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BCM HIGHLIGHT
BCM NEWSWIRE SURVEY
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ECONOMY
TRADE TURNOVER UP 61 PCT IN JAN Y/Y, EXPORTS DOWN 23 PCT M/M
Mongolia traded with 107 countries worldwide in January 2023, and the total trade turnover reached USD 1.8 billion, of which exports were USD 1.1 billion and imports were USD 688.0 million.
The total foreign trade turnover increased by USD 669.5 (61.1%) million, where exports increased by USD 538.1 (99.7%) million and imports increased by USD 131.5 (23.6%) million compared to the same period of the previous year. In January 2023, exports decreased by USD 318.0 (22.8%) million, and imports decreased by USD 145.1 (17.4%) million compared to the previous month. The foreign trade balance was in surplus of USD 389.7 million in January 2023, which increased by USD 406.6 million compared to the same period of the previous year, while it decreased by USD 172.9 million from the previous month. Trade with China reached USD 1.2 billion in January 2023, accounting 66.8% of the total trade turnover.
Source: Montsame
BALANCE OF PAYMENTS IN DEFICIT OF USD 2.9 BLN, UP 36 PCT Y/Y
According to the National Statistics Office, the current account balance of payment was in deficit of USD 2.9 billion in 2022 and increased by USD 767.3 (36.4%) million compared to the previous year.
This deficit in the current account was mainly due to increase in deficit of USD 263.2 million in trade in goods and increase in deficit of USD 661.6 million in the trade in service deficit compared to the previous year. In December 2022, the current account was in deficit of USD 195.3 million and increased by USD 189.0 million from the previous month.
In 2022, by the preliminary results, credit of trade in services reached USD 1.1 billion, increased by USD 265.3 million, and debit of service trade reached USD 3.4 billion, increased by USD 926.9 million compared to the previous year. The trade in service balance deficit reached USD 2.3 billion and increased by USD 661.6 million compared to the previous year.
Source: Montsame
See also:
MONGOLIA BUILDS ABOUT 900-KM OF RAILWAYS IN 2022
Mongolia has built around 900-km railway lines in 2022, local media reported on Saturday, citing the country's Ministry of Road and Transport Development.
"A total of 876.4 km of new railways, namely Zuunbayan-Khangi railway, Tavantolgoi-Zuunbayan railway and Tavantolgoi-Gashuunsukhait railway were built and put into operation last year," the ministry said in a statement.
Mongolian authorities believe that these strategic railways will provide high efficiency to the Asian country's economy and make a great contribution to the improvement of people's life and the development of the country.
Currently, the landlocked country's railways in service have stretched to a total length of 2,965 km, according to the ministry.
Source: Xinhua
"SUSTAINABLE CASHMERE OF MONGOLIA PGI" - EUROPEAN CERTIFICATION PROCESS STARTED
The European Union Commission has officially confirmed to the Mongolian National Federation of Pasture User Groups (MNPUGs) the official opening of the EUROPEAN PROTECTED GEOGRAPHIC INDICATION OF ORIGIN (PGI/IGP) CERTIFICATION process of the “SUSTAINABLE CASHMERE” produced in Mongolia.
MNFPUGs today has become the herders’ largest collective organization in Mongolia, whose 1.754 associated PUGs of herders and cooperatives and its 93.000+ member herder families (equivalent to 1/3 of the total Mongolian population and 70% of the rural population), produce about 28% of the worldwide cashmere fibre.
MNFPUG’s new “business model” for a “GI certified” and fully traceable value chain has won Milan EXPO 2015 award as the best project for a Sustainable and Community driven initiative for Natural Resource management in the world. SDC’s Green Gold’s “Responsible Nomads” (RN) Code of Best Herding Practices, following intense work with the MoFALI, has been recognized as the Mongolian Government’s only National Standard for Sustainable Herding and Rangeland Management.
Source: Montsame
FLIGHTS TO 105 DESTINATIONS IN 50 COUNTRIES TO BE MADE THIS YEAR
The Government of Mongolia announced 2023-2025 as the year of “Welcome to Mongolia”. In 2023, an air travel agreement will be signed with 50 countries, and the possibility of 105 destinations will be created.
As a result of the visit of L.Oyun-Erdene, the Prime Minister of Mongolia, to the Republic of Korea this year, the frequency of flights between Korea and Mongolia increased from 44 to 80 flights per week. In other words, 11 flights per day are available. Following amendments have also been made.
- Frequency of flights to Japan will increase from 26 per week to 62
- Frequency of flights to Thailand will increase from 10 per week to 30
- Frequency of flights to Turkey will increase from 6 per week to 34
- Frequency of flights to Beijing will be 42 flights per week
- An air communication agreement with Qatar and Kuwait has been granted.
Source: GoGo News
GASHUUN SUKHAIT CHECKPOINT TO BECOME INTERNATIONAL PORT
During the discussion on “Electronic Trading of Export Coal” that was held on February 27, The Minister of Mongolia and the Chairman of the National Committee for Port Revitalization Kh. Bulgantuya said, “The coal export is carried out by four types of terminals: railway, road transport, container, and automatic AGV transport.” She also informed that the export coal sold during the e-auction should be delivered through the container terminal, one of the four gateways designated for electronic trading.
The Chairman of the Committee continued, “The coal importers and transporters proposed to make Gashuunsukhait port, which handles 50-60 percent of coal exports, as an international port that operates 24/7. We have officially put forward this proposal to the Chinese side and received a response to settle the necessary infrastructure and investments from our side. Both sides agreed on bringing the port up to the international standards.”
Source: Montsame
E-PASSPORTS TO BE AVAILABLE IN MARCH
Mongolia joined the ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) as the 82nd member country in 2021. As a result, Mongolians have become able to use electronic foreign passports with high confidentiality in accordance with international standards.
E-passport, which contains an electronic chip, holds the same information on the passport's data page: the holder's name, date of birth, and other biographic information, and helps to securely identify the traveler, provide protection against identity theft, protect privacy, and reduce fraud. The automatic e-passport reader machine facilitates the fast clearance of travelers at immigration checks.
Starting from March 1st, people can apply for either the new edition of the ordinary national passport or an e-passport.
In Mongolia, the first reader machine has been installed at "Chinggis Khaan Airport."
Source: Montsame
DRY PORTS TO BE BUILT IN MONGOLIA
The Government of Mongolia and the Ministry of Road and Transport Development have been paying attention to expanding the capacity and operation of the transport and logistics sector. Last year, AH 4a – a road corridor connecting Xinjiang of the PRC to the Russian Federation via the Yarant /Ulaanbaishint/ Tsagaanuur road was opened for transportation. In addition, the national railway network has been expanding and the projects for Artssuuri-Shiveekhuren western railway and Ereentsav-Bichigt eastern railway have been started.
Mongolia has joined the Asian Highway Network, Trans-Asian Railway Network, and Intergovernmental Agreement on Dry Ports, initiated by the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), and has been actively working toward common commitments. Minister of Road and Transport Development S. Byambatsogt met with the Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Secretary of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana and agreed to cooperate on projects and programs to build dry ports.
