Mongolia introduces fuel sales based on odd/even car license plate numbers. The country is feeling the effects of its dependence on Russia
In Mongolia, starting August 4, restrictions on fuel sales are being introduced based on the odd or even nature of vehicle license plate numbers. This measure will be in effect until August 15.
Illustrative photo
As announced by Mongolia's Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Ganboldyn Damdinyam, during one visit to a gas station, it will be possible to purchase fuel for no more than 50,000 Tugriks (about 13.9 US dollars).
The restrictions will be in effect from August 4 to August 15. On even dates, cars with license plates ending in 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 will be able to refuel; on odd dates, those ending in 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9.
According to the minister, the restrictions have been introduced to distribute the available reserves of petroleum products more evenly among consumers.
Mongolian authorities note that the country had fuel reserves for approximately one month of consumption, but demand for petroleum products increases by an average of 14% annually.
To avoid similar situations in the future, the country plans to build 22 new reservoirs and storage facilities for petroleum products. In 2026, Mongolian authorities want to create additional storage capacity for 15 days of consumption, in 2027 for a month, and by 2028 for three months. In the future, it is planned to bring the volume of reserves to the level of six months of consumption.
In addition, Mongolia has agreed with South Korea on the import of 20,000 tons of diesel fuel, 20,000 tons of automotive gasoline, and 6,000 tons of aviation fuel. Private companies also continue to conclude contracts for the supply of petroleum products.
Currently, Mongolia is extremely dependent on Russia for its fuel supply. Despite the country having its own oil deposits, it still lacks any refining capacities. As a result, extracted oil is exported to China, and finished products are imported from Russia. Approximately 80-90% of all light petroleum products (gasoline, diesel fuel, aviation fuel, liquefied gas) are purchased from Russia.
Consequently, any delays or interruptions in supplies from Russia, as well as changes in fuel prices, immediately paralyze the mining industry (which consumes a huge amount of diesel), transport, and agriculture.