 25 percent are residents of Umnugobi aimag. Women make up 23 percent of the workforce, with plans to increase this figure to 50 percent over the next decade. 
Between 2024 and 2024, the Oyu Tolgoi Project accounted for approximately 17 percent of Mongolia’s total export revenue, 20 percent of its mineral exports, and 44 percent of the country’s foreign exchange reserves. By 2051, Mongolia’s total revenue from the Project is expected to reach USD 11.9 billion. 
To further support the development of a skilled workforce in Mongolia, Oyu Tolgoi has established the Umnugobi Underground Mining Institute, which will train professionals to compete in the global mining industry.

President of Mongolia Khurelsukh Ukhnaa Visits Oyu Tolgoi Underground Mine www.ot.mn

President of Mongolia Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, accompanied by government officials and members of Parliament were welcomed by Rio Tinto Group’s Chief Executive Jakob Stausholm and Oyu Tolgoi senior leaders to the Oyu Tolgoi underground mine.
As Oyu Tolgoi advances on its unwavering path to becoming a global leader in the copper industry, the visit of Mongolia’s President, Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, to the mine stands as a milestone of great importance. With production increase by 50% compared to 2024, the ramp-up will continue over the next four years to produce 500,000 tonnes of copper (100% pure metal) per year, on average, from both the open-pit and underground mines, positioning Oyu Tolgoi as it as the world’s fourth-largest copper mine by the end of this decade.
During his visit, President U.Khurelsukh emphasized, “I take great pride in the 20,000 Mongolian people who are tirelessly working to transform the natural resources of Oyu Tolgoi into national wealth and prosperity. I also want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the foreign specialists who are sharing their expertise and working shoulder to shoulder with Mongolians.”
Rio Tinto Group CEO Jakob Stausholm highlighted that, “It is Mongolia’s valuable contribution to the global green transition, and the green projects we implement here are tangible examples of support for many environmental initiatives launched under your leadership, Mr. President.”
Oyu Tolgoi supports national movements and programmes initiated by President U.Khurelsukh through its  “100 million trees for the Future”, “Care Deeply” water awareness campaign, and “Made in Mongolia”  programme.
For instance, in alignment with the goals of the “Blue Gold” water sector national forum, Oyu Tolgoi has been collaborating with the Government’s Implementing Agency, the Water Authoruty of Mongolia and other sectoral organizations on its “Care Deeply” water awareness campaign, promoting responsible water consumption, reuse, and the importance of groundwater conservation to safeguard water resources.
Furthermore, Oyu Tolgoi’s “Made in Mongolia” programme aimed at replacing imported goods with locally produced alternatives along with our commitment to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, aligns with the President’s “White Gold” national programme. These initiatives focus on improving the safety, quality, and environmental standards of national suppliers while playing a major role in job creation, fostering value-added production, and introducing new technologies to Mongolia.
As part of the “One Billion Trees” national movement, Oyu Tolgoi launched the “100 million trees for the Future” program in 2022. This initiative goes beyond tree planting—it builds a foundation for long-term reforestation through workforce training, tree nursery development, and infrastructure enhancement.
Under its “Creating Prosperity. Together” strategy aligned with global megatrends, the changing world order, climate change and economic uncertainty, Oyu Tolgoi is building a world-class, safe, and sustainable copper business, generating value for its shareholders and stakeholders while making a long-term contribution to the social and economic development of our nation.
Notes for editors:
Production and Future Prospect:
With ongoing investment in essential infrastructure and mining development, production continues to accelerate: in 2024 our underground mine achieved all ramp-up milestones with construction of Panel 0 completed, including Shaft 3 and 4 ventilation, 124 drawbells blasted ahead of schedule, and first test ore on the new Conveyor to Surface achieved in October.
As the world transitions to green energy, Mongolia plays a vital role in supplying copper—an essential raw material for electric vehicles and renewable energy—supporting the global fight against climate change. At peak production, Oyu Tolgoi will produce enough copper each day to manufacture approximately 17,000 electric vehicles.