Source: Montsame
MORTGAGE LOANS OF MNT 79.3 BILLION DISBURSED TO 752 BORROWERS IN 2023
Since the beginning of this year, the financing of mortgage loans has continued normally, and a total of 752 borrowers have received mortgage loans of MNT 79.3 billion.
According to the report of the Ministry of Construction and Urban Development, a cooperation with the Bank of Mongolia, commercial banks, and Credit guarantee fund of Mongolia is being intensified within the framework of finalizing the draft of the General Agreement related to the interest and down payment discounts for mortgage loan to be disbursed in rural area.
Source: GoGo News
NEW OPEN SKIES AGREEMENT TO INCREASE TRADE AND TOURISM OPPORTUNITIES WITH UNITED STATES
The United States and Mongolia have taken a major step towards establishing non-stop flights between the two countries with the signing of an Open Skies Agreement. The agreement, which was signed on January 24th in Washington D.C., is the first bilateral agreement in the aviation industry between the two countries.
The agreement is a liberal one, allowing air carriers to share flight numbers, as well as the capacity and frequency of flights to any destination, in line with the US "Open Skies" policy.
The Open Skies Agreement is expected to improve the economic and trade circulation between the two countries, creating new opportunities for air carriers and tourism companies.
However, while the agreement marks real progress, there is still work to be done before flights can begin. The two countries must complete internal procedures and Mongolia must be certified in technical, safety, and security areas before flights can start.
Source: Mongolia Weekly
OXFORD: MITIGATING THE IMPACT OF MINING IN MONGOLIA
Mongolia’s vast territory, ranging from the Gobi Desert in the south to the mountainous Taiga, is home to nomadic pastoralists who depend on mobile herding of Bactrian camels, yak, goat, sheep and horses to provide them with food, goods, and income. The area also supports widespread mining activities and licenses and taxes generated from these are an important source of government revenue.
But the social impact of mining is significant and can result in forced displacement and loss of income, without adequate compensation. Mining operations can also affect pastoralists’ mental and physical health and their social and spiritual well-being.
Whilst large international companies are usually held to the high environmental and social impact standards expected by donors such as the World Bank’s International Finance Corporation, smaller national companies need comply only with the more basic environmental legal standards set by the Mongolian government.
Source: University of Oxford
MONGOLIAN WOMEN GRAB THEIR SLICE OF THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY - EDITORIAL
At a small organic beauty workshop, Tuuvee Dash lays out skin care products — hand and body soaps, moisturizing creams, shampoos and lip balms — all infused with ingredients native to the southern Gobi region of Mongolia: camel milk, sheep’s tail oil, herbs such as thyme, nettle and tsulkhir, a plant with edible seeds that grows in sandy soil. Many of these have long been used by Mongolians as traditional remedies for a vast array of conditions. Now, they are being introduced to the world by a new generation of Mongolian businesswomen.
A beautician by training, Tuuvee opened a yoga center in 2018. When the coronavirus pandemic forced it to shut down, she decided to throw herself into producing cosmetics that capitalized on Mongolia’s natural abundance.
Organic skin care is a relatively new sector for Mongolia: The country only produced a single type of soap until 1990, when it transitioned to a free market economy.
Source: Global Press Journal
POLITICS
MONGOLIA TO HOST HIGH-LEVEL FORUM ON CLEAN AIR
The High-Level Forum on Clean Air will be co-organized by the Minister of Environment and Tourism of Mongolia, the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific /UNESCAP/, and the United Nations Environment Programme on March 2 and 3 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
The forum will be attended by high-level representatives from 53 countries, such as the USA, the Republic of India, the UK, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Singapore, Russia, Turkey, China, and New Zealand, which are members of the UNESCAP, as well as over 200 representatives of international research and development organizations.
During the form, events and discussions will be held to clarify the mechanism of action on regional air pollution issues, share the best practices, introduce the methodologies for capacity building and advanced technologies, and strengthen cooperation.
This forum is one of the activities in preparation for the 17th conference of the parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Desertification (COP 17), which will be held in Mongolia in 2026.
Source: Montsame
Click here for details
“TOKYO DECLARATION 2023” ISSUED
"G-NETS or Global City Network for Sustainability" Forum of Mayors was held in Tokyo, Japan. The leaders of the city shared their experiences and discussed overcoming the problems and challenges facing the world, humanity and cities, and to create a fair and stable society together in the future. Opening a new way for further cooperation, the participants issued a joint statement "Tokyo Declaration 2023" with 18 clauses.
The declaration includes clauses for creating more accessible and safer cities and building sustainable and fair societies. For example, ensuring gender equality and creating a friendly environment for people with disabilities were emphasized. Moreover, the declaration includes initiatives for cities to join to help reduce the damage caused by natural disasters, such as earthquakes in Turkey and Syria.
Mayor of Tokyo, Japan, Yuriko Koike:
-Climate change, air, water, soil pollution and waste are common problems we face. "G-NETS" forum was organized with the participation of representatives of more than 30 cities from five continents…
Source: Mayor's Office
See also: City leaders held discussion and shared experiences
G-NETS or Forum of Mayors for Sustainable Development takes place
Experience of “Tokyo Metro” JSC studied
Two Mongolian companies participating in the “City-Tech.Tokyo 2023” exhibition
JICA to support the training of personnel in the field of public-private partnership
Mongolia-Japan to Cooperate on Professional Training and Information Technology
MONGOLIA AND SOUTH KOREA EMPHASIZE DEEPER ECONOMIC TIES
Mongolian Prime Minister Oyun-Erdene Luvsannamsrai paid a four-day working visit to South Korea from February 14-18. Since establishing a strategic partnerships in 2021, Ulaanbaatar and Seoul have made efforts to bolster economic relations, particularly in mineral extraction, tourism, and urban development.
Oyun-Erdene’s visit to Seoul marked the first time in 12 years that a Mongolian prime minister had visited South Korea. During the meetings of the heads of government, Han highlighted the significance of Mongolia-South Korea bilateral relations within Seoul’s Indo-Pacific Strategy.
For his part, Oyun-Erdene emphasized the importance of South Korea as both a trading partner and a gateway through which landlocked Mongolia could send its goods farther abroad. “We see South Korea as one of our customers, and the newly signed agreement between our two countries will help Mongolia trade globally through seaports such as Busan,” he told Reuters.
Source: The Diplomat
See also: Outcomes of the Prime Minister’s Official Visit Discussed
JOINT STATEMENT ON ADVANCING THE U.S.-MONGOLIA ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP
The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and Mongolia on the occasion of the 4th U.S.-Mongolia Economic Policy Dialogue.
Begin Text:
To strengthen further the U.S.-Mongolia Strategic Partnership and economic relationship, representatives of Mongolia and the United States held the 4th bilateral Economic Policy Dialogue on February 2, 2023, in Washington, D.C. During the meeting, the two nations discussed joint responses to economic challenges, explored opportunities to deepen bilateral trade and investment, and decided to pursue cooperation in key areas, including critical minerals, clean energy, and the digital economy.
