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Mongolia — Daily

Mongolia Daily: Hospitals face supply suspensions, UNICEF backs ger insulation, and odd–even traffic rules begin

,   and  Lexica
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Politics

Published: 2025-08-26

President U. Khurelsukh received the board of the “Council of Mongolians Abroad,” reviewing July’s Brussels-hosted World Mongolians Festival and mapping next steps to engage the diaspora. Organizers reported over 100,000 Mongolians live in Europe and said roughly 15,000 foreign visitors attended the festival. The NGO highlighted that commitments sought in 2021—continental rotation of the festival, a unified program for overseas Mongolian schools, and a consolidated diaspora forum—are now in place. Discussions focused on protections for an estimated 300,000 citizens overseas, facilitating return and investment, leveraging expatriate expertise to expand trade, and strengthening Mongolian-language education for children abroad. The President expressed support and asked that his greetings be conveyed to overseas citizens.

"On behalf of Mongolians abroad, we thank you—our 2021 proposals are now successfully being implemented." - S. Tserendemberel, head of the Council of Mongolians Abroad (ikon.mn)

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Tax Overhaul Bill Proposes Automatic Withholding from Debtors’ Incoming Funds, Expanded Relief for Low- and Middle-Income Earners

Published: 2025-08-26

Parliamentarian Kh. Gankhuyag outlined draft amendments to Mongolia’s tax package shifting enforcement from punitive measures to facilitation. The proposal would end account freezes for delinquent taxpayers and instead automatically offset incoming funds against outstanding tax debts under a non-dispute procedure. Post-audit corrections to tax returns would be permitted, signaling a more collaborative compliance model. Public input cited by lawmakers prioritized universal compliance, lower rates, and customs reform. The bill also expands relief: projected benefits include MNT 1.1 trillion for individuals earning up to MNT 1 million monthly, MNT 554 billion for those up to MNT 3 million, and MNT 318 billion for higher earners. Gankhuyag linked reforms to high social insurance burdens and noted stalled efforts to reduce employer contributions.

"We are moving from a system that fines and freezes accounts to one that advises, assists, and supports. Freezing accounts for non-payment will end, with incoming funds offset against tax debt without dispute." - MP Kh. Gankhuyag (ikon.mn)

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Government Sets Up Task Forces to Boost Mongolia’s Share from Oyu Tolgoi, Engages Rio Tinto Leaders

Published: 2025-08-26

Mongolia’s Cabinet Secretariat Chief S. Byambatsogt met Rio Tinto Mongolia executives to push for greater national returns from the Oyu Tolgoi copper project, signaling continuity with previous policy and new oversight steps. He said the government prioritizes mutual benefit and has formed task forces under a 2021 parliamentary resolution to negotiate and enforce measures. Finance Minister B. Javkhlan will lead talks on revising project financing interest terms; Industry and Minerals Minister G. Damdinnnyam will determine the state stake in licenses for Shivee Tolgoi and Javkhlant held by Ontre within the Oyu Tolgoi area; and Justice Minister L. Munkhbaatar will defend Mongolia’s position in a London arbitration case.

"We place special emphasis on increasing Mongolia’s returns from the Oyu Tolgoi deposit, ensuring both the state and investors win together." - S. Byambatsogt, Chief of Cabinet Secretariat (itoim.mn)

"The government will work hard so Mongolians gain greater benefits and higher returns from Oyu Tolgoi." - S. Byambatsogt, Chief of Cabinet Secretariat (itoim.mn)

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Government Asks MPs to Submit Constituency Investment Proposals Within MNT 5 Billion Annually

Published: 2025-08-26

Mongolia’s 2026 state budget debate is underway, with the government requesting each constituency-elected MP to submit investment proposals capped at MNT 5 billion per year—up to MNT 15 billion over three years. The request would align projects with the forthcoming budget bill to be introduced at the autumn parliamentary session. MP Ch. Lodoisambuu criticized the move as undermining centralized development planning and fiscal coherence, signaling a potential clash with the cabinet as budget talks intensify.

"This initiative that the government pushes every year is an attempt to buy Parliament—corruption." - MP Ch. Lodoisambuu (gogo.mn)

He said he is preparing a formal inquiry to the Prime Minister. The dispute highlights persistent tensions over constituency-directed spending and the balance between strategic national planning and local project allocation during budget formulation.

