Out of Steppe
"There used to only be bread and salt on our stalls. The transition has been very quick", explains Dagvadorj, one of Mongolia's richest businessmen. Of 3 million Mongolians, half live in the capital; there has been a rural exodus since a new consumerist way of life has emerged. While many have prospered as Mongolia grows rich, from globalisation, and inward investment; wealth inequality is extreme "with one third under the poverty level". A tale of two Mongolia's is emerging. As economist Danbadarjaa claims: "prosperity is not felt by every family". As Mongolia races forwards, for the "nomads crammed into the yurt slums that surround Ulan-Bator, poverty and alcoholism are rife" Tuul Saruula, claims. A fashion designer she signifies the new rich Mongolia. But as Mongolia develops, huge challenges remain.
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