U.S. Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Economic and Business Affairs Whitney Baird and State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia Ankhbayar Nyamdorj co-chaired the dialogue. U.S. participants included representatives from the Department of State, National Security Council, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)…
Source: U.S. Department of State
CHAIRMAN OF STATE GREAT KHURAL TO PAY OFFICIAL VISIT TO JAPAN
Speaker of Parliament G. Zandanshatar will pay an Official Visit to Japan at the invitation of the President of the House of Councilors of the National Diet of Japan Mr. Otsuji Hidehisa between March 1-5, 2023.
The aim of this visit is to deepen the relations of “Special Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity” between Mongolia and Japan, maintain the frequency of exchanges of high-level visits, strengthen the ties between supreme legislative bodies of our two countries, and expand the cooperation between Parliamentary Friendship Group and office of the State Great Khural.
Within the framework of his visit, Speaker Zandanshatar is planning to hold official talks with the President of the House of Councilors of the National Diet of Japan Hidehisa Otsuji, Speaker of the House of Representatives Hiroyuki Hosoda, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of Yasutoshi Nishimura and the President of JICA Akihiko Tanaka and exchange views on cooperation between the two countries.
Source: Montsame, GoGo News
See also: Chairman of the State Great Khural Holds Official Talks with President of the House of Councilors of the National Diet of Japan
GOVERNMENT TO EXERCISE OWNERSHIP OF OIL REFINERY THROUGH ERDENES MONGOL LLC
During its regular session on March 1, 2023, the Cabinet made the following decisions:
The Government of Mongolia will exercise its ownership right in Mongolian Oil Refinery plant through the Erdenes Mongol LLC.
The Cabinet made a decision to exercise its ownership right in Mongolian Oil Refinery plant through the Erdenes Mongol LLC. Accordingly, the Executive Director of Erdenes Mongol LLC was tasked to amend the company charter. Minister of Mining and Heavy Industry J. Ganbaatar was tasked to control over the construction process of oil refinery plant and crude oil pipelines in accordance with the policy of relevant ministry.
About 210 thousand tons of coal have been traded via Mongolian Stock Exchange
In order to organize the market trade of mining products in an open, transparent and fair manner, create favorable condition where the prices are set by exchanges, attract investors into mining sector through integrated export policy, openly disseminate the information on trading…
Source: Montsame
KALMYK ACTIVIST WITH EXPIRED RUSSIAN PASSPORT ON HIS WAY TO U.S. AFTER MONGOLIA REFUSED ENTRY
A leading Kalmyk activist whom Mongolian officials did not allow to enter their country because his Russian passport had expired has left Ulan Bator international airport for the United States.
The #1ROOT and #NoWar groups said on March 1 that Batyr Boromangnaev, the deputy chairman of Kalmyk’s self-governing Congress of the Oirat-Kalmyk people and former leader of the Yabloko party’s branch in Kalmykia, was allowed to leave Mongolia for the United States. It is unclear how and under what conditions Boromangnaev was allowed to travel to the United States.
Former Mongolian President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj placed a video on Twitter on March 1 showing Boromangnaev leaving the airport's gates with an added caption: "Good-bye, Hero."
A day earlier, Boromangnaev told RFE/RL that his passport expired while he was temporarily detained in Kazakhstan, which he passed through en route to Mongolia.
Source: RFE/RL
See also: Kalmyk Activist Who Fled Russia Unable To Enter Mongolia Due To Expired Passport
WOMEN FOREIGN MINISTERS’ MEETING TO BE HELD IN MONGOLIA
During the 59th Munich Security Conference (MSC), the Minister of Foreign Affairs B. Battsetseg met with women foreign ministers of some countries on February 18.
Women Foreign Ministers from 11 countries attended this annual conference and exchanged views on global governance, armed conflict, climate change, trade and overcoming the international and regional challenges.
On the occasion of this meeting, Minister of Foreign Affairs B. Battsetseg handed the invitation for the Women Foreign Ministers’ meeting, which will be held in Ulaanbaatar between June 29-30 over to the ministers and gave information about the meeting.
Source: Montsame
PUTTING MONGOLIA ON THE DIGITAL MAP: BOLOR-ERDENE BATTSENGEL - INTERVIEW
Bolor-Erdene Battsengel wants to transform Mongolia into a “digital first” country — and help young people, especially girls in this sparsely populated nation of 3.3 million, to learn how to code.
During her time with Mongolia’s digital development and communications authority, including a year as vice minister, Battsengel, 30, worked on digitizing the country’s government services so people in remote areas don’t have to spend long days traveling and waiting in lines for access to things like passport renewals or filing taxes.
Today Battsengel is completing a policy fellowship at Oxford University and runs Girls Code, which teaches girls from disadvantaged communities and nomadic families computer programming.
She spoke to The Associated Press about facing online harassment as a young woman in politics and about Mongolia’s unique position as a democracy nestled between Russia and China. Over 84% of Mongolia’s population is connected to the internet, up from just 18% a decade ago, according to the World Bank.
Source: Associated Press
CAN THE MINISTER OF BORDER CHECKPOINTS REVITALISE AND EXPAND THEM? - EDITORIAL
Mongolia's border checkpoints now have a minister in charge of them. This minister does not have her own ministry, office, and even budget. The success or failure of the MPP in the next parliamentary elections will depend on the performance of this minister.
For the rest of the period, no matter how many railroads are put into service and no matter how many hundreds of trillions of MNT of thefts are discovered, if inflation does not fall and the national currency does not stabilize, it is doubtful that the Oyun-Erdene government will get good marks. Every time he announces the start of the fight against a large criminal group, protesters come to his door because the prices of consumer goods have soared, their supply has shrunk, and economic hardship is directly felt by households.
It is clear how this is happening and how to fix it. But it is not clear who can fix it.
Source: Mongolian Mining Journal
HIGHER EDUCATION POLICY: GOVERNANCE AND ENDOWMENTS - EDITORIAL
On Nov 14 2022 I was invited to speak to the parliamentary working group for draft education laws.
One of the topics that I prepared to speak about was university governance. Over the years, I had heard many complaints about political appointees at Mongolian universities and their lack of academic sensitivity and understanding, but also professors’ resentment at having non-academics appointed to the presidency of their universities in particular or at not being involved in that appointment at all.
In my presentation to the UIX’ working group I had thus expected to provide an overview of UBC governance structures to compare to those relevant to Mongolian public universities. But, somewhat to my surprise, I found fairly few structural differences. The main difference is probably that the UBC Board of Governors does put together hiring committees for appointments to some of the main university positions, including those of the president and the provost.
Source: Mongolia Focus
ELBEGDORJ: UKRAINE: A NON-NEGOTIABLE WIN – OPED
Slava Heroyam! Ukraine will be glorious again! To the wounded hills of Ukraine life will return. The destroyed homes and streets will be rebuilt. Separated families and loved ones will be united. The dead will be mourned but Ukraine will celebrate freedom and peace. I attended the Munich Security Conference and these were the sentiments of many world leaders.