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2026 Budget Draft Shifts Half of Kindergarten Meal Costs to Parents, Scales Up Health and Education Investments

Published: 2025-08-26

Mongolia’s Finance Ministry has sent the 2026 state budget draft to the Cabinet, proposing notable shifts in education and health funding alongside incremental spending growth (to roughly MNT 31 trillion). In pre-primary education, parents would cover 50% of kindergarten meal costs starting 2026, linked to personal income tax deductions to broaden the tax base (approx. MNT 69.5 billion impact). Variable per-student funding, school lunches, and dormitory costs would rise in line with enrollment (MNT 96.2 billion). The draft advances construction and upgrades across the sector: 95 new kindergartens and 108 schools planned for 2026–2028 via state funds and external financing, with immediate allocations for 30 kindergartens and 65 schools plus 19 dormitories. Health spending targets primary care access (MNT 82.5 billion) and major facility upgrades nationwide (MNT 241.9 billion), including ICU and emergency capacity, supported by foreign loans. Additional ADB-backed education equipment financing totals MNT 9.3 billion, with a larger MNT 538.1 billion project slated to begin in 2026.

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Published: 2025-08-26

Former president N. Enkhbayar accused the previous cabinet led by L. Oyun-Erdene of enabling a large-scale “coal-for-rail” scheme tied to the Gashuunsukhait–Gantsmod cross-border railway link. He claimed a plan would exchange 320 million tonnes of coking coal over 16 years to fund a 25-km connector, calling it vastly overpriced and opaque compared with typical rail costs, and suggesting undisclosed beneficiaries. The remarks surfaced as the ruling party heads toward its congress and after the June 15 launch of the rail connection project. The rail agreement envisions China Energy signing a 16–20-year supply contract with Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi, with committed offtake volumes from 2025.

"They are talking about building 25 km of railway with US$24 billion worth of coal. This is a swindle." - N. Enkhbayar, former president (itoim.mn)

"He hides it while they are in office; he stabs after they leave. No sign of change." - S. Bayar, former prime minister (itoim.mn)

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Economy

China–Mongolia Expo Showcases 350+ Mongolian Firms as Ulaanbaatar Seeks Easier Customs and Expanded Coal Transport

Published: 2025-08-26

The 5th China–Mongolia Expo opened in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, featuring over 350 Mongolian companies promoting 700+ products from cashmere and leather to food and mining. Trade between the two countries reached $18.6–19.1 billion in 2024, edging toward leaders’ $20 billion goal, with coal remaining the main export driver. Senior Deputy Prime Minister and Economy Minister N. Uchral highlighted private-sector complaints about customs delays and said new unified customs rules are being rolled out, while talks aim to ease quarantine approvals. He also proposed increasing “C” permits for coal haulage trucks and enabling 24/7, automated operations at key border ports.

"We are working to reduce red tape and ease quarantine approvals, with unified customs procedures set to take effect." - N. Uchral, Senior Deputy Prime Minister (news.mn)

"Stable, long-term contracts that reflect market price changes are essential for boosting coal supply." - Sun Shaocheng, Party Secretary of Inner Mongolia (montsame.mn)

State-owned Erdenes Tavantolgoi is pitching long-term sales to Chinese buyers as Mongolia explores broader cooperation, including renewable energy links with Inner Mongolia. The expo runs through August 29.

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Tax Package Proposes Relief for Low- and Middle-Income Earners, Expands VAT Scope to Digital Services

Published: 2025-08-26

Parliament is set to debate a tax reform package from June 15 that would cut the personal income tax (PIT) burden for low- and middle-income workers while tightening corporate and VAT rules. Under the proposal, monthly incomes up to MNT 800,000 (annual MNT 9.6 million) would be fully exempt from PIT; average earners around MNT 1.5 million would see their effective rate halved; and the top 20% rate would apply only above MNT 360 million in annual income (up from MNT 180 million). VAT refunds would become tiered: 100% refund on purchases up to MNT 500,000, 50% for MNT 500,000–800,000, and 20% above that. VAT registration threshold rises to MNT 400 million and would extend to foreign e-services and online retail. Corporate income tax adds a 15% bracket for profits MNT 6–10 billion, with 10% below and 25% above. Housing-related tax credits increase to MNT 15 million.

