FLSmidth (FLS) is a global leader in mining technology, providing equipment, services, and digital solutions that enhance productivity, efficiency, and sustainability. In Mongolia, the company collaborates closely with local mining operators and authorities to address the unique challenges of the region.
In this interview, Mikko Keto, CEO of FLSmidth, shares insights on how the company maintains global standards while tailoring solutions to Mongolia's mining sector, leverages digital technologies, fosters operational efficiency, promotes sustainability, and supports local development.
O.Dulguun
How do you assess the current state of the global mining sector, particularly in the Central Asian market, and what potential risks and opportunities do you foresee over the next decade, along with possible strategies to address them?
Central Asia possesses substantial mineral resources, A presenting both significant and challenges. key opportunities opportunity arises from the manner in which governments manage permitting and licensing processes. Given that mining is a capital- intensive sector, investors are particularly attracted to jurisdictions with clear, stable, and predictable legal and regulatory frameworks. Efficient and transparent permitting can accelerate investment, draw international mining companies, and support sustainable development initiatives.
Conversely, delays in licensing or policy uncertainty constitute major risks, potentially slowing project implementation and deterring investment. Overall, the combination of abundant mineral resources, openness to international participation, and clear, consistent government policies positions Central Asia as a highly attractive region for mining over the next five to ten years.
How does FLS utilize advanced technologies to enhance productivity and safety in Mongolian mining operations?
FLS Mongolia collaborates closely with the company's global technical teams in Europe and the United States to ensure that all equipment, processes, and safety standards comply with international benchmarks. Simultaneously, solutions are localized to address Mongolia's specific geological conditions, operational characteristics, and the requirements of individual mining companies.
Through on-site engagement with clients, tailored training programs, and the transfer of international best practices, FLS effectively translates its global expertise into the Mongolian context. This approach enables mining operations in Mongolia to maintain high reliability, operational efficiency, and adherence to world-class safety standards.
How does FLS maintain compliance with international mining standards while tailoring its technological solutions to the specific geological, operational, and regulatory conditions of the Mongolian mining industry?
We actively employ artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced sensor technologies to continuously monitor equipment performance. Various sensors and high-resolution cameras are installed on mills and flotation systems to capture detailed imagery of equipment surfaces and operational patterns.
Al analyzes these images using extensive databases, enabling the timely detection of anomalies and deviations from normal operation. 
By integrating Al with sensor data, FLS ensures continuous equipment monitoring, which supports operational optimization, enhances productivity, and improves safety in mining operations.
Can you provide examples of how FLS innovations have enhanced operational efficiency for clients in Mongolia?
In milling operations, we use advanced sensor technologies equipment performance, reduce energy to optimize consumption, and minimize wear. Many of these technologies are specifically designed to support clients in achieving more efficient and sustainable operations.
A notable example is the implementation of FLS's High Pressure Grinding Rolls (HPGR Pro) technology by Erdenet Mining Corporation. HPGR Pro represents one of the most energy- efficient methods for reducing ore size within a crushing and screening circuit. Its adoption constitutes a significant advancement in operational efficiency and marks a technological milestone for the Mongolian mining industry.
How does your company balance short-term project goals with its long-term sustainability and environmental commitments?
When assessing the environmental impact of our processing plants, Our company focuses on several key areas.
First, technologies are developed to minimize electricity and energy consumption. Second, water efficiency is prioritized by recycling up to 90% of process water, limiting the use of fresh water to only 10% within the circuit. Third, recovery processes are optimized to maximize the extraction of valuable minerals, as higher recovery reduces the amount of ore required to produce the same output.
By integrating these strategies, FLS is able to achieve short-term operational goals while simultaneously advancing long-term sustainability objectives and minimizing the environmental footprint of its operations.
How does FLS plan to maintain its competitive position in Mongolia amid the rapid evolution of global mining technologies?
We see ourselves as a leader in mining technologies and solutions. To stay competitive, it's not enough to lead in technology-we also need to offer products that are cost-effective for our clients. Finding the right balance between providing cutting-edge technologies ensuring economic efficiency is something we focus on constantly. and
To achieve this, we continuously refine our supply chain and production processes. This allows us to deliver high-quality, innovative solutions that meet both performance expectations and cost considerations for the Mongolian mining sector.
What lessons has FLS learned from other countries that can be applied to Mongolia's mining sector?
A key lesson derived from international experience is the importance of investing in new yet proven technologies. For instance, High Pressure Grinding Rolls (HPGR) have been successfully implemented in multiple countries, but remain relatively novel in Mongolia.
By leveraging experiences from regions such as South America, Chile, Peru, and Kazakhstan, FLS is able to introduce tested and reliable solutions to Mongolian mining operations. This approach allows clients to adopt new technologies with minimal risk, which is particularly important given that mining companies often exhibit conservative adoption patterns and prefer solutions that have been validated in other markets rather than serving as early adopters or test cases.
How does collaboration with local governments and trilateral partnerships influence FLS's long-term success in Mongolia?
Collaboration with local governments and communities is critical to FLS's long- term success. Our company prioritizes the development of local talent by offering training and upskilling opportunities for existing employees, including international rotation programs that enable staff to gain experience in other operational contexts.
FLS also supports educational institutions that prepare technical professionals, thereby ensuring a sustainable pipeline of skilled personnel.
Close cooperation with government authorities ensures that the benefits of mining operations are tangible and accessible to local communities. Given the significant economic impact of mining, active engagement with local stakeholders is essential to promote sustainable development and to enable mining operations to function responsibly and efficiently.
In what ways is FLS preparing for future challenges, such as water scarcity or changing commodity markets?
We are continuously advancing our technologies to prepare for future challenges. Over the years, our company has evolved into an integrated provider of technology, products, and services, and maintaining leadership in these areas remains a top priority.
By working closely with our clients, we help them optimize their operations and develop effective strategies to address challenges such as resource scarcity or fluctuations in commodity markets. Our overarching goal is to remain a leading technology provider in the global mining sector, ensuring that both we and our clients are fully equipped to navigate whatever the future may hold.
How does FLS measure the impact of its sustainable initiatives on both process performance and local communities?
One of the key advantages in our approach is that sustainability and economic performance go hand in hand, particularly in process plants. Reducing power consumption not only enhances sustainability but also lowers operating costs.
Similarly, minimizing water use benefits both the environment and local communities by conserving fresh water. Unlike other areas in mining, where certain sustainability measures might be costly to implement, in process plants these initiatives improve operational efficiency while supporting sustainable outcomes.
This alignment allows us to achieve both economic and environmental goals simultaneously, and demonstrating that responsible operations can also be economically advantageous.

Published Date:2025-12-26