I have great trust in standing together as one, totally united in the face of Putin’s aggression. I have a firm conviction in the power of freedom. No power, authoritarian dictator, or militant junta can stand against the will of people determined to be free. The voice of the people and their resolve are far more powerful than any gunfire. Freedom is non-negotiable when it faces extermination.
Freedom is an opportunity for all. But despots offer solutions and opportunities that only comfort themselves. They claim they bring justice. But their justice is selective.
Source: Eurasia Review
A BIG STEP TOWARDS “SYSTEMATIC CHANGE” - EDITORIAL
Recommendations were made based on the results of the national consultation “Let’s decide by consultation” organized in two stages. Generally, the authorities are one step closer to achieving their goal of increasing the number of members of Parliament by amending the Constitution. They also raised the pledge to conduct the mixed electoral system instead of a 100 percent majority, but a proportional or a combination of the majority version. They define these as “system change” in general, and it can be said that they are remembered by the public.
In connection with the change of the system, the authorities started a national consensus, meeting with representatives of civil society organizations, political parties, and protesters one after another, and gathered the opinions of citizens through a recent consultation. In order to change the constitution, social consensus must be met.
Source: The UB Post
FORMER AMBASSADOR TO U.S.: EXTERNAL PILLAR SUPPORTING MONGOLIA'S INDEPENDENCE – USA - INTERVIEW
We commemorated the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the United States in 2022. In honor of this milestone, a MONTSAME correspondent interviewed Jalbuu Choinkhor, Mongolia’s former Ambassador to the U.S., about the history and current state of relations and cooperation between Mongolia and the U.S.
- Last year we commemorated the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the U.S. What role did you play in the initial development of diplomatic relations between the two countries?
I cannot claim to have played a big role in the initial phases. Throughout the main events of the process of establishing diplomatic ties in 1985-1987, I was studying at the Diplomatic Academy in Moscow. But I also cannot say that I played no role because before departing for studies in 1984, I met and became acquainted with Donald Johnson, who first played an active role on the American side in establishing diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the U.S.
Source: Montsame
MONGOLIAN PRESIDENT ON SHARED VISIONS, GROWING TRADE AND CLOSER CULTURAL TIES WITH CHINA - VIDEO
Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh envisions his country becoming a developed economy within decades. In this exclusive edition of Leaders Talk, he speaks to CMG’s Li Tongtong about how China’s Belt and Road Initiative has supported Mongolia’s progress by building infrastructure, especially the “railways of development” that have widened exports. The two neighboring countries have agreed to double their trade to $20 billion and align climate change combat strategies through Mongolia’s national campaign to plant one billion trees in 10 years. He also talks about young Mongolians’ keenness to learn Chinese and cultural exchanges that have enhanced mutual understanding. Besides, there are glimpses into the president as a man – a former soldier who values exercise and physical fitness as well as a guitarist whose music dream came true at the age of 50.
Source: TheGlobalHerald.com
CIVIL SOCIETY RAISES CONCERNS ABOUT DETENTION OF ACTIVIST AND RESTRICTIVE SOCIAL MEDIA LAW AS ANTI-CORRUPTION PROTESTS ERUPT IN MONGOLIA - EDITORIAL
Civic space in Mongolia is rated as ‘narrowed’ by the CIVICUS Monitor. Ongoing concerns raised by civil society include reports of harassment, intimidation and reprisals against human rights defenders, including those working to defend economic, social and cultural rights, by government authorities and private corporations. Further, provisions of the Criminal Code related to cooperation with foreign intelligence agencies (article 19.4) and sabotage (article 19.6) have been used to prosecute human rights defenders for legitimate activities. There are also concerns about press freedom.
In recent months, human rights groups have called for the release of jailed human rights defender Munkhbayar Chuluundorj. A new social media law - that could be used to silence online dissent - has been returned to parliament. There were protests against against corruption in the coal industry in December 2022.
Source: CIVICUS
BUSINESS
CONFERENCE EXPLAINS IMPLICATIONS OF LAW ON MINING EXCHANGE TO COAL TRADERS
Road transportation plays a vital role in the electronic trading of coal, as transportation costs account massive part of the coal trade. According to the Plenipotentiary Representative of Government for “Erdenes Tavantolgoi” Company J. Ganbat, tendering the transportation companies aims to make coal transportation more transparent and reduce transportation costs.
Temporary resolutions for mining companies to participate in electronic trading with their own delivery options are now being changed as well in order to make the operation transparent.
Representatives of about 200 Chinese coal-purchasing companies attended this meeting, jointly organized by the Ministry of Mining and Heavy Industry and the Financial Regulatory Commission. During the meeting, the organizers presented and explained the Law on Mining Exchange, which will come into force from July 1 of this year, and the Regulation on electronic trading of export coal. In addition, the participants also discussed how electronic trading takes place after law enforcement and how to make long-term and short-term contracts.
Source: Montsame
See also: Discussion on “Electronic Trading of Export Coal” Organized Successfully
JADE GAS BEGINS MONGOLIA NATURAL GAS DRILLING PROGRAM
Jade Gas Holdings Ltd. will explore for natural gas in the south Gobi region of Mongolia.
During the 2023 exploration program, the company will drill four exploration wells targeting three coal seams of interest in the northern extension of the Red Lake area within its TTCBM Project permit. The drilling program is expected to begin in March.
Successful drilling will expand the size of the current 246 bcf unrisked gross 2C contingent resources, the company said.
At the same time, Jade will test Red Lake-5 and Red Lake-7 to provide data about permeability that will be used to design the pilot production program later in the year. Red Lake-5 was drilled to a total depth (TD) of 687 m and intersected 36 m of gassy coal in the target coal seams. Red Lake-7 reached TD at 501 m with 62 m of gassy coal intersected.
Source: Oil and Gas Journal
View the Jade Gas release
ELIXIR ENERGY PASSES DAILY FLOW RATE MILESTONE AT CBM PILOT PROJECT IN MONGOLIA
Elixir Energy Ltd has notched up another milestone at its Nomgon IX Coal Bed Methane (CBM) Production Sharing Contract (PSC) in Mongolia with the pilot production project achieving a daily gas flow rate of 200,000 cubic feet.
The extended pilot production project in the country’s resource-rich South Gobi Basin has been operating successfully for more than 100 days.
This week the combined production from the Nomgon-8 and 9 wells reached 200,000 standard cubic feet per day (scfpd) of gas for the first time, as the pilot continues to depressurize.
Elixir’s managing director Neil Young said: “Our Nomgon pilot project continues to deliver the goods with an excellent flow rate from what are simple and shallow vertical wells.
"The pilot will continue in the weeks to come and we will provide further updates as it moves towards its conclusion.”
Impressively, the Nomgon-9 well exceeded 150,000 scfpd, or 75%, of the total.
