The ger to become an export product
During the past few years, the demand for the Mongolian ger has increased to the point where it is almost a major export product. According to the Head of the Mongol Ger Manufacturers’ Federation D.Otgonpurev over 2,000 gers are exported and over 6,000 gers are sold domestically each year.
Currently, there are over 150 companies and individuals producing gers for traveling and camping purposes with the addition of more practicality based purposes as well, such as for herders, mines, construction workers, tourist camps, city settlement, restaurants, and, exporting. Even in the souvenir industry of Mongolia, over 10 types of gers are produced with different sizes from three to 32 khanas or lattice walls.
For export purposes, it is considered that gers could be made even better by using more advanced technology, different materials and a new design that is more suitable for urban and nomadic lives.
D.Otgonpurev said, “By promoting the ger internationally and increasing exports, about 20,000 gers can be exported. The Mongol ger is becoming popular abroad in recognition of its excellent structure, ease to build and dismantle, as well as the practicality of using it during extreme weather conditions.”
But alongside with the increase in demand, there have also been signs of negative consequences. Several incidents occurred where Chinese and Russian companies invited Mongolian ger craftsmen to learn their secrets and manufacturing process without permission, according to D.Otgonpurev.
Director of Arts and Culture Policy Department at the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Sports B.Sergelen said, “UNESCO officially inscribed ‘Traditional craftsmanship of the Mongol Ger and its associated customs’ in its intangible cultural heritage list on December 6, 2013. For that reason, we, Mongolians, should be the ones that make Mongol gers and promote our cultural heritage to the world.”