Oyu Tolgoi’s Environmental Programmes and Initiatives:
Oyu Tolgoi impacts beyond the mine, creating positive benefits across Mongolia.
To date, Oyu Tolgoi’s “100 Billion Trees for the Future” programme has already achieved over 20% of its target. Since 2022, Oyu Tolgoi has successfully planted and nurtured over 20.5 million trees or their equivalent. This includes 1.3 million trees planted for reforestation and investments equivalent to 19 million trees dedicated to developing forestry infrastructure.
Oyu Tolgoi is now in its fourth year of implementing the “Care Deeply” campaign in collaboration with The Water Authority, a government implementing agency of Mongolia, the Mongolian Hydrogeology and Geoecology Association, the Galba-Uush-Dolood Gobi River Basin Administration, and the School of Geology and Mining at the Mongolian University of Science and Technology. This initiative promotes responsible water consumption, recycling, and groundwater conservation while also raising awareness of hydrogeology as a profession and supporting the training of skilled professionals in this field.
At the “Blue Gold” 2025 National Forum, scheduled for March 21, the “Care Deeply 2025” Water Excellence Award will recognize the most impactful solutions for water conservation, sustainable use, and pollution prevention.
Oyu Tolgoi recycles an average of 87% of its industrial water usage and reuses 97% of domestic water for dust suppression and equipment washing at the mine site.
Oyu Tolgoi uses approximately three times less water per tonne of processed ore than the global average. In Q4 2024, the company used an average of 0.34 cubic meters of water per tonne of ore processed.
Since 2013, Oyu Tolgoi has paid a total of MNT193 billion in water usage fees as of the fourth quarter of 2024.
The groundwater used in the Oyu Tolgoi concentrator does not meet drinking water standards and has no negative impact on the local community’s drinking water sources.
Oyu Tolgoi remains committed to protecting and enhancing biodiversity.
As of 2024, 63% of total waste generated was recyclable or re-usable, and Oyu Tolgoi is collaborating with 17 national companies in this effort. A prime example of waste reuse is the compost production from food waste, which is used for land rehabilitation, landscaping, and tree planting at the mine site.
In line with global efforts to combat climate change, Oyu Tolgoi is actively reducing greenhouse gas emissions, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050.
Oyu Tolgoi and Rio Tinto are developing a 180 MW renewable energy project, which will meet 30% of Oyu Tolgoi’s long-term energy demand (600,000 MWh). In the long run, the goal is to source 70% of the mine’s energy from renewable sources.
Economic and Social Impact (As of the End of 2024)
As of 2023, Rio Tinto has invested a total of USD16.8 billion in Oyu Tolgoi.
Since 2010, Oyu Tolgoi has contributed USD4.8 billion in taxes, fees and other payments to the state budget.
Since 2010, Oyu Tolgoi has spent US$18.9 billion in-country in the form of salaries, payments to Mongolian suppliers, taxes and other payments to the Government of Mongolia. In Q4 2024, over 1,044 suppliers provided products and services to Oyu Tolgoi.
30 of Mongolia’s Top 100 companies are Oyu Tolgoi’s suppliers, and the company has consistently ranked among the leading enterprises contributing to the country’s development.
Every USD1 invested in Oyu Tolgoi generate USD1.43 in Mongolia’s economy. (The National University of Mongolia, 2018)
One-third of Mongolia’s GDP growth driven by investment is attributed to Oyu Tolgoi. (The University of Finance and Economics, 2024)
Through Oyu Tolgoi, Rio Tinto’s block-caving technology and 150 years of management expertise have been introduced to Mongolia. This has not only advanced the mining sector but also enhanced the planning and management capabilities of many partnering companies.
97.5% of Oyu Tolgoi’s workforce consists of Mongolian nationals, with over 20,000 employees currently working at the company. Oyu Tolgoi is playing a key role in developing world-class professionals for Mongolia’s mining sector.

Mongolia’s Central Asia Connection: Kazakhstan www.thediplomat.com

Mongolia looks to use its upgraded relationship with Kazakhstan to forge closer ties with Central Asia writ large.