Source: Proactive Investors, The Market Herald, Natural Gas World
ION ENERGY RESTARTS LITHIUM BRINE DRILLING IN MONGOLIA
ION Energy Ltd. told investors it has restarted water well drilling at the Urgakh Naran lithium project, in Mongolia.
The company, which aims to specialise in lithium brine exploration and development, in a statement said that three water wells have so far been drilled at the project, for a total of 682 metres of drilling, to return lithium values.
Drill holes UNWH-01 and UNWH-02 were each drilled to a depth of 300 metres, whilst UNWH-03 currently at 82 metres and is continuing.
“Having previously reported strong results from the lithological holes, the company is now pleased to share that we are completing our third water well at the highly encouraging Urgakh Naran project," said chief executive Ali Haji.
"Until recently, ION's team had anticipated not being able to return to the site and resume this phase of our drilling program until much warmer weather, later in March.”
Source: Proactive Investors
CHINA APPROVES ZIJIN-XANADU JV
China just approved its third largest miner, Zijin Mining Group, to proceed with a JV alongside ASX-listed microcap Xanadu Mines on Friday.
Zijin notified Xanadu management the company has now cleared its final regulatory hurdle to progress the Kharmagtai copper-gold project in Mongolia, meaning Xanadu and Zijin’s 50/50 JV is now legally ratified.
“It is pleasing to now have PRC regulatory approval, clearing the final hurdle to launch our partnership with Zijin,” Xanadu chief Colin Moorhead said.
The mine is in the same jurisdiction as Rio Tinto’s flagship Oyu Tolgoi copper-gold mine. Rio recently boosted its stake in that project to 66%, and it expects to double copper production by 2030.
Xanadu raised $1.1m in capital to finalise the approvals process last month. The company also reported a “remaining $7.2m [will be] invested into Xanadu at the company level.”
“The company will now proceed to finalise arrangements with Zijin to progress to completion,” Xanadu wrote on Friday.
Source: MarketIndex.com.au
MONGOLIAN FILMMAKERS UNITED TO MAKE A CONTENT FOR NETFLIX
Mongolian filmmakers are jointly working on new Netflix content about Chinggis Khaan. This project aims to promote The Great Khaan’s pearls of wisdom to the world.
The film is based on the novel “The Secret History of Chinggis Khaan” by S. Jargalsaikhan. Filmmakers said, “It’s time to make Mongolian content that meets with Netflix standard.”
Crew members for film production include:
-Director: M. Batbold, Director of the National Academic Drama Theatre and the Orfey Theater
-Exclusive Producers: J. Bilguun, President of the “Sorogdogiin Jargalsaikhan Foundation”
T. Ariunchimeg, Executive director of the Orfey Theater
Screenwriter: Ya. Bayaraa.
The project is open to everyone who wants to promote The Great Khaan's legacy and Mongolian heritage to the world.
Source: Montsame
RIO TINTO’S OYU TOLGOI COPPER MINE RECEIVES ITS FIRST BATTERY ELECTRIC VEHICLE
Oyu Tolgoi, one of the largest copper-gold mines in the world located in Mongolia, has received its first battery-powered mining vehicle for trials. The Normet Utimec MF100 Material SD is designed for bulk material transportation in underground mines and tunnels, with a 10-tonne payload capacity and a fast charging capability.
The fast-charging vehicle also has two high-torque direct drive electric motors, energy recuperation technology, and efficient hydraulic dual-circuit oil immersed multi-disc brakes. The vehicle has a front axle suspension system, improving safety, driving comfort, and increasing component lifetime. The batteries get charged when the model during movement downhill and deacceleration, leading to better efficiency.
The maximum speed of the Utimec is 20 km/h. It features a fully reversible 4WD with high traction capability and instant torque to ensure safe and sure movement in difficult ground conditions.
Source: Energy and Mines
ENTRAVISION COMMUNICATION ANNOUNCED AS THE AUTHORIZED SALES PARTNER OF META IN MONGOLIA
Entravision, a leading global advertising solutions, media and technology company, announced today that its Asia-based digital business unit has become the Authorized Sales Partner in Mongolia of Meta, the company that owns Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp.
“This partnership reinforces our commitment to advertisers and their agencies to connect brands to consumers through local strategic support, creative expertise and relevant in-market training,” said Pieter-Jan de Kroon, Chief Executive Officer of Entravision Asia. “As we continue to expand our presence throughout Asia, we are thrilled to partner with Meta as their Authorized Sales Partner in Mongolia to equip and empower local businesses with the most advanced and effective advertising solutions.”
As an Authorized Sales Partner of Meta, Entravision will provide a dedicated local team, strategic direction, support, training, lines of credit and local billing to advertisers in the Mongolian market to enable them to meet their business objectives.
Source: Investing.com, BusinessWire.com
STEPPE GOLD’S NEW LIFE-OF-MINE PLAN & FUTURE DUAL HKEX LISTING - VIDEO
Our EVP, Aneel Waraich, shared details of Steppe's updated life-of-mine plan for our flagship ATO #gold project in #Mongolia, with Proactive Investors. This update adds a further 1.5 years to our Phase II fresh rock expansion for a 12-year aggregate mine life.
Tune into the latest #STGO interview, to also hear about our plans to move forward with a dual primary listing of our common shares on the Main Board of the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (HKEx), the premier listing venue for Asia-based companies. We're looking forward to raising our company's profile with a growing regional investor base.
Learn more: steppegold.com
Source: Proactive Investors
GLOBAL AND REGIONAL NEWS
INDIA GDP OUTPACES CHINA DESPITE SLOWDOWN TO 4.4 PCT LAST QUARTER
India's economic growth rate slowed to 4.4% in the third quarter of the current fiscal year, official figures showed on Tuesday, although the country is zipping ahead of regional rival China.
India's gross domestic product growth for the October-December period matched the Reserve Bank of India's 4.4% year-on-year estimate. Before the data release, 42 economists polled by Reuters had given a median forecast of 4.6%.
The growth rate has been slipping since the revised 13.2% logged for the first fiscal quarter, from April to June. The figure for July to September came in at 6.3%. In the October-December period of the previous year, the South Asian nation's GDP grew 5.2%, according to the latest numbers.
Nevertheless, India remains one of the world's better-performing economies, with the government maintaining its full fiscal year projection of 7%, after an upgraded 9.1% for the previous 2021-2022 fiscal year.
Source: Nikkei Asia
See also: Here’s how much economists expect China’s GDP to grow this year
CHINA’S FACTORY ACTIVITY GROWS FURTHER, MARKS ITS HIGHEST READING IN NEARLY 11 YEARS
China’s factory activity for February bounced further into expansion territory, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics. The official manufacturing purchasing managers’ index rose to 52.6 in February – above the 50-point mark that separates growth from contraction. That marks the highest reading since April 2012, when it hit 53.5. February’s PMI reading is also higher than the 50.1 reported for January and above expectations of 50.5, according to economists surveyed by Reuters. Non-manufacturing PMI also grew further to 56.3 from January’s print of 54.4, when it saw a sharp improvement backed by a recovery in services and construction activity. The government said February’s reading showed continued improvement in the climate for production and business, noting that the total volume of activity “significantly increased” as well. Shortly after China’s factory activity data was released, Moody’s announced that it expects China’s economy to grow by 5% for 2023, an upgrade from its previous outlook of 4% growth. Source: CNBC
G20 TALKS IN INDIA END WITHOUT CONSENSUS ON UKRAINE WAR AMID SOARING TENSIONS
A meeting of top diplomats of the Group of 20 industrialized and developing nations ended Thursday in New Delhi without a consensus on the Ukraine war, India’s foreign minister said, as members grappled with deepening rifts in their ranks and held contentious talks dominated by Russia’s war and China’s moves to boost its global influence.
Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said there were “divergences” on the issue of war in Ukraine “which we could not reconcile as various parties held differing views.”
“If we had a perfect meeting of minds on all issues, it would have been a collective statement,” Jaishankar said. He added that members agreed on most issues involving the concerns of less-developed nations, “like strengthening multilateralism, promoting food and energy security, climate change, gender issues and counter-terrorism.”
Host India had appealed for all members of the fractured Group of 20 to reach consensus on issues of deep concern to poorer countries even if the broader East-West split over Ukraine could not be resolved.
Source: France24
See also: Blinken, Lavrov speak briefly at G-20 meeting
EUROZONE INFLATION DROPS TO 8.5 PCT IN FEBRUARY: EUROSTAT
The annual rate of inflation within the eurozone was 8.5% in February, the EU's statistics agency said Thursday.
The fall from last month's figure of 8.6%, though, was less than expected, with analysts at financial data firm FactSet predicting a sharper fall to 8.2%, while the Bloomberg forecast was 8.3%.
While inflation was lower than the 10.6% high in October, fears lingered that the earlier surge in energy prices is now having a larger impact on the economy among the 20 countries that use the euro.
Annual inflation still remains higher than the European Central Bank's (ECB) objective of 2%.
A continued decline in energy costs had pushed consumer prices lower, but in February the rise in food and drink costs outpaced that of energy.
Eurostat showed that food and drink prices soared by 15% last month.
Germany's federal statistics office Destatis said on Wednesday that February's inflation rate was 8.7%, the same as the previous month
Source: Deutsche Welle
COPPER PRICE RISES AS CHINA’S ECONOMY SHOWS STRONG RECOVERY
The copper price rose on Wednesday after better-than-expected manufacturing activity data from China underpinned demand hopes.
The manufacturing purchasing managers’ index rose to 52.6 last month, the National Bureau of Statistics said Wednesday, the highest reading since April 2012. A non-manufacturing gauge measuring activity in both the services and construction sectors improved to 56.3. Both indexes beat economists’ expectations.
“Overall trend still points to a solid recovery at the beginning of 2023,” said Zhou Hao, chief economist at Guotai Junan International.
“The decent PMI readings provide a positive note for the upcoming National People’s Congress,” with the government expected to roll out further supportive policies to cement the recovery, he said.
Copper for delivery in May on the Comex market in New York touched $4.16 per pound ($9,152 per tonne), up 1.9% compared to Tuesday’s closing.
China is expected to set its GDP growth rate target at 5.5%-6% this year…
Source: Mining.com
See also: Iron ore price jumps on China data, bullish steel demand outlook
U.S. LABOR MARKET RESILIENT; INFLATION HOTTER IN FOURTH QUARTER
The number of Americans filing new claims for unemployment benefits unexpectedly fell last week, pointing to a persistently tight labor market, and further fueling fears that the Federal Reserve could raise interest rates higher than anticipated.
Those worries were amplified by other data on Thursday showing inflation was much stronger than initially thought in the fourth quarter, which raises the risk of higher readings when the government publishes January's personal consumption expenditures (PCE) price data on Friday.
While the Fed is expected to deliver two additional rate hikes of 25 basis points in March and May, financial markets are betting on another increase in June. The U.S. central bank has raised its policy rate by 450 basis points since last March from near zero to a 4.50%-4.75% range.
Higher inflation chipped at consumer spending, resulting in the fourth-quarter gross domestic product growth estimate being trimmed to a 2.7% annualized rate from the previously reported 2.9% pace.
Source: Reuters
FOREIGN INVESTMENT IN CHINA SLUMPS TO 18-YEAR LOW
Investment by foreign companies in China tumbled to its lowest level in 18 years in the second half of last year, buffeted by tensions with the U.S., a dimming growth outlook and fears of possible backsliding on economic reforms.
Foreign direct investment into China totaled $42.5 billion between July and December 2022, according to an official balance of payments. That constituted a 73% decline on the year, the sharpest drop dating back to data in 1999. Half-year totals had averaged more than $160 billion between late 2020 and early 2022.
Meanwhile, foreign direct investment by Chinese companies grew 21% to $84.2 billion. The $41.7 billion net outflow marked the first in five and a half years.
Companies' reluctance to make new investments in China has been fueled in part by fallout from the country's zero-COVID policy. Actually utilized foreign direct investment in the last quarter of 2022 fell 35% on the year to $33.8 billion…
Source: Nikkei Asia
See also: China’s FDI decline: Why are foreign companies decreasing their dependency on Asian giant?
JAPAN BIRTHS FALL TO RECORD LOW AS POPULATION CRISIS DEEPENS
The number of births registered in Japan plummeted to another record low last year – the latest worrying statistic in a decades-long decline that the country’s authorities have failed to reverse despite their extensive efforts. The country saw 799,728 births in 2022, the lowest number on record and the first ever dip below 800,000, according to statistics released by the Ministry of Health on Tuesday. That number has nearly halved in the past 40 years; by contrast, Japan recorded more than 1.5 million births in 1982. Japan also reported a record high for post-war deaths last year, at more than 1.58 million. Deaths have outpaced births in Japan for more than a decade, posing a growing problem for leaders of the world’s third-largest economy. They now face a ballooning elderly population, along with a shrinking workforce to fund pensions and health care as demand from the aging population surges. Source: CNN
See also: Deaths jumped 8.9% in Japan in 2022 to almost double birth total
CO2 EMISSIONS MAY BE STARTING TO PLATEAU, SAYS GLOBAL ENERGY WATCHDOG
Global carbon dioxide emissions are still rising but may at least be reaching a plateau, research from the International Energy Agency has shown. CO2 from energy – by far the biggest source of emissions – increased by less than 1% in 2022. This was despite the turmoil in energy the markets caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The rise is smaller than the 6% increase in emissions from energy recorded by the IEA in 2021, a leap that came on the back of the rebound from the Covid-19 pandemic. However, a 7% reduction is needed every year to meet the goal of halving emissions this decade. Many experts had feared the soaring price of gas could push countries back towards using coal, which has much higher carbon emissions. But renewable energy seems to have been a big beneficiary, as countries opted for solar and wind power, and encouraged the take-up of heat pumps and electric vehicles. Source: The Guardian
PANAMA AND CANADA'S FIRST QUANTUM NEARING AGREEMENT OVER COPPER MINE -LAWYER
The Panamanian government and Canada's First Quantum are nearing an agreement on their negotiations over the contract to operate a major copper mine, Ebrahim Asvat, a lawyer advising the government on the negotiations told Reuters on Tuesday. An agreement could be reached in less than two weeks, Asvat said, noting there are only three issues left to be solved, with two of them being in the final stage of negotiations. Asvat said the third issue was an "economic aspect" which involved the company asking for more tax deductions that would hurt the government's income from the mine in times of high production and copper prices. Nevertheless, Asvat said he believes "an agreement is imminent". The company and Panama's government have been locked in a prolonged contract dispute with tax and royalties at the forefront of the stalemate. In a latest twist, an order from Panama's maritime authority banning cargo operations at a port forced the firm to halt its ore processing operations. Source: Reuters
BCM SUBMITS POLICY PAPER
The Business Council of Mongolia (BCM) Secretariat has submitted a Policy Paper to the Government of Mongolia on 13 October 2022.
