Buying Cashmere In Mongolia

Last updated 3 weeks ago by Jessica Brooks | Published: April 4, 2025

Buying Cashmere In Mongolia

Mongolian cashmere has earned its excellent reputation for good reason. As the second-largest producer of cashmere in the world, Mongolia offers some of the finest quality products available if you’re considering buying cashmere in Mongolia.

The Origins Of Cashmere In Mongolia

Mongolia has experienced a 2.1-degree Celsius increase in average air temperatures over the past 70 years, making it one of the countries most affected by climate change. This has led to an increase in the frequency and magnitude of natural hazards, including harsh winters (dzud), drought, snowstorms, and dust storms. As nearly 30% of the population relies heavily on livestock and natural resources for their livelihood, Mongolia’s herders are particularly vulnerable to these impacts.

One way that Mongolia’s herders have adapted to the changing climate is by increasing the size of their goat herds. Spring is one of the harshest times of the year for herders, and vital income can be made by collecting and selling cashmere wool – the fine underbelly fibers combed out as the goats moult when the weather warms. Herders hand-comb and carefully sort the wool before selling it to a cashmere buyer.

The Impact Of Cashmere On The Environment

However, the increase in goat herds – known for their destructive grazing habits as they uproot entire plants – has contributed to further desertification of Mongolian pastures. According to the UNDP, over 70% of Mongolia’s pastureland is considered degraded due to overgrazing and climate change.

To address this, some producers are now using Mongolian yak wool – known as yak down – which is collected similarly to cashmere, as yaks and goats both grow insulating hairs under their fleeces for winter. However, yaks graze at higher altitudes, away from over-exploited grasslands, and their grazing habits are less damaging to the ecosystem.

Some of the yak-herding families we work with belong to the Ar Ardivjiin Cooperative in Arkhangai Province in central Mongolia, helping herders export high-quality yak down while promoting sustainable practices.

Why Buy Mongolian Cashmere?

Today, cashmere is one of Mongolia’s main exports and is prized for its durability and softness. The harsh weather conditions in Mongolia contribute to the production of high-quality, dense fibres. Although most refined goat cashmere is shipped abroad to be spun into fine yarn and crafted into garments, a portion remains in Mongolia. Local brands use this cashmere to produce beautiful Mongolian-made cashmere pieces.

Buying directly from Mongolian producers not only supports the local economy and ensures you get top-quality, authentic cashmere but also helps sustain traditional practices and create economic opportunities for herder communities.

Where To Buy Cashmere in Mongolia

Many of Mongolia’s most renowned cashmere brands (see below) have exclusive boutiques in Ulaanbaatar, specifically along the central Peace Avenue, including within the iconic State Department Store. You can also find their products at popular shopping centers such as Shangri-La and Galleria. These shops are easily accessible on foot, making them an excellent option for casual browsing or dedicated shopping sprees.

Looking for Deals?

For those looking to snag a bargain, visiting one of Ulaanbaatar’s cashmere outlet stores is a great option, although these typically carry last season’s stock. The main outlets are located conveniently near each other. They are accessible by taxi or private driver. To make the most of your visit and avoid heavy late afternoon traffic, it’s best to plan your trip earlier in the day.

Understanding Cashmere Prices

Cashmere prices vary depending on the item, brand, and quality. Smaller accessories like gloves, hats, or scarves typically range from $20 to $50. Mid-sized items such as shawls and light wraps can cost between $60 and $150. Larger pieces like sweaters generally range from $80 to $300, influenced by craftsmanship and material blend. High-end items, such as cashmere coats, can range from $400 to over $1,000, particularly from luxury brands or for unique, artisan designs.

Tips for Your Cashmere Shopping Experience

• Check for Discounts: Some stores may offer seasonal discounts or promotions, so it’s worth asking!
• Care Instructions: Cashmere requires special care to maintain its quality. Look for items with clear care labels, and consider how much effort you’re willing to put into hand-washing or dry cleaning.
• Shop at Reputable Stores: Stick to well-known brands and authorised outlets to ensure authenticity. Check the product label to ensure it’s 100% cashmere rather than a blend.

Mongolian Cashmere Brands

• GOBI Cashmere:GOBI Cashmere is a leading Mongolian cashmere manufacturer specialising in producing high-quality cashmere, camel wool, and yak down products. It oversees the entire production process—from sourcing raw materials directly from local herders to manufacturing garments in its vertically integrated facility. With a strong commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, GOBI ensures traceability throughout its supply chain, making sure to support Mongolia’s herding communities.
• Goyol Cashmere: Goyol Cashmere is a prominent Mongolian cashmere apparel producer with a product range including items made from 100% pure cashmere, silk cashmere, camel wool, yak wool, and sheep wool textiles. ​Committed to sustainability and ethical practices, Goyol Cashmere procures raw cashmere directly from herders in rural Mongolia, supporting local communities and ensuring high-quality materials. The company also provides technical assistance to herders to improve cashmere quality and is a women-owned and women-run enterprise, primarily employing women. )
• Evseg Cashmere: Evseg Cashmere specialises in ecological wool, camel hair, and cashmere products in the natural colours of Mongolian cashmere: white, brown, grey, and light grey. Committed to sustainability and ethical manufacturing, Evseg Cashmere is a proud member of both The Sustainable Fibre Alliance and The Mongolian Noble Fibre, organizations that advocate for animal welfare and responsible rangeland management.
• Erdenet Cashmere: One of the oldest brands in Mongolia, Erdenet Carpet is Mongolia’s largest carpet manufacturer. The Natural Textile Group serves as the parent entity encompassing Erdenet Carpet, but also Erdenet Cashmere, and Erdenet Home, leading providers in the textile, fashion, and home goods sectors. Erdenet Cashmere produces a wide range of knit and woven products using natural materials such as cashmere, sheep wool, yak, and camel down sourced from herders in Mongolia’s rural areas.

Whether you’re looking for a small souvenir or a luxurious statement piece, buying cashmere in Mongolia is an experience in itself. Embrace the chance to support local craftsmanship by buying from reputable local brands like Gobi, Goyo, and Evseg, who ensure the authenticity of their cashmere products while bringing home a piece of Mongolia’s rich textile heritage. You can use our map to see the location of the brands in Ulaanbaatar:

Our Shop Like A Local Experience

Shops are an integral part of a city’s culture, reflecting the spirit and creativity of the people who own and visit them. Our “Shop Like A Local” experience pairs you with one of our dedicated drivers and trip assistants. Before the day begins, we’ll provide you with a thoughtfully curated list of options and ideas, allowing you to shape your own personalised itinerary. Spend the day immersing yourself in the city’s unique shopping scene, both by vehicle and on foot, with a delicious local lunch included to complete the experience. Learn more here https://www.eternal-landscapes.co.uk/ulaanbaatar-shopping-experience-mongolia-one-day-tour/.

Jess @ Eternal Landscapes