A USD 1.6 bln uranium mining agreement between France and Mongolia, aimed at diversifying France’s nuclear fuel supply, faces political challenges in Mongolia. Debates on safeguarding strategic resources may postpone the deal’s finalization until after Mongolia’s June elections. French uranium company Orano SA and Mongolia reached a preliminary deal in October to develop the Zuuvch-Ovoo mine, expected to begin production in 2028. However, the final investment agreement’s signing, initially anticipated by the end of last year, is now uncertain.