Mongolia is grappling with a workforce challenge that mirrors those of many rapidly developing economies: balancing ambitious growth targets with a limited domestic labor pool. Recent policy debates highlight the complexity of this issue as the government considers the role of foreign labor to meet escalating demands for skilled workers in critical sectors. The outcome will significantly shape Mongolia’s economic trajectory.
Projections suggest a labor shortfall of up to 240,000 workers by 2035 as major infrastructure and development projects progress. This deficit is driven by demographic shifts and a steady outflow of Mongolians seeking jobs abroad.