Politics has been in turmoil for nearly 2 months. Meanwhile, a harsher winter has brought widespread electricity blackouts and now, a fuel shortage. Long lines snake around gas stations, with many waiting hours only to leave empty-handed.

‼️ War on the sidelines

On October 6, the Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources assured the public, “Don’t panic, there will be no fuel shortage. We have a 30-day supply.” Yet, less than 20 days later, queues of up to 2 km formed at some stations. Officials blame citizens for filling tanks and point to limited fuel tanks. Some politicians joke that the country should prioritize tanks over mega projects. 

😓 Trapped

Since August, Ukraine has targeted Russian energy infrastructure in over 20 strikes, aiming to pressure Moscow’s main revenue source, which finances its war. Mongolia, heavily reliant on Russian fuel imports, is now feeling the fallout.

• 😔 Frequent interruptions, massive outages: Mongolia typically faces fuel shortages once a year. 2 years ago, total reserves fell 42.4% compared to the previous year. Today, AI-92 reserves are below 2023 levels, even as the number of vehicles on the road continues to grow.

📌 Is there a solution?

The shortage may be partially alleviated by Chinese imports, 4,680 tons of AI-92 fuel across 78 wagons are en route, with plans to double imports. Mongolia has reserves capable of exporting 3–4 million barrels of crude annually, yet nearly a decade without a domestic refinery leaves the country vulnerable. Temporary fixes are not enough, both citizens and politicians know the basics, but decisive action remains elusive.