T. Zorigtsaikhan: FLS Mongolia is Ready to Support the Next Generation of Mining Development

As Mongolia’s mining sector continues to expand, FLS (FLSmidth) Mongolia has established itself as a critical partner for the nation's largest mega-projects, including Oyu Tolgoi, Erdenet, and MAK. Established in 2013, the company combines global technology with local insight to drive operational efficiency and sustainable growth.

In this interview, T. Zorigtsaikhan, Business Development Director at FLS Mongolia, shares how the company builds long-term client trust, tackles the industry's talent challenges by offering global opportunities for young engineers, and delivers smart, digital solutions to pave the way for sustainable mining.

- FLS (FLSmidth) has successfully collaborated with Mongolia's largest and most critical mining projects for many years. Among the projects you have implemented, what is the success story that you are most proud of and that serves as a model for others?

Established in 2013, FLS Mongolia now operates with 47 staff across a mining service centre and sales office in Ulaanbaatar. Our major projects include working with customers in the mining sector, such as Oyu Tolgoi, Erdenet Mining Corporation, MAK, Boroo Gold, UHG and MAX Group. We help clients maintain sustainable, long-term operations. For example, we are currently working with MAK, which has a planned production timeline until 2027.

- Could you share more about your company's internal culture and how you develop and support your employees?

The high turnover rate in the mining sector, especially among younger engineers, is a challenge. Many people leave Mongolia for better opportunities abroad, such as in South Korea or Australia. However, one of the benefits of working for an international company like FLS is the opportunity for employees to relocate to other branches around the world. This appeals to young engineers seeking global experience. At FLS, we show them they can grow within the company, and if they choose to leave, we support their decision. It is also important to create an environment where they feel they are making a real difference, both in their professional lives and in the larger context of Mongolia’s mining development.

- The mining equipment market is highly competitive. Yet, Mongolia's mega-projects and mines consistently choose FLS. What is the secret behind the long-term trust you build with your clients?

As full flowsheet solution providers, we guide customers on optimal technologies and processes. We aim to be the go-to partner for any new mining project in Mongolia. The country has a wealth of untapped resources, including gold, copper, uranium, and lithium, and as these sectors grow, FLS is ready to support their development. We are focused on long-term relationships with customers, ensuring that we are there every step of the way as new mines come online. Our global expertise and local insight uniquely position us to shape Mongolia’s mining future.

- For companies in this sector, cutting costs and increasing productivity are paramount. How exactly do FLS's smart equipment and digital solutions provide tangible support in reducing the operational expenses of mines?

FLS is committed to net-zero emissions by 2030. Our value proposition reflects that we provide miners with the knowledge, technology, and support they need to enhance their mineral processes efficiently. Our goal is to help them meet the increasing global demand for minerals responsibly and sustainably. And by doing so, we help ensure that mining practices are both productive and environmentally conscious. On the local level, FLS Mongolia is taking practical steps, such as reducing plastic use in our office, encouraging recycling, and minimizing paper usage, such as no longer printing company brochures. For our customers, we aim to help them save energy, reduce water wastage, and improve their overall environmental impact. We aim to meet operational needs while advancing sustainability.

- Mongolia's mining sector is expanding and developing year after year. What are FLS Mongolia's key objectives and vision for the coming years? What new solutions and innovations do you plan to introduce to the market in the future?

The future of mining in Mongolia is incredibly bright. Our focus will remain on providing high-quality solutions, innovative technologies, and long-term partnerships with clients. We also plan to further strengthen our position as a leader in mineral processing by expanding our capabilities and expertise. The government’s commitment to the mining sector, combined with the growth of new resources, will keep Mongolia at the forefront of global mining, and FLS Mongolia will be there every step of the way to support this development.