Mongolia’s Legal Gambit over Oyu Tolgoi Enters New Uncertain Phase

Mongolia’s high-stakes legal move against Rio Tinto is entering murkier political waters. A previously undisclosed lawsuit filed in the United Kingdom, alleging bribery during the early phases of the Oyu Tolgoi copper-gold project, was initiated under former Prime Minister Oyun-Erdene.

The claim, reported by the Australian Financial Review on May 25, 2025, accuses Rio Tinto of improper payments between 2008 and 2012 to secure control over Mongolia’s flagship mine.

The timing is notable. While the previous administration oversaw the filing, it is unclear whether the new government led by Prime Minister Gombojavyn Zandanshatar will continue to pursue the case with the same intensity.

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