"Claims that PIT will be set at 20% are false; the law remains on a 10-15-20% scale, with relief targeted at lower incomes." - Kh. Ganhuyag, MP and Industry and Minerals Minister (news.mn)

"This is not about taxing high earners more; it’s about reducing the burden on low- and middle-income citizens." - Kh. Ganhuyag, MP and Industry and Minerals Minister (gogo.mn)

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Erdenes Mongol Reports Strong H1 Profit as Darkhan Metallurgical Plant Exceeds Targets and Advances Steel Complex Plan

Published: 2025-08-26

State-owned holding Erdenes Mongol reported H1 2025 revenue of MNT 5.5 trillion and net profit of MNT 1.4 trillion, with mining and production plans fulfilled at 96% and 95% respectively, and MNT 1.6 trillion paid in taxes. The group aims to boost efficiency and cut costs across 16 subsidiaries following cabinet directives. Darkhan Metallurgical Plant (DMP), a key subsidiary, outperformed its H1 plan with 1.48 million tonnes of ore mined (+26% vs plan), 0.79 million tonnes of concentrate (92% of plan), and steel output of 19.5k tonnes, generating MNT 284.9 billion in revenue and MNT 36.7 billion net profit; it contributed MNT 51.7 billion in taxes, $127 million to FX reserves, and MNT 39.6 billion to the National Wealth Fund. DMP is preparing a million‑tonne annual steel complex, seeking international investors with Erdenet Tech Park, while completing winterization, ISO certifications, and worker safety and housing initiatives.

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China’s Zairt Mineral Invited to Bid for Copper Smelter Linked to Erdenet

Published: 2025-08-26

Industry and Mineral Resources Minister G. Damdinyam met representatives of China-based Zairt Mineral to discuss collaboration on a long-planned copper smelter to be built alongside the Erdenet Mining Corporation. The minister invited the company to participate in an open tender for the project, which previous governments have endorsed but stalled for lack of investors. A prior feasibility study estimated a US$1.1 billion investment to process roughly 600,000 tonnes of 22–23% copper concentrate from Erdenet into cathode copper, with potential 6–7x higher value-add and 853 new jobs, plus prospects for downstream machinery and an automotive cluster. Zairt Mineral is described as a leading copper smelter operator in China and has signaled interest in expanding cooperation in Mongolia.

"We invite Zairt Mineral to take part in the open selection to establish a copper smelter based on Erdenet, strengthening Mongolia–China mining cooperation." - G. Damdinyam, Industry and Mineral Resources Minister (eagle.mn)

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Consumer Prices Climb Across Sectors as Import Costs and Currency Volatility Bite

Published: 2025-08-26

Mongolia’s domestic prices have surged across multiple categories since the start of 2025, driven by higher import costs, rising transport and logistics expenses, exchange-rate volatility, and weaker local production, according to the National Statistics Office. Passenger cars posted the steepest increase, up 67% year-on-year, adding roughly MNT 1 million on average. Diesel prices rose 20%, feeding through to transport costs and broader inflation. Building materials increased 15%, furniture 14%, and food staples—led by bread and flour—climbed 18% (with overall food up 12%). Mobile phones rose 8%, household goods 9%, and health products 7%. The data signal mounting cost pressures across supply chains and consumer budgets, with fuel and vehicle prices amplifying inflationary momentum in construction and household spending.

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Wheat Import Plan Triggers Flour Price Increases in Ulaanbaatar Markets

Published: 2025-08-26

The Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry’s policy unit announced plans to import 100,000 tonnes of wheat this year, and wholesale-retail markets in Ulaanbaatar have already raised flour prices. As of August 26, packaged Altan Taria flour is listed at MNT 3,610/kg for premium grade, MNT 2,750 for first grade, and MNT 1,800 for second grade at major supermarkets. In high-traffic markets such as Khuchit Shonkhor, Tavan Erdene, Bumbugur, Bayanzurkh, and Kharkhorin, premium Altan Taria sold in bulk is around MNT 3,200/kg; at Bars market it is MNT 3,000 for premium and MNT 2,200 for first grade. Prices are up 13.88% from last month, with further increases expected. Rising flour costs could pressure household budgets and food businesses, influencing bakery and noodle prices and broader food inflation through Q4.