In 2024, Mongolia and Kazakhstan elevated their traditional friendly relations to a new level: a strategic partnership. The upgraded relationship between Ulaanbaatar and Astana is one example of how landlocked Mongolia navigates geopolitical challenges to expand its political and economic ties with “third neighbors” – including partners in Central Asia. 
Mongolia and Kazakhstan established diplomatic relations in 1992, one year after Kazakhstan became independent, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. At the time, Mongolia was going through its democratization process while Kazakhstan was setting itself up as an independent state. Mongolia’s recognition of Kazakhstan’s independence was important in establishing modern diplomacy between the new governments of both countries. 
Kazakhstan’s long-ruling President Nursultan Nazarbayev visited Mongolia in 2008. During this trip, Nazarbayev was awarded the highest honor of Mongolia, the Order of Erdene Ochir, for his contribution to the development of Mongolia-Kazakhstan bilateral relations. 
Sixteen years later, in 2024, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev paid a historic state visit to Mongolia. During the high-level meeting between Tokayev and his counterpart, Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, the two leaders emphasized the past cooperation as a success, but also looked to opportunities to advance and diversify cooperation, particularly in the areas of trade, new technologies, and space research. 
Tokayev’s state visit to Ulaanbaatar resonated on a diplomatic level but also a cultural one. In his message to the Mongolian government and the people, Tokayev stated, “This State Visit holds special importance to me. Mongolia is an important neighboring country in our region. Our two countries share mutual goodwill, a common history, and shared intellectual and cultural values.”
Indeed, beyond the government-to-government relations, the cultural ties between Mongolia and Kazakhstan touch on issues of historical and contemporary identity.  
Historically, Mongolia has been involved the migrations of the Kazakh people and the protection of their culture. After Kazakhstan’s independence in 1991, many members of the Kazakh Mongolian population relocated to Kazakhstan. In Kazakhstan, however, the transition to independence, coupled with economic turbulence brought hardship for resettled Kazakh Mongolians. Thousands eventually returned to Mongolia. Today, Kazakh Mongolians make up 4 percent of the country’s population, mostly living in Bayan-Ulgii and neighboring provinces. 
The Kazakh Mongolian population represents a rich cultural vein in Mongolia’s ethnic diversity, which helps the country to connect with rest of the world. For example, the documentary “The Eagle Huntress” featured Aisholpan Nurgaiv, a young Kazakh Mongolian who breaks barriers by taking part in The Golden Eagle Festival, a traditionally male competition. The film – with dialogue in Kazakh – brought international acclaim and boosted interest in tourism to Mongolia. With this strong cultural representation, the Kazakh Mongolian population serves as a bridge for Ulaanbaatar to engage with countries such as Turkiye and Kazakhstan, and beyond. 
In the most recent example of cultural connections, Mongolia again took part in the World Nomad Games, the fifth iteration of which was hosted by Kazakhstan in September 2024.
The strategic partnership between Mongolia and Kazakhstan aims to build on these already-established historical and cultural ties to expand economic activities between the two countries. The forging of an economic partnership is underway as both governments aim to navigate the quickly changing geopolitical landscape. 
Currently, Kazakhstan-Mongolia trade is just over $150 million, representing a paltry 0.5 percent of Mongolia’s total trade and just 0.1 percent of Kazakhstan’s. The strategic partnership envisions boosting bilateral trade, with a goal of reaching $500 million. To that end, Mongolia and Kazakhstan signed a “Roadmap for Intensifying Trade and Economic cooperation between Mongolia and the Republic of Kazakhstan in 2025-2027” during Tokayev’s visit to Mongolia.
Beyond trade, the two governments look to foster stronger tourism ties and investment cooperation in “agriculture, mining and metallurgy, energy, transport, logistics, and finance.” Kazakhstan’s foreign policy concept 2020-2030 will play an important role in the sectors Astana prioritizes.
