MONGOLIA

Bilateral relations Switzerland–Mongolia

This landlocked country lies between the two great powers of China and Russia, has rich deposits of mineral resources and is of geopolitical interest. The volume of trade between the two countries is modest, although the number of Swiss tourists is on the increase.

Economic cooperation

Although since 1990 Mongolia’s formerly socialist economy has been transformed into a market economy, economic and trade relations between Switzerland and Mongolia remain modest. Since 2009, trade relations have shown a slight increase.

While Swiss exports to Mongolia are generated by Switzerland’s main export sectors, more than 90% of imports from Mongolia consist of raw materials. Mongolia is increasingly becoming a raw materials supplier of gold, copper, coal and uranium, and is investing in large mining projects.

Business language

Russian, German, English (for correspondence).

Dimensions and weights

Metric system.

Currency

1 Tögrög = 100 Möngö.

ISO code: MNT

Customs tariff

Harmonised system

Import control

Import licences are required for goods including weapons, chemical substances, alcoholic drinks.

Various ministries in Ulan Bator are responsible for trade with western countries. This is also where import licences are generally obtained before conclusion of the contract.

The foreign currency system is liberalised.

State export guarantees following a strict check of creditworthiness.

Standard VAT rate: 10%

Terms of payment and tenders

Request an irrevocable, confirmed letter of credit. Invoices in EUR.

Designations of origin

Standard information sufficient; no special provisions are known.

Packaging

No special regulations are known; robust, weatherproof packaging.

Product samples

Carnet A.T.A. procedure possible.

Shipping and accompanying documents

a) Commercial invoices, 5 copies, signed and with all standard information, uncertified.

b) Certificates of origin are required (number varies).

c) Packing list (2 copies), uncertified.

d) Insurance certificate (4 copies).

e) “Manufacturer’s quality and quantity/weight certificate“ (2 copies).

f) Postal items: maximum weight 20 kg, 1 international dispatch note, 2 customs declaration (English, French). Inspection certificate (Certificate of Conformity – CoC): pre-shipment inspection necessary. The exception to this is deliveries with a FOB value of less than USD 500. The importers must provide a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) for customs clearance. The CoC is issued to the exporter following a successful inspection. The costs depend on the FOB value and are to be borne by the exporter.