BCM Secretariat has submitted summary of issues and proposed solutions on newly adopted Corporate Income Tax law drafted by the Chair and Vice-Chairs of the Tax & Regulatory Working group (lead by Ms. Kh.Amarjargal, Country Director Mongolia-Rio Tinto, Mr.B.Battushig - Founding Partner of DB>S LLP and Mr.R.Khishignemekh -Senior Partner of Ernest and Young TMZ).
The 42 pages of findings and recommendations was submitted to the Cabinet Secretariat of the Government of Mongolia, to the Minister of Finance, to the Minister of Mining and Heavy Industry; to Secretariat of the State Great Khural (Parliament); Standing Committee on the Economic Affairs; Ministry of Justice and Internal Affairs; Standing Committee on the Budget; Economy and Development Ministry. In collaboration with Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, American Chamber of Commerce in Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar Chamber of Commerce and Mongolian National Association.
BCM would like to thank Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, American Chamber of Commerce in Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar Chamber of Commerce and Mongolian National Mining Association and BCM Regulatory & Tax Working Group for their efforts to protect legal interests and rights of business entities in Mongolia.
Source: BCM
THE BCM APPOINTS RAPHAËL GOUÉ AS OFFICIAL BCM REPRESENTATIVE IN EUROPE
The Business Council of Mongolia is pleased to announce Mr. Raphaël Goué as an official BCM Representative in Europe.
Raphaël Goué is an expert in energy and banking, having spent more than 12 years in Asia as well as being involved in Europe-Asia cross-border projects since the mid-90s, with a focus on financial services, energy and telecommunications.
Mr. Goué has a wealth of experience in supporting global financial institutions and energy companies in their strategies in Asia, as well their development and M&A. He has previously held various positions in organizations such as Société Générale, Vivendi Universal, Booz & Co and Capital One in Europe, Africa and Asia. As a senior advisor of the global retail banking association EFMA, Raphaël has been supporting the development of banking’s leading association in selected Asian markets, and supporting EFMA in the fintech sector in Europe.
He holds an engineering degree from the École Nationale Supérieure de Géologie in Nancy, France, a master in material science from École de Mines de Nancy, and a MBA from HEC (Paris) he finalized at the Columbia Business School (New York).
The BCM is looking forward to expanding its reach to Europe with Mr. Goué’s leadership and assistance.
SDG INVESTOR MAPPING PROJECT SURVEY - IDENTIFYING BUSINESS CASES FOR INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES
The objective of this template is to collect data on businesses aligned with SDGs, and if selected, your provided data will be compiled into SDG Investor Map datasheet which will be eventually uploaded onto Global SDG Investor Platform managed by UNDP SDG Impact. The outcomes of the data will be aggregated to gather insights that will be presented in the form of a report along with other secondary research that we have conducted. Thus, we would like to seek your permission to use your data for business research and documentation purposes. For any individual information from your business, due permission will be sought before the publishing of the report. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
UNICEF: GUIDANCE FOR EMPLOYERS ON FLEXIBLE WORK ARRANGEMENTS AND OTHER GOOD WORKPLACE PRACTICES IN THE CONTEXT OF COVID-19
A family friendly workplace or employer is one whose policies and practices make it possible for employees and/or workers to more easily achieving work-life balance, and to fulfil both their work and family obligations. These policies may include, but are not limited to, childcare, breastfeeding rooms, flexible work arrangements, paid leave, safe transport, parenting education and so on. In Mongolia and various other countries, authorities have enforced kindergarten- and school closure policies as part of the preparedness and response to contain the COVID-19 epidemic. In addition to the impacts on children’s education, there are concerns about children’s protection and well-being as children are left alone or without adequate care as many parents still need to go to work. COVID-19 may also have negative effects on mental health and wellbeing of patients (if any), caregivers, children and adolescents and the public, such as experiencing fear of the consequences of infection with a new virus, and triggering stigma. Those placed in quarantine (or self-isolated) may experience boredom, loneliness, and anger. By promoting flexible working arrangements such as adjusted working hours, working from home and/or support childcare, your employees will be in better position to address any childcare challenges and not be distracted by concerns about their children’s safety and wellbeing at home. Click here to view in English. Click here to view in Mongolian.
UNICEF: CALL FOR ACTIONS OF THE PRIVATE SECTOR TO REDUCE CHILDREN’S EXPOSURE TO AIR POLLUTION IN UB
Too many children are at risk of dying in UB due to air pollution each year. In addition to longer-term measures to reduce overall levels of air pollution in Ulaanbaatar, UNICEF recommends that companies address some of their CSR activities in the following ways:
- Provision of air purifiers to kindergartens, schools and clinics. Children spend a considerable amount of their time in school. Air purification systems are demonstrated to be effective in reducing air pollution levels within a home or classroom. Recent innovations have made these more affordable, durable and effective. Every classroom should have an air purifier.
- Provision of electric heaters to kindergartens, schools and clinics. Electric heaters can help to reduce ambient air pollution. Reducing financial barriers to access can also help improve use of electric heaters.
- Improved construction and insulation in kindergartens, schools and clinics. This can help reduce the amount of air pollution that enters facilities where children spend most of their time. It also saves considerably on heating costs. Studies show some improvements can decrease air exchange by up to 40%.
- Provision of air pollution monitoring devices in kindergartens, schools and clinics. Monitoring devices are often a first, major step to understanding one’s own risk to air pollution. It can not only inform improved practices to reduce exposure, but it is also an effective mechanism for communities to better understand what is causing air pollution, and when it is particularly harmful.
- Improved awareness and behaviour-change campaigns. Low awareness amongst communities about the impacts of air pollution on child health and how to respond is a key barrier to addressing the air pollution crisis. There is a need to influence policymakers, relevant government institutions, businesses, CSOs, development partners, and the general public (including families and children) about the risks that air pollution poses to their health, as well as provide guidance and recommendations on various ways to address some of the most immediate threats.
