Current Events - Mining in Mongolia

Copper Ore

          There is a huge mining operation currently going on in the Gobi Desert on "Oyu Togoi" which means "Turquoise Hill."  They are finding tons of copper and gold in the Desert.  It is estimated that that mine will produce around 300,000 ounces of gold and 450,000 tons of copper, and will probably end up being one-third of "the nation's total economic output."  Apparently, there is so much metal down there that the company will be busy for at 50 years or more.  The average amount of pay for Mongolia will increase by around 50%.  However, although the mining is doing so much good for the country, it is proving difficult for the local nomads to live their lives.  Some people are afraid that the mining will use up all the water in the ground, and others are frustrated because there is a limited amount of space where they can graze their herds.  Yet other nomadic herders believe that the mine is a good opportunity for making money.  If they can work at the mine and herd their animals, their children will have better chances to go to school and live better lives.

Gold

          I think that this mining company is doing a pretty good job of making Mongolia money and creating jobs for people who would otherwise be unable to support themselves.  The local people know that they need jobs, and even though it can be hard for the herders, I think that overall, the mines will benefit the country and its people more than it will hurt them. 

For more information, go to:  Mining in Mongolia