LocationsStakeholders Discuss Greener Supply Chains in Mongolia’s Cashmere and Leather Sectors
September 2, 2026
Ulaanbaatar, 2 September 2026 – The Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry (MOFALI), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) convened a technical consultation on greener supply chains in Mongolia’s cashmere and leather sectors. The consultation brought together government, private sector, academic and technical representatives, including the Mongolian Cashmere Association and the Mongolian Leather Industry Association, to discuss policy and technical barriers to more sustainable production.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Lionel Laurens, UNDP Resident Representative in Mongolia, emphasized that safer chemicals management and greener supply chains can help reduce environmental risks while strengthening the sector’s sustainability and resilience. Mr. Dondogdorj M., Director of MOFALI’s Light Industry Policy Implementation and Coordination Department, outlined Government priorities to strengthen Mongolia’s light industry and improve its long-term competitiveness. Ms. Xin He, UNDP Regional Technical Advisor for the Asia-Pacific Region, highlighted the project’s role in promoting cleaner production technologies and sustainable chemicals management through coordinated action across government, industry, academia and the private sector.
National and international experts shared practical approaches to sustainable chemicals management, circular economy practices, green materials, chemical inventories and life-cycle assessment for the cashmere and leather sectors. Group discussions on “Green Supply Chains and Opportunities for Sustainable Production” and “Sustainable Production, Cleaner Technologies and Capacity-Building Needs” helped identify priority actions to reduce chemical risks, promote cleaner technologies, strengthen technical capacities and advance sustainable production across the value chain.
A key highlight of the consultation was the active engagement of factory engineers, technical experts, researchers and industry associations, whose practical insights on production processes, chemical use and technology needs helped ground the discussions in sector realities and inform future project interventions, research and policy recommendations. The consultation also underscored the need to reduce hazardous chemical use, expand safer and more resource-efficient alternatives, and strengthen cooperation among government, industry, academia and professional associations.
The event was organized under the Global Environment Facility-funded “Eliminating Hazardous Chemicals from Supply Chains in Mongolia” project, implemented by MOFALI with support from UNDP. Running from 2025 to 2030, the project promotes safer chemicals management, resource efficiency and environmentally sustainable production practices in Mongolia’s cashmere and leather sectors.
About GEF
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.
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 build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet.
Contact
Khulan Bayarsaikhan | Communications Analyst, UNDP Mongolia | khulan.bayarsaikhan@undp.org | 976-99096434