These actions will reduce children’s exposure to air pollution, safeguarding them from the worst impacts at the same time as building momentum and creating an enabling environment for longer plans that reduce air pollution. UNICEF will provide guidance on these recommendations where possible. UNICEF can also help facilitate connections between actors, agencies and institutions, including schools/ clinics where children are particularly affected. However, in order to maximize efficiency, these projects should be planned, developed, implemented and monitored by the private sector company involved. Nor will any funding go through UNICEF. This helps enhance accountability, and allows private sector donors to be more actively involved in the solution of directly supporting children in UB to breathe cleaner, healthier air.
For more information and guidance, please contact UNICEF for (Amy Wickham, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; and Sunjidmaa Jamba, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.)
BCM GUIDELINE FOR COMPANIES TO COMBAT AIR POLLUTION
Purpose: This Guideline document is to help CEOs and business leaders quickly identify possible actions they can implement in their organizations against air pollution.
Resources for information on Air Pollution
Specific ACTIONS that companies can take NOW:
Educate employees about air pollution; invite guest speakers; encourage employees to share information with friends and family; discuss possible solutions with employees
- Possible topics: damages and causes of air pollution, protection measures, energy consumption & efficiency; indoor air quality (smoking indoors); breastfeeding & healthy diet; vehicle idling; vehicle maintenance;
Work environment:
- Improve energy efficiency in building/office to reduce energy consumption;
- Plant & maintain trees; install air cleansing plants in the office;
- Install HEPA air filter and air purifiers to tackle indoor air pollution (For an affordable solution, visit http://smartairfilters.com/mn/en/;
- Install monitoring devices;
- Smart Air Mongolia masks
Work activities:
- Ensure company vehicles are well maintained to reduce pollution emissions;
- Drivers/employees instructed to not idle & to turn off vehicle engine when not moving;
- Implement carpooling activities;
- In polluted air, ensure employees wear pollution masks;
Social responsibility:
- Focus CSR (corporate social responsibility) initiatives to tackle air pollution
- Tackle air pollution in UB: UNICEF recommends focusing on areas where children are especially affected, and where urgent interventions need to be put in place to protect them as soon as possible. These include the provision of air filtration systems and electric heaters in kindergartens and schools in some of the worst-affected regions. For more information and guidance, please contact UNICEF for (Nicholas Rees, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; and Sunjidmaa, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.);
- Run marketing/PR campaigns & contests that raise awareness about air pollution.
List of distributors for pollution masks:
- BRB – 70119967, 99658555
- BOX shop – 99062387, 75557007, 90878111 – Facebook: RZ утааны маск
- CATD LLC – 11327308, 99114346
- Mmarket – 75758001 – Facebook: Утааны Маск
- MONOS Pharmacy – 99190858
- Seven summits – 11317923
- 3M Mongolia Premier Service - 9400-3088, 9910-3335
- Utaanii Mask – 99906643 – Facebook: Утааны маск + Агаар шүүгч
- Cycling World Mongolia LLC authorized distributor of RESPRO pollution masks- 77110444
MEMBER-TO-MEMBER SPECIAL OFFERS & BENEFITS:
- Orchuulga 24 is providing a 15% discount on written translation services to BCM Members - Ombol LLC is offering free Hepatitis C medication to employees of BCM member organizations, provided that the individual pays into state health insurance. ECONOMIC INDICATORS
HISTORIC ANNUAL INFLATION
Year 2009 *4.2% [source: NSOM]
Year 2010 *13.0% [source: NSOM]
Year 2011 *10.2% [source: NSOM]
Year 2012 *14.0% [source: NSOM]
Year 2013 *12.5% [source: NSOM]
Year 2014 *11.0% [source: NSOM]
Year 2015 *1.9% [source: NSOM]
Year 2016 *1.1% [source: NSOM]
Year 2017 *6.4% [source: NSOM]
Year 2018 *8.1% [source: NSOM]
Year 2019 *5.2% [source: NSOM]
Year 2020 *2.3% [source: NSOM]
Year 2019 *13.4% [source: NSOM]
*Year-over-year (y-o-y), nationwide
CENTRAL BANK POLICY LOAN RATE
December 31, 2008 - 9.75% [source: IMF]
March 11, 2009 - 14.00% [source: IMF]
May 12, 2009 - 12.75% [source: IMF]
June 12, 2009 - 11.50% [source: IMF]
September 30, 2009 - 10.00% [source: IMF]
May 12, 2010 - 11.00% [source: IMF]
April 28, 2011 - 11.50% [source: IMF]
August 25, 2011 - 11.75% [source: IMF]
October 25, 2011 - 12.25% [source: IMF]
March 19, 2012 - 12.75% [source: Mongol Bank]
April 18, 2012 - 13.25% [source: Mongol Bank]
January 25, 2013 - 12.50% [source: Mongol Bank]
April 8, 2013 - 11.50% [source: Mongol Bank]
June 25, 2013 - 10.50% [source: Mongol Bank]
July 30, 2014 - 12.00% [source: Mongol Bank]
January 14, 2015 - 13.00% [source: Mongol Bank]
January 14, 2016 - 12.00% [source: Mongol Bank]
May 6, 2016 - 10.50% [source: Mongol Bank]
August 18, 2016 - 15.00% [source: Mongol Bank]
December 19, 2016 - 14.00% [source: Mongol Bank]
June 15, 2017 - 12.00% [source: Mongol Bank]
December 22, 2017 - 11.00% [source: Mongol Bank]
March 23, 2018 - 10.00% [source: Mongol Bank]
November 27, 2018 - 11.00% [source: Mongol Bank]
March 11, 2019 - 10.00% [source: Mongol Bank]
April 13, 2020 - 9.00% [source: Mongol Bank]
September 14, 2020 - 8.00% [source: Mongol Bank]
November 11, 2020 - 6.00% [source: Mongol Bank]
January 1, 2022 - 6.50% [source: Mongol Bank]
SOVEREIGN CREDIT RATING
| Moody’s |
Fitch |
S&P |
B3 – stable – 16 Mar 2021
B3 – negative – 8 May 2020
B3 – stable – 18 Jan 2018
Caa1 – stable – 30 Mar 2017
Caa1 – neg. watch – 15 Feb 2017
Caa1 – stable – 18 Nov 2016 |
B – stable – 9 Jul 2018
B- – positive – 17 Nov 2017
B- – stable – 22 Nov 2016
B – stable – 24 Nov 2015
B+ – negative – 13 Dec 2013 |
B – stable – 10 Nov 2018
B- – stable – 19 Aug 2016
B – stable – 03 Nov 2015
B+ – neg. – 29 Apr 2015 |
CURRENCY RATES – 2 March 2023
| Currency |
|
|
Rate |
| U.S. dollar |
USD |
|
3,521.70 |
| Euro |
EUR |
|
3,746.03 |
| Japanese yen |
JPY |
|
25.75 |
| British pound |
GBP |
|
4,218.64 |
| Hong Kong Dollar |
HKD |
|
448.65 |
| Russian ruble |
RUB |
|
46.64 |
| Chinese yuan |
CNY |
|
509.80 |
| South Korean won |
KRW |
|
2.68 |
|
