The Institute of International Studies organized an academic discussion titled The Eurasian Economic Union and Mongolia on Tuesday. Scholars and officials examined the implementation of the interim trade agreement between the EAEU member states and Mongolia. Speakers also assessed its impact on economic policy, trade, exports, imports, and future risks. This interim trade agreement entered into force after Mongolia ratified it in December 2025. Participants agreed that more time is needed to evaluate its full benefits.
Senior researcher Davaasuren A. presented on current trade relations between Mongolia and the EAEU. He noted that several important issues remain unaddressed and need improvement. For instance, the agreement lacks tariff preferences for petroleum products from Russia. Mongolia remains heavily dependent on Russian energy imports. Consequently, the interim trade agreement should incorporate more flexible arrangements for meat exports. Lower tariffs and eased technical requirements would benefit both sides significantly.
Professor Otgonsaikhan N. discussed the agreement’s impact on Mongolia’s foreign trade. He highlighted that over 95 percent of the 370 product categories for Mongolian exports are agricultural goods. Thus, the interim trade agreement holds great promise for herders and food producers. Conversely, about 81 percent of goods from EAEU members to Mongolia are industrial chemicals. Mongolia hardly produces these items domestically. Therefore, exempting them from customs duties would be appropriate.
Professor Ulambayar D. noted that Mongolia is not an EAEU member despite a previous invitation. Quotas remain for imports such as eggs and wheat, with tariffs up to 100 percent beyond quota levels. Mongolia’s exports concentrate heavily on mining products destined for China. Agricultural exports have struggled to access neighboring regional markets. Because Russia now belongs to the EAEU, bilateral deals no longer suffice. Hence, the interim trade agreement offers a practical solution.
The EAEU and Mongolia signed this agreement on June 27, 2025. The State Great Khural ratified it on December 12, 2025. The deal remains valid for three years with mutual customs preferences on over 370 product categories. Specifically, tariffs of 15 to 50 percent on Mongolian livestock products may drop. Import tariffs on 42 categories of machinery could also fall by up to 89 percent. The interim trade agreement also includes measures to resolve non tariff barriers. For example, both sides aim to complete customs clearance within four hours. Participants stressed the need to monitor implementation closely. They also urged adding strategically important imports not yet covered. Finally, policymakers should develop responses to geopolitical risks. This interim trade agreement represents a step toward diversifying Mongolia’s trade partners. Long term success will depend on overcoming current gaps and expanding product coverage.
