Rio Tinto in talks to prevent strike at copper mine in Mongolia

AKIPRESS.COM - Global miner Rio Tinto opens new tab is negotiating with workers at its Oyu Tolgoi copper operations in Mongolia to avert further industrial action over a sharp drop in wages that triggered an earlier strike in May, Reuters reported.

Changes in Mongolia's Labor Law, which came into effect at the start of 2022, prompted Rio Tinto to recalculate employee allowances. Wages have dropped by as much as 80%, according to non-governmental organization OT Watch, which is in contact with the mine workers.

"The key demand of workers is to bring wages to similar levels paid for the same type of work performed in other Rio Tinto mines," OT Watch said in a briefing note shared with Reuters, adding that workers were being paid a "miserable $1,596 per month for work far from home".

"Rio Tinto is committed to finding a resolution that benefits all parties involved," a Rio Tinto spokesperson said.

Oyu Tolgoi is a significant part of Rio Tinto's copper operations, contributing substantially to the company's output. It has been a crucial asset in Mongolia, with significant investments and collaborations with the local government and workforce.