Given Mongolia’s ambition to expand economic relations with both traditional and nontraditional partners, Ulaanbaatar’s approach to Kazakhstan also eyes the rest of Central Asia. A strategic partnership with Kazakhstan creates opportunities for stronger bilateral mechanisms with other Central Asian countries as well as the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). The EAEU, established in 2015, is a Russia-centered grouping aimed at increasing economic cooperation. The current members are Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia; Cuba, Moldova, and Uzbekistan hold observer status within the EAEU.
The question of whether Mongolia should sign a free trade agreement (FTA) with the EAEU has sparked a heated debate among policymakers and domestic producers. Negotiations began in 2019 but entered a more serious phase in 2024. In a statement to journalists, Tokayev said that Kazakhstan “support[s] Mongolia’s aspiration to pursue a free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union.” Major businesses, however, have opposed Mongolia forging closer ties with the grouping, arguing that it will harm domestic businesses.
Forging economic partnerships with members countries on a bilateral mechanism serve Mongolia’s small economy better than establishing an EAEU-wide FTA. An inflow of tariff-free goods, vegetables, eggs, wheat, and flour from EAEU member states would impact Mongolia’s domestic production, and the little manufacturing Mongolia does. 
However, policymakers have emphasized the importance of food security, a hard lesson learned during the pandemic. Proponents of the FTA says that it will ensure consistent supplies of certain categories of food. The question of the Mongolia-EAEU FTA remains open and will be discussed during the spring parliamentary session. 
One of the geographical challenges that Mongolia and Kazakhstan face is that any trade will need to go through either China or Russia. For logistics and transportation access, Kazakhstan and Mongolia plan to build a new highway between the two countries, but will require approval and cooperation from Russia, through which the road will transit. If approved by Moscow, “The route will connect the Kazakh cities of Ust-Kamenogorsk and Ridder, as well as the Russian locality of Tuekta in the Altai Republic, leading to the Mongolian border,” Interfax reported. 
These economic initiatives – whether exploring an FTA with the EAEU or building a road between Mongolia and Kazakhstan via Russia – demonstrate Ulaanbaatar’s efforts to expand global ties and foster stronger economic relations with diverse partners. The newly established strategic partnership with Kazakhstan will be an important part of Ulaanbaatar’s approach to Central Asia more broadly. 
The materialization of these ideas, however, is another question that depends on many moving variables, including geopolitical shifts and government decisions. Connecting Mongolia and Kazakhstan may offer economic benefits to both countries but also touches on transnational issues that involve Russia and China as well.

Concern in Mongolia After Police Raid on Independent News Outlet www.thediplomat.com

Eight employees for Noorog Creative Studio were detained, allegedly without due process, on murky and shifting charges.
What started as an ordinary game night for young employees of a rising media company turned into a shocking police raid – sparking a nationwide outcry for press freedom in Mongolia.
On the night of March 17, eight employees of Noorog Creative Studio, a digital media outlet known for its bold investigative work, were abruptly detained by the Cyber Crime Department. The journalists, aged 20–27, were taken into custody under Article 19.9.1 of the Criminal Law Act for allegedly “undermining national unity” – a charge that has never before led to a criminal indictment since the law’s enactment in 2015. The penalty is five to 12 years imprisonment.
The employees were interrogated for nearly nine hours overnight, from 9:50 p.m. to 6:30 a.m., with some reportedly questioned without legal representation. Their devices were confiscated upon arrest, and it remains unclear whether they were given the right to communicate with legal counsel. The police also raided Noorog’s office, seizing computers and hard drives.
According to local media reports, the charges stem from accusations of “spreading false information” on the outlet’s Facebook page. As the UB Post summarized, “This investigation was reportedly initiated based on a complaint submitted via a fake address in a chat message, which claimed that Noorog’s content had caused individuals to consider suicide.”
Concerningly, the State Prosecutor’s Office said that it had rejected a proposal to arrest the Noorog journalists immediately, because “the legal grounds for detention had not been established.”
The timing of the operation has raised serious concerns, as it comes just weeks after the outlet announced its upcoming documentary, “18 Days.” The film, set for release in June, follows six citizens through Mongolia’s 2024 parliamentary election campaign, aiming to expose the strategies and tactics used to sway voters.