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China’s July Coking Coal Imports Rise on Month as Russia Gains Share; Mongolia Holds Lead

Published: 2025-08-26

China imported 9.62 million tons of coking coal in July 2025, up 5.7% month-on-month but down 11.2% year-on-year, customs data show. The import bill fell to $800 million, with average prices sliding to $83.6/ton—down $73.7 year-on-year and $11 month-on-month—reflecting a weaker pricing environment. For January–July, coking coal imports reached 62.45 million tons (-8.5% y/y), dominated by Mongolia (48%) and Russia (29%). Russia’s July volumes surged 45.2% m/m to 3.38 million tons, expanding its market share, while Mongolia’s share remained steady. Canada and Australia saw sharp declines; Indonesia stayed marginal. Mongolia shipped 4.98 million tons in July, a 2025 high, though its average price dropped to $59.8/ton. Near term, Chinese coke producers plan capacity cuts ahead of a September 3 military parade rehearsal, which could temper demand and cap Mongolian price gains despite recent supply tightness and futures-led buying.

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E-visa Platform Issues 12,681 Visas in July as Residency Decisions Update Foreign Workforce Profile

Published: 2025-08-26

"[No direct quotes were provided in the source article.]" - Montsame (montsame.mn)

Mongolia’s Immigration Agency reported July activity showing expanded digital processing: 12,681 visas were granted via evisa.mn to applicants from 41 countries, alongside 4,811 visa authorizations and 3,102 visas issued through standard channels. Authorities approved 1,810 new residence permits, extended 2,230, and removed 701 from the registry, after reviewing 25,335 applications through the unified e-services system. Guidance on residence, extensions, short-stay registration, visa extensions, ID issuance, and refunds was provided to 8,307 individuals. As of July, 36,483 foreign nationals from 135 countries hold official or private residency status in Mongolia, led by 20,897 workers and 5,074 investors; students total 3,871. The figures indicate sustained demand for labor and investment migration, with digital services now a central channel for entry and status management.

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VAT Reform Would Enlist Landlords and Informal Sellers as Taxpayers, End Exemptions for Meat and Milk

Published: 2025-08-26

Parliament is advancing amendments to Mongolia’s tax package that would treat rents and informal sales (e.g., meat and dairy sold directly) as VAT-inclusive prices, effectively pulling landlords and street vendors into the VAT net. Consumers would receive VAT receipts, enabling full VAT refunds under the revised system, while long-standing VAT exemptions for strategic goods like meat and milk would end, with only a few sectors—such as health and education—remaining exempt. The sponsor argues this shifts compliance to the point of sale without adding pressure on firms, as VAT is borne by end consumers, and could broaden income tax compliance among multi-property owners and informal sellers via receipt issuance.

"People who earn passive income from renting apartments or sell goods like meat and milk directly will have their sales treated as VAT-inclusive prices, and they must issue VAT receipts so consumers can obtain a 100% refund." - MP Kh. Gankhuyag (ikon.mn)

"We will stop exempting strategic products like meat and milk from VAT, keeping exemptions only for 3–4 areas such as health and education. Everyone will become a VAT payer." - MP Kh. Gankhuyag (ikon.mn)

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Tourism Shifts Toward Cooler Destinations as Heatwaves Create Openings for Mongolia’s Winter Offerings

Published: 2025-08-26

A global pivot toward cooler travel destinations is emerging as extreme heat disrupts traditional summer tourism markets, with industry experts warning that climate change is already altering demand. The sector accounts for about 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions and could rise by 25% by 2030, putting heat-exposed hotspots—such as African safaris, Thailand’s Maya Bay, Malaysia’s Sipadan, and the Philippines’ Boracay—at greater risk. Mongolia is positioned to capitalize by expanding winter and shoulder-season products. Despite a 2023–2025 campaign to boost arrivals, visitors may not exceed 650,000 in this period, and winter offerings remain limited beyond events like the Ice and Eagles Festivals. Developing activities such as dog sledding, ice fishing, snow-steppe camping, Lunar New Year experiences, and compact winter games could extend the season and diversify the economy, leveraging the country’s naturally cool climate.

