Formalization of the Informal Economy Project

FYB training programme beneficiaries' testimonials

10 June 2025

FYB training participants, Selenge province © ILO Mongolia

MONGOLIA (ILO News) – Following the adaptation of the FYB to the Mongolian context and the launch of this programme in 2024, the project has implemented the FYB training programme in collaboration with the Mongolian Employers’ Federation (MONEF) in some districts and provinces of Mongolia from March to May 2025. A total of 241 informal workers participated, including 201 women.

Among these participants, the self-employed individuals provided testimonials.

1. Ariumaa, business owner in Bayangol district

"My name is Ariumaa, and I am very satisfied with the training I just attended. It provided exactly the information I needed, as I am currently working toward formalizing my business. Until now, I wasn’t sure where to start or how to proceed with the formalization process. This training helped me understand the initial steps, including how to communicate and what actions to take. A recent incident made it clear to me why formalization is necessary. I received a large order from an organization, but I was unable to fulfill it because they only contract with formally registered businesses. I had offered to issue an invoice and submit an eBarimt (electronic bill) as an individual, but that wasn’t acceptable to them. This became a major challenge. Although I didn't secure the order, the experience motivated me to explore the benefits and potential drawbacks of formalizing my business. Around the same time, the FYB training was announced and fortunately, I had the chance to attend. I’m grateful for the practical guidance this training provided, and I feel more confident about taking the next steps toward formalization".

FYB training participants testimonial-1

2. Doljinsuren, business owner in Zavkhan province

"My name is Doljinsuren Tsogtbaatar. Since 2021, I have been working on a project to cultivate medicinal herbs in our province. Over the past four years, I have gained extensive experience and have strived to become the first in my province to provide locally grown medicinal herbs to the community. I have actively participated in self-development trainings, gaining valuable knowledge and insights. This particular training was especially beneficial, as I had previously felt anxious and uncertain about matters related to taxes and social insurance. I am thankful to the ILO for organizing this training and I learned that these responsibilities can be managed in a simple and straightforward way. I wish you continued success in your future work and endeavours".

FYB training participants testimonial- 2

3. Nyamdorj, business owner in Zavkhan province

"My name is Nyamdorj, and since 2021, I have been running a business that manufactures wool gloves for both adults and children. I recently had the opportunity to attend a very insightful training called the FYB training. I formally established my company a year ago, but I had always felt anxious about running a formal business—especially when it came to preparing social insurance and tax reports. This training helped me understand not only the importance of fulfilling these obligations, but also the advantages of doing so. I learned that paying taxes and social insurance contributions is not just a legal responsibility, but also a way to provide long-term benefits to both myself and my employees. My understanding of these benefits has deepened significantly. Now I view social insurance contributions as a form of future savings and security. This training motivated me to operate my business in full compliance with the law, especially when it comes to the rights and well-being of my employees".

FYB training participants testimonial- 3

4. Oyunchimeg, business owner in Dornod province

"I have been participating in training on how to formalize a business. Like many others, I initially felt quite anxious about the process, especially regarding how to pay taxes and how to engage with the social insurance office. However, through this training, we have managed to overcome those fears. I’ve come to realize that running a formal business is not just a personal milestone, but a meaningful contribution to the country’s development. The ILO promotes decent work, and I now see that there is a real opportunity to focus on and support this goal. I currently manage two types of businesses, one of which operates in the beauty industry. In addition, I work as a certified labour relations consultant in Dornod province. When providing consultancy services, I often felt confused about how to effectively deliver guidance on labour relations. After attending this training, I feel that this confusion has been resolved".

FYB training participants testimonial- 4

5. Burenchimeg, business owner in Selenge province

"I have been running a business, making soap, candles, bath bombs, and various handcrafts for over 10 years. However, I started with little to no knowledge about running a business. I'm grateful to be attending this three-day FYB training, jointly organized by the ILO and MONEF. The sessions on tax and social insurance were particularly insightful and helped clarify many questions I had.
I would like to sincerely thank the two trainers and the organizers for putting together such a valuable and timely training".

© ILO Mongolia
© ILO Mongolia
FYB training beneficiaries

6. Tserenkhand, business owner in Dornod province

"I’m truly excited to be part of the FYB (Formalize Your Business) training. This program is especially designed for start-ups like ours, offering a wide range of practical knowledge on topics such as taxation, social insurance, and state registration.
After staying at home for two years to care for my child, I began selling products online to generate income and gradually built a base of reliable customers. Now that my child is walking and attending kindergarten, the timing of this training couldn’t be better—I’m genuinely grateful for that.
The training breaks down the business registration process in a simple and understandable way. I'm currently planning to take on a new challenge by starting a silver products business and have been considering whether to register a new company. My husband and I already have a company registered, and we’ve been submitting zero tax reports over the years. Thanks to today’s training session, I now understand that I can simply add the new sales activity to our existing company certificate and there’s no need to open a separate company.
This training is an excellent starting point for anyone thinking of launching a business. It teaches the basics of taxation and social insurance contributions. Once a business becomes formal, many doors open and it becomes possible to cooperate with other companies, build partnerships, and grow with confidence.
Ultimately, formalizing a business lays the foundation for long-term success".

7. Altantungalag, business owner in Tuv province

"My husband and I have been running a small shoe production business since 2018. When we receive a large number of orders, we occasionally hire 2 to 3 workers on a temporary basis. We initially started this business to supplement our family income, and it has operated informally since the beginning.
As we thought about formalizing the business, expanding our activities, and hiring permanent staff, we often felt stuck—not knowing where to start. The idea of dealing with taxes and social insurance contributions felt overwhelming and complicated.
However, thanks to the training, I realized that formalizing a family-run business is not only possible but also beneficial. I now understand that by complying with regulations, our business has the potential to grow and become more sustainable".

8. Narantuya, business owner in Songino Khairkhan district

"I just attended a training jointly organized by the ILO and MONEF, and I’m genuinely excited about both the outcomes and the training approach. The program was well-structured, with trainers employing a variety of effective teaching methods. They were highly knowledgeable and ensured active participation in every session.
One of the most valuable aspects was gaining a deeper understanding of how to formalize a business in collaboration with government agencies. I particularly appreciated the interactive sessions, where we worked in teams and exchanged ideas with fellow participants.
For business owners like us, the timing of this training was ideal. It addressed pressing topics we often face—such as contracts, social protection, and occupational safety and health. I was especially eager to learn about the functions of the State Registration Office, how to register a business, employer responsibilities, and the essentials of employment contracts".