By  Uranbileg Tumurkhuyag

Realization after 9 elections www.ubpost.mn

D.Amarbayasgalan met with Mongolian researchers in Oxford www.news.mn

Chairman of the State Great Hural, D.Amarbayasgalan, is currently an official visit to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland at the invitation of the Right Honourable Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons.
The official visit, scheduled from March 18 to 23, 2025, marks the first-ever visit at the level of Mongolia’s parliamentary chairman to the UK.
As Mongolia’s third neighbor and a key European partner, the UK holds significant strategic importance in diplomatic and economic relations. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations, expand economic, energy, and education sector cooperation, and establish a legal framework for enhanced collaboration. It will also promote mutual understanding, increase high-level dialogue, and bolster inter-parliamentary ties between the two nations.
Today, Chairman of the State Great Hural (Parliament) of Mongolia, D.Amarbayasgalan, met with Mongolian researchers who is participating in the 7th International Conference on the Livelihoods of People Living in the Gobi Desert, organized by the School of Geography and the Environment at Oxford University. Also he met with William Hague, Chancellor of the University of Oxford, and Professor Giles Wiggs, Director of the School of Geography and the Environment. They exchanged views on Mongolia’s educational goals, ongoing programs, and areas of potential future research collaboration.
Yesterday, Chairman of the State Great Hural D.Amarbayasgalan was acquainted with activities of Satellite Application Catapult, where a Mongolian citizen B.Maral works as a senior advisor at this world-leading technology and innovation company.

Tur-Od Lkhagvajav: The Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Upholds Trust in Its Partnerships www.montsame.mn

 The MONTSAME National News Agency spoke with the President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI) Mr. Tur-Od Lkhagvajav.
Congratulations on your appointment as the President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry. When was the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry established, and how have the Chamber's operations evolved over time?
The Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry was founded in 1960 under the Ministry of Trade of the Mongolian People’s Republic to manage foreign trade with capitalist or Western countries at that time. Today, our Chamber operates within the confines of the Law on Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which was passed by the State Great Khural of Mongolia in 1995.
The Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry supports the country's economic development by fostering a favorable business environment, facilitating trade, economic, scientific, and technical cooperation between Mongolian and international entities, and assisting businesses in exporting domestically produced goods and products. The Chamber is a public legal entity. The MNCCI is a nationwide non-governmental organization with voluntary membership. Currently, it has over 6,400 members, of which 2,700 are located in Ulaanbaatar city and 3,700 in rural areas of Mongolia.
We are also delegated with some governmental tasks, such as issuing certificates of origin for national products, providing accreditation, and granting patents for intellectual property and copyrights. Our one significant initiative is the issuance of Force Majeure Certificates through the National Accreditation Center of Mongolia, which I would like to specifically mention, as it was quite instrumental during unforeseen events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. So, businesses can collaborate based on mutual trust, and the Chamber itself upholds this principle by fostering trust among its member organizations and partners. 
You just mentioned that the MNCCI has over 6,400 members. Looking at the distribution by sector, which sector dominates the Chamber’s membership? Based on this, we might get a general picture of which sectors play a major role in our country’s economy.
Today, over 90 thousand entities and entrepreneurs operate in Mongolia. The Chamber's membership includes both large holdings and smaller entities. Small and medium-sized enterprises are also among our members. Over the past 4–5 years, we have actively supported startups, particularly those led by young people and women entrepreneurs. State-owned and locally owned enterprises, such as Erdenet Mining Corporation SOE, Mongolrostsvetmet SOE, and Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC, which collectively account for more than 90 percent of Mongolia’s GDP, are proud members of our Chamber. Additionally, MNCCI member organizations provide employment for over one million people.
The mining and extractive industry plays a pivotal role in our country's government budget. Therefore, the Chamber supports transparency in the mining sector. We have launched programs and projects to improve corporate governance and uphold business ethics in mining companies, especially focusing on state-owned and locally owned enterprises. 
