Traditionally a land of pastoral nomadism; its main industries are livestock raising, processing and export of animal products including wool, hides, cloth and leather goods. Trade had historically been greater with Russia than China, but this has been changing in recent years.
The terms "Inner" and "Outer Mongolia" were derived from the Chinese Manchu language, and could be perceived as "sinocentric" since they imply a perspective centered on China proper (Inner Mongolia is closer than Outer Mongolia to China). The terms were used by the Republic of China to refer to what is now the independent state of Mongolia plus the Republic of Tuva in Russia. Today, the Chinese more frequently use the term "Mengguguo, literally meaning "State of Mongolia."
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