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Task Force Weighs Specialized Housing Finance Bank as Experts Warn of Supply-Side Reforms Needed

Published: 2025-08-26

Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar has ordered a task force to design a nationwide affordable housing program and study creating a specialized Housing Finance Bank, seeking legal reforms, market coordination, and foreign funding. The group is led by Economic Development Minister N. Uchral, with finance and cabinet officials. Analysts caution a new state lender focusing on subsidized mortgages could intensify price pressures without unlocking supply, noting home prices have risen over 140% in 12 years while access deteriorated. Mongolia’s mortgage system has issued MNT 9.2 trillion to ~132,000 borrowers since 2013, supported by MIK securitizations, but long waitlists persist and long-term funding remains shallow. Experts urge easing supply constraints, improving cost indices, and prioritizing redevelopment over demand-side subsidies to improve affordability.

"Government ‘temporary’ programs tend to become permanent; affordability worsens when subsidized mortgages boost demand where supply is constrained." - D. Gan-Ochir, economist (unuudur.mn)

"We are increasingly focused on sourcing foreign funding to expand mortgage finance." - B. Gantulga, CEO, MIK Holding (unuudur.mn)

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Invescore Secures $20 Million Long-Term Loan from Dutch Development Agency to Expand SME Financing

Published: 2025-08-26

Invescore NBFI announced a $20 million long-term debt facility from the Netherlands’ development agency, intended to scale lending to small and medium-sized enterprises across Mongolia. The company plans to allocate 10% of the funding to green and sustainable business activities, as well as to support regional traders, service providers, and women entrepreneurs—aligning with donor priorities in inclusive and climate-focused finance. The Dutch agency, active in 85 countries with €13 billion in commitments, concentrates on agriculture, energy, and financial sectors to foster private-sector growth in emerging markets. The move follows a similar-sized 2024 loan to Bogd Bank, targeting women-led businesses and green initiatives, signaling sustained international development finance engagement in Mongolia’s financial sector and broader SME ecosystem.

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Diplomacy

Gazprom Signs Memorandum to Explore Oil and Gas Cooperation with Government

Published: 2025-08-26

Russia’s Gazprom delegation, led by Board Chairman Alexey Miller, paid a working visit and signed a memorandum of understanding with the government to cooperate in oil and natural gas. Deputy Prime Minister S. Amarsaikhan signed on behalf of the government, while Miller signed for Gazprom, following meetings with President U. Khurelsukh and Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar. The MoU signals intent to assess collaboration in upstream and potentially midstream segments, though no project details, timelines, or financing terms were released. Engagement with Gazprom aligns with regional energy linkages and could influence fuel supply security, pricing dynamics, and future gas infrastructure planning. Further announcements will clarify whether cooperation focuses on exploration, refining, or pipeline options and how it intersects with existing fuel import dependencies and diversification efforts.

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Foreign Ministers Discuss Deepening Japan–Mongolia Special Strategic Partnership During Women’s Leadership Forum

Published: 2025-08-26

Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg met Japan’s Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Ikuiina Akiko in Ulaanbaatar on August 25 on the sidelines of the World Women Entrepreneurs Forum. The two sides reaffirmed plans to deepen the Special Strategic Partnership, strengthen political and strategic consultation mechanisms, and advance projects supporting Mongolia’s socio-economic development and human capital. Battsetseg highlighted 2025 as a landmark year following the first-ever state visit to Mongolia by the Emperor and Empress of Japan, which she said has solidified a “people-centered” partnership focused on peace and prosperity. Ikuiina praised Mongolia’s initiatives on gender equality and women’s participation in peace and security, noting continued engagement after Battsetseg’s March visit to Tokyo and a UNU co-hosted symposium on feminist foreign policy.