Currently, 22 policy councils operate under the MNCCI. In 2025, we established the Regional Development Policy Council. The Chamber also has affiliated local chambers in all 21 aimags of Mongolia. To drive regional development forward, we have restructured our local chambers into seven regions with designated plans and budgets for them. Starting this year, the Chamber and the Government of Mongolia will jointly host the Regional Development Forum and implement various multilateral initiatives.
Following the 2024 Parliamentary Elections of Mongolia, the Government of Mongolia has announced its Action Program. What legislative proposals is the Chamber developing, and what innovative regulations are expected to be introduced?
The Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry will partner with the Government of Mongolia under Mongolia's long-term development policy "Vision-2050," the New Revival Policy, and the Government's 2024-2028 Action Program, focusing on three main areas: first, the transition to a green economy; second, the shift towards artificial intelligence and advanced technologies; and third, the transformation of the labor force and labor market.
We are currently working on amending certain laws that directly impact the business environment in Mongolia. One of the most pressing challenges businesses face is the tax environment. The MNCCI conducts a Business Environment Survey among its member organizations every two years. The 2023 survey concluded that "The tax environment is not always favorable for businesses." In response, we are collaborating with the Working Group established by the State Great Khural of Mongolia to organize a series of discussions and develop provisions to be reflected in these laws. In addition, we are working on draft laws related to business and finance, such as the Law on Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Law on Energy Reform, the Law on Increasing Productivity and Improving Governance of State-Owned and Locally Owned Enterprises, the Law on Labor Force Migration, the Law on Permits, and the Law on Commerce.
Mongolia does attract foreign investors. How friendly is our country to foreign investors?
The Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry has restructured its organizational framework, reducing the number of departments from 11 to three main departments to enhance efficiency. The Trade Policy Department aims at supporting foreign trade, with a dedicated center for promoting exports and imports. The Industrial Policy Department will focus on fostering industrial development, particularly the establishment of industrial parks, in alignment with the Government's objectives. The Investment Policy Department will closely cooperate with the Ministry of Economy and Development of Mongolia and the Investment and Trade Agency of Mongolia to protect the interests of domestic and foreign investors, including the development of the draft Law on Investment to create a more favorable legal environment for investors.
What are the most common concerns raised by foreign investors? What mechanisms does Mongolia use to resolve business disputes?
There are several foreign-invested Mongolian companies registered with the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry. One of the main concerns of foreign investors is the need for political stability. With the formation of a Coalition Government following the 2024 Parliamentary Elections, it is expected that Government operations will continue steadily in the coming years. Among the most well-known initiatives are the 14 mega projects of the Government of Mongolia, for which the MNCCI is working hard to attract foreign investment and establish partnerships.
Another issue raised by foreign investors is the stability of the legal environment. We will submit a set of proposals and recommendations for the draft Law on Investment. Our goal is to have the Parliament of Mongolia discuss and approve the law that creates a favorable environment for foreign and domestic investors, ensuring its validity for at least 15-20 years and possibly even beyond 30 years without amendments.
Foreign investors also bring up the issue of dispute resolution with the MNCCI. Similar to the chambers of other countries, our Chamber operates the Mongolian International Arbitration Center. This Center is staffed by legal experts specializing in economics, finance, banking, and investment, ensuring that disputes are resolved fairly and impartially.
The world is increasingly focusing on sustainable development and green economy. What regulations do our business laws provide for incentives for foreign investors? What improvements could be made in the legal framework in this area?
The MNCCI has long supported the production of environmentally friendly products from the very beginning. The Chamber is a leader in driving the green transition. Annually, the MNCCI presents the "Greenpreneur" Award to Mongolian entrepreneurs and foreign nationals for their contributions to the development of green businesses. Starting this year, businesses contributing to the green economy will benefit from cuts in corporate income taxes. Another noteworthy initiative is the collaboration between the MNCCI and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change of Mongolia to establish a special fund. This fund has already been introduced to the Chamber's member organizations and aims at accumulating MNT 1 trillion every year to support the green transition.
The Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry issues certificates of origin for export goods and products. What are the advantages of this certificate? How many types of goods are currently certified?
