First
Deputy PM N.Altankhuyag was in Arkhangai province over the weekend, assessing
the status of small and medium enterprises in the countryside. MNT 30 billion
has been lent to SMEs this year, designated as Industry Encouragement Year. Last
year 70 projects in Arkhangai got MNT845 million in loans and created 100 jobs.
last year. This year, 47 organizations have taken MNT433 million worth loans.

Altankhuyag
met businessmen of the province, including those who have taken loans, and also
those and those whose proposals were not accepted. He heard their complaints
and problems. He also visited factories and plantations of Gost Trade, Od Kr,
Terguun Suvarga, Khatan Trade and Suvdan Tsonkh companies to see their
operation after taking loans from the project. The companies took loans of MNT
8-30 million to buy and improve equipment.

Most
companies and individuals said they did not get the full amount they had applied
for, forcing them to trim their operation. Many also asked for softer
conditions for a second loans and easier repayment terms. Altankhuyag promised to
consider the matter.

He
also announced that a project worth 4 million euro will be implemented in the countryside
to improve business education and provide information.