Part 6/10:

The country’s heavy reliance on China’s economy is also a matter of concern. While China remains Mongolia’s largest trading partner, some worry about Mongolia becoming a "dead trap"—dependent on China's market dynamics—an assertion both Beijing and Ulaanbaatar dispute.

Environmental and Cultural Woes in the Face of Development

Rapid infrastructure growth and urbanization have brought environmental challenges. The capital, Ulaanbaatar, suffers from severe air pollution, attributed to unplanned neighborhoods burning coal for heating—up to one million tons annually. The situation exacerbates health problems and threatens Mongolia's traditionally nomadic lifestyle.