One important service that the MNCCI provides to entities and businesses is the issuance of certificates of origin. In 2024, the Chamber issued 14,575 certificates, directly supporting exports. Mongolia has the right to supply over 7,500 products to the European Union under preferential tariffs. Experts from relevant ministries and agencies in Mongolia and Japan held seven rounds of negotiations for three years, starting 2012, and established a Free Trade Agreement. Furthermore, Mongolia is working on establishing similar agreements with the Eurasian Economic Union and South Korea. A notable opportunity for Mongolia arose in 2019 when it joined the Asia-Pacific Free Trade Agreement, which came into effect in 2021.
Which countries and international organizations does the MNCCI cooperate with? How is the Chamber expanding its foreign relations and cooperation?
The MNCCI collaborates with trade and industrial chambers and trade promotion organizations of over 160 countries. It has signed memoranda of understanding with approximately 130 organizations of more than 40 countries. The Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry is a member of several prestigious international organizations, including the International Chamber of Commerce-World Chambers Federation (ICC WCF), the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), the Asia Trade Promotion Forum (ATPF), the Asia-Pacific Trade Agreement Chamber of Commerce and Industry (APTA CCI), and the Greater Tumen Initiative (GTI), all of which facilitate close cooperation. This allows the MNCCI to engage in regional and international business networks, stay informed about economic, trade, and business trends, share information with entrepreneurs, and promote Mongolia's business environment at international fora. It also provides opportunities to voice the opinions of business owners, participate in seminars and training sessions, and foster collaboration. Also, the MNCCI works closely with neighboring countries on joint projects, exhibitions, trade fairs, and other initiatives.
Since the beginning of 2025, the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry has organized two important business forums in Türkiye and Uzbekistan. How fruitful have the business forums and business trips to foreign countries been?
The frequency of high-level visits by the Head of State and government leaders of Mongolia has notably increased in recent years. A key part of any such visit is the business delegation. During these visits, the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in cooperation with the host country's national chamber, organizes a Business Forum. During the State Visit of President of Mongolia to the Republic of Türkiye on January 15-19, 2025, we organized the Mongolia-Türkiye Business Forum. Approximately 100 business representatives accompanied the President of Mongolia. The Mongolia-Türkiye Business Forum and B2B meetings were successfully held in Ankara, the capital city of Türkiye, and Istanbul, the financial hub of Türkiye. The B2B meetings are a crucial event where business people of the two countries meet face-to-face, discuss potential collaborations, and establish partnerships. In Türkiye, Mongolian enterprises and companies conducted over 10 negotiations, resulting in agreements worth more than MNT 30 billion. This highlights the importance of business forums and B2B meetings organized by the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry in other countries.
The MNCCI also signed a Cooperation Agreement with the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Türkiye, which represents over 2 million businesses and organizations. This Agreement aims to enhance exports and imports between the two countries, balance foreign trade, implement joint projects and programs, and provide Mongolian manufacturers access to the Turkish market and, eventually, through Türkiye, to other countries' markets. Additionally, we have agreed to collaborate with the Foreign Economic Relations Board under the Ministry of Trade of Türkiye, with the goal of elevating bilateral relations and cooperation between the two countries. This Agreement can be seen as a roadmap for enhancing economic ties with third neighbors. 
The business forum and B2B meetings were held in Tashkent, the capital city of the Republic of Uzbekistan, during the first Meeting of the Mongolia-Uzbekistan Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economy, Science, and Technology Cooperation. A delegation of over 50 business people of Mongolia visited Uzbekistan. Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia Amarsaikhan Sainbuyan paid an official visit to Uzbekistan as the Chairman of the Mongolian party to the Commission.
Around 200 business representatives from Mongolia and Uzbekistan participated in the business forum and B2B meetings. Uzbekistan is increasingly attracting global attention of investors and business people. Its economy is becoming more open, and its population is growing rapidly. Mongolian companies and entrepreneurs have started showing interest in the Uzbek market too.
