MOFALI, UNDP, and GEF Launch Project to Eliminate Hazardous Chemicals from Supply Chains in Mongolia

April 9, 2026

Ulaanbaatar, 9 April 2026 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry (MoFALI) and with funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), officially launched the project “Eliminating Hazardous Chemicals from Supply Chains in Mongolia.”

The inception workshop brought together high-level representatives from MoFALI, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the General Authority for Veterinary Services, the SME Agency, industry associations, research institutions, development partners, and private sector stakeholders from the wool, cashmere, and leather industries.

The six-year initiative aims to reduce and phase out the use of hazardous and toxic chemicals in Mongolia’s cashmere and leather supply chains by strengthening chemicals management systems, promoting cleaner and circular production practices, and supporting the competitiveness of Mongolian products in international markets.

Mr. Dondogdorj M., Director of the Light Industry Policy Implementation and Coordination Department, MoFALI, emphasized, “The Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry reaffirms its commitment to ensure the effective and sustainable implementation of this project. We are confident that this initiative will make a tangible contribution to advancing Mongolia’s wool, cashmere, and leather sectors toward environmentally friendly, high-value-added, and globally competitive industries.”

The project will focus on Mongolia’s wool, cashmere, and leather sectors, which remain central to rural livelihoods, herder incomes, and the country’s light industry development. By introducing cleaner and more resource-efficient production models, the initiative will help reduce risks to human health and the environment while supporting innovation, circular economy solutions, improved wastewater and waste management, and stronger occupational health and safety standards.

Ms. Matilda Dimovska, UNDP Resident Representative in Mongolia, highlighted, “UNDP remains committed to supporting Mongolia in building cleaner, safer, and globally competitive supply chains. This project will help reduce hazardous chemicals, strengthen sustainable production, and deliver benefits for both people and the environment.”

About UNDP

UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet.

About GEF

The Global Environment Facility (GEF) is the world’s largest multilateral fund for the environment. Its family of funds work together to address the planet's most pressing challenges in an integrated way. Its financing helps developing countries address complex challenges and work towards meeting international environmental goals.

For more information, please contact:

Khulan Bayarsaikhan | Communication Expert | UNDP Mongolia | khulan.bayarsaikhan@undp.org