T. BATTULGA: THE "MONGOLIA MINING" EXPO HELPS TRANSFORM OUR RESOURCE-RICH NATION INTO A LEADER IN RESPONSIBLE MINING

The Mongolia Mining Expo, which showcases the progress of Mongolia's mining sector, its core principles of responsible extraction, and the prospects for innovation, marks its 15th anniversary this year. On this occasion, an interview was conducted with Mr. T. Battulga, Director of Minex Mongolia Co., Ltd-the initiator and organizer of the exhibition-regarding the contemporary development of Mongolia's mining industry and the current investment climate.

What was the original purpose of the "Mongolia Mining" Expo?

When we launched the "Mongolia Mining" international exhibition in 2011, our goal was to introduce a professional, internationally standardized mining exhibition culture in Mongolia and to strengthen cooperation across the sector. At that time, although the mining industry was expanding rapidly, there was no single platform that brought together companies, investors, suppliers, and government agencies.

Today, in its 15th year, the event has evolved into a well-recognized and prestigious Expo at the regional level.

As someone who has led this Expo for many years, how has the "culture" of mining in Mongolia changed in recent years?

Over the past fifteen years, Mongolia's mining culture and practices have undergone a profound transformation. In the past, short-term profit was often the main focus, but today, principles such as responsible mining, environmental protection, occupational safety, and community development have become central to the industry's operations. Mongolian engineers now possess skills that meet global standards, and many companies are actively adopting ESG principles and aligning their work with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This marks a genuine cultural shift within the mining sector.

How do foreign companies view Mongolia's mining sector?

International mining technology companies regard Mongolia as a promising and strategically important market. In recent years, major global brands in mining equipment have entered the country, allowing Mongolia to keep pace with international technological advancements.

However, the limited number of new exploration projects and discoveries continues to constrain the market's potential for further expansion.

What is most important for maintaining long- term investor confidence?

From an  investor's perspective, Mongolia's geopolitical location and rich mineral resources are highly attractive. However, the country is still perceived as a high-risk environment. To sustain investor confidence, three key factors are essential:

1. Stable and predictable policies

2. Transparent and fair taxation and licensing systems

3. Effective cooperation between the government, private sector, and local communities. When these elements are properly balanced, Mongolia can go beyond exporting raw materials and attract investment in value-added processing and renewable energy development.

What does the 2026 theme represent?

In 2026, we will celebrate the 15th anniversary of the "Mongolia Mining" Expo under the theme "Mining the Future: Innovation and Sustainability." This theme not only reflects on the progress and achievements of past years but also expresses our vision that the future of mining be shaped by innovation and responsible practices.

At the 2026 Expo, we aim to showcase technological transformation, automation, electric-powered equipment, and smart mining solutions that  leading the sector into a new era of sustainable development.

How quickly are Mongolian companies advancing "green mining"?

Mongolian companies have made significant progress in adopting green mining practices. Leading firms are increasingly implementing wastewater recycling, utilizing renewable energy, improving land rehabilitation, and strengthening their social responsibility initiatives.

While there is still work to be done, industry attitudes and awareness have clearly shifted. What was once viewed merely as a "government requirement” has now become a key factor in competitiveness.

What personal principles or beliefs guide you in successfully managing such a large-scale event every year?

I do not see "Mongolia Mining" as merely a technical trade fair; I view it as the flagship representation of Mongolian mining. In managing the Expo, I adhere to the principles of consistent quality, persistence, value creation, and trust-building.

Each year, witnessing the Expo's growing reputation and seeing Mongolian companies compete on equal footing with major international players fills me with immense pride.

You mentioned that Busines to Business (B2B) meetings are reaching a new level. How do they differ from previous years?

B2B meetings are now being conducted on a more digital platform, introducing a new system that allows participants to schedule meetings in advance, exchange profiles, and measure outcomes. This elevates the exhibition's impact, turning it into tangible business deals and partnerships.

What about international cooperation at Mongolia Mining 2026?

The Expo has consistently attracted strong participation from foreign organizations, making it a truly international event. For Mongolia Mining 2026, the embassies of Australia and Canada are collaborating as official partners.

In addition, major players from regional and global mining markets including China, Russia, and the United States will participate extensively. Over 100 organizations from more than 10 countries, such as Germany, the United Kingdom, India, Turkey, Belarus, Austria, Finland, Kazakhstan, and South Korea, will also be in attendance.

Mongolia's abundance of strategic minerals, including copper, coal, gold, and rare earth elements, combined with mining's role as a leading sector in the national economy, makes the country highly attractive to foreign suppliers. By participating in the exhibition, these companies can engage directly with key decision-makers, explore new clients and sales channels, and identify potential cooperation opportunities.

The growing demand for advanced mining technologies, environmental innovations, and digital solutions in Mongolia further creates favorable conditions for foreign companies to expand their presence.

Together, these factors contribute to the Expo's annual growth, enhancing its international reputation, fostering new partnerships, and building trust across the industry.

Long-term vision-What are the future goals of Mongolia Mining?

Our long-term vision is to develop the Mongolia Mining Expo into a key platform for mining technology in Eastern and Central Asia. Beyond the Expo itself, we aim to create a year-round ecosystem that includes training programs, conferences, innovation forums, and digital networking opportunities.

Ultimately, the Mongolia Mining Expo seeks to contribute to Mongolia's transformation-not just as a country rich in mineral resources, but as a nation recognized for leading in sustainable and responsible mining practices.