To give you an example, Mongol Basalt JSC of Mongolia is building a factory in Tashkent, while the Tavan Bogd Group is opening a branch of NURA Center in Uzbekistan. "Voyage Mongolia" has established a representative office and is now selling water in Uzbekistan. Several Mongolian food companies are actively working on importing fruits, berries, and other food products from Uzbekistan. Many Mongolian companies have expressed their intention to explore this new market further and are planning to return to Uzbekistan. In such ways, we are working to connect our member companies with international markets, collaborate with the Government to create a favorable legal environment, raise awareness, and open up wider business opportunities.
Where can foreign entrepreneurs find information and advice on Mongolia's market, including business and trade opportunities, as well as the tax environment? How accessible are these services?
As I mentioned earlier, the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry supports foreign investors and businesses in investing, trading, and developing economic relations with Mongolia. All this information can be found on our website www.mongolchamber.mn. At the same time, our Chamber has established an Institute for Economic and Market Research. The research center will conduct policy-level research. In particular, it intends to provide domestic market information to foreign investors and exporters and importers, and on the other hand, to distribute information on the markets of other countries to domestic producers and importers.
What goals are you planning to accomplish in the near future?
This year marks the 65th anniversary of the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry. As part of the anniversary celebrations, revising the Law on Chamber of Commerce and Industry has become our priority. The MNCCI is actively involved in drafting several laws aimed at improving the business legal environment and is working towards achieving concrete results. Additionally, the Chamber is focusing on strengthening its branches in rural areas to provide support and training for local businesses. We will also organize business forums during the State Visits of President of Mongolia Khurelsukh Ukhnaa to Poland and the Czech Republic, scheduled for March 2025. Preparations for these forums are underway. Additionally, we are preparing for successful participation in both domestic and international exhibitions, trade fairs, and expos.
This year, the World Expo 2025 will be held in Osaka, Japan, under the theme "Designing a Future Society for Our Lives." The Expo aligns with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals for 2030 and expresses a commitment to raising awareness and driving action towards eliminating hunger and poverty, promoting social equality, resolving ecological challenges, and mobilizing citizens globally to contribute to achieving these goals. As the largest international event, the Expo sees the participation of over 170 countries and is held every five years. Preparations are underway to involve Mongolian businesses and companies, particularly members of the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry in this prestigious event. The Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry is gearing up for an exciting year ahead, celebrating its 65th anniversary with a packed calendar of events, including domestic and international forums, discussions, exhibitions, trade fairs, and policy advocacy initiatives.

Official Visit of Chairman of the State Great Khural of Mongolia to the United Kingdom Begins www.montsame.mn

Chairman of the State Great Khural of Mongolia Amarbayasgalan Dashzegve is paying an official visit to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland on March 18-23, 2025. 
Chairman of the State Great Khural of Mongolia Amarbayasgalan Dashzegve held an official meeting with Speaker of the House of Commons of the United Kingdom the Right Honorable Sir Lindsay Hoyle at the Palace of Westminster on March 19, 2025. During the official meeting, the two sides expressed satisfaction with the active development of bilateral relations and cooperation across all sectors in recent years and emphasized the strengthening of mutual understanding. Additionally, the two sides exchanged in-depth views on expanding cooperation between the legislative bodies of the two countries, particularly enhancing relations between the Secretariats and Parliamentary Friendship groups. 
At the meeting, Speaker Amarbayasgalan introduced the objectives set by the newly formed State Great Khural of Mongolia, the “Three Perfections” policy aimed at strengthening parliamentary governance, as well as the initiatives and legal reforms being implemented to develop Mongolia’s economy, boost trade, and increase investment. Speaker of the House of Commons, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, expressed gratitude for accepting his invitation and for undertaking the first official visit of a Chairman of the State Great Khural of Mongolia to the United Kingdom. Sir Lindsay Hoyle further expressed confidence that this official visit would contribute to strengthening cooperation between the legislative bodies of the two countries.
Following the meeting, Speaker Amarbayasgalan signed the Book of Honored Guests of the House of Commons of the United Kingdom.