"Mongolia is taking concrete measures to advance gender equality and increase women’s participation in peace and security." - Vice Minister Akiko Ikuiina (unuudur.mn)

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Infrastructure

Odd–Even License Plate Traffic Restrictions Start Aug 27 Across Central Ulaanbaatar

Published: 2025-08-26

Ulaanbaatar will reintroduce odd–even license plate restrictions from Aug 27 to Sep 16, operating 08:00–20:00 across the six central districts without zonal exemptions. All vehicles may circulate on Sep 1. Cars with odd-numbered final digits can drive on Aug 27, 29, 31 and Sep 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15; even-numbered plates on Aug 28, 30 and Sep 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16. City authorities say a public poll of 12,265 respondents showed 58% support for the measure, introduced to manage back-to-school congestion and reduce gridlock. Exemptions apply to public transport, compliant taxis, certain logistics, utilities, diplomatic and media vehicles, and organized staff shuttles. Enforcement will be led by traffic police near schools and major roads.

"On odd days, only vehicles ending with odd numbers may operate; on even days, only even-numbered plates may operate." - D. Badarsan, Ulaanbaatar Traffic Congestion Program Coordinator (news.mn)

"Traffic intensity rises every new school year, and this year the restriction applies citywide without zones." - Lt. Col. G. Otgontamir, Traffic Police Preventive Division (news.mn)

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Border Post Schedule Set for September: Limited Openings at Baytag and Dayan, Others Operate Normally

Published: 2025-08-26

Mongolia’s General Authority for Border Protection released operating hours for border checkpoints in September 2025. Overland traffic at the Mongolia–China crossings Baytag and Dayan will be limited: Baytag will open from September 15–30, and Dayan from September 15–25. All other road, air, and rail crossings are expected to run under their standard schedules. For logistics planning and cross-border trade, the narrowed windows at Baytag and Dayan may compress trucking flows into mid-to-late September, while major gateways and rail corridors remain unaffected. No official provided on-record commentary in the coverage, and detailed daily timetables were not disclosed in the summaries. Businesses moving goods via western routes should align dispatch and customs arrangements with the specified windows and confirm exact hours with local border authorities.

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Ulaanbaatar Signs EPC+F Contract to Build 24 MW Plant and Wastewater Facility for Emeelt Eco-Industrial Park

Published: 2025-08-26

"A project discussed since 2009 is finally nearing real implementation." - B. Myagmar, CEO, Emeelt Eco-Industrial Park JSC (montsame.mn)

Ulaanbaatar signed an EPC+F contract with China’s Hua Zi Technology and Hua Shi Energy Industry to construct a 24 MW thermal power plant and a 6,700 m3/day wastewater treatment facility supporting the planned Emeelt Eco-Industrial Park, 30 km southwest of the city center in Khan-Uul District. The contractors, with 30 years’ experience in 70+ countries, will begin construction in early 2026 and complete by 2027. The power plant is designed to produce 156 million kWh of electricity and 265,600 G.cal of heat annually. The 539-hectare park targets value-added processing of hides, wool, cashmere, meat and by-products, with capacity to handle 43.5% of national raw materials, create about 5,600 jobs, and generate MNT 1.72 trillion in revenue, repaying investment in 6.7 years while aiming to reduce pollution and modernize industry.

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Zero-Carbon Industrial Park Proposed for Sukhbaatar with 3.5 Mt Aluminum Capacity

Published: 2025-08-26

Mongolia’s Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources G. Damdinyam met with representatives of China’s Zero Carbon Engine Technology Group to review a proposal to build a benchmark industrial complex in Sukhbaatar Province. Drawing on Houlind Goal’s coal-based industrial model, the plan envisions a “zero-carbon” park anchored by aluminum production capacity of 3.5 million tons per year. The complex would integrate a renewable power plant, an energy storage system, and a thermal power station to ensure stable electricity supply for aluminum smelting and downstream processing. The ministry signaled policy support, highlighting the project’s scale, technology needs, and investment intensity for Mongolia’s industrialization.

"Establishing an industrial park is essential for Mongolia and is a large-scale endeavor requiring time, technology, and significant investment; the ministry will support project implementation." - Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources G. Damdinyam (montsame.mn)

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‘Selbe 20-Minute City’ Moves Forward with 68 m² Average Apartments and Infrastructure Commitments

Published: 2025-08-26

Ulaanbaatar’s planned ‘Selbe 20-Minute City’ will rise across 158 hectares in Chingeltei and Sukhbaatar districts, with 40 hectares developed via a public–private partnership. Housing units are planned at an average 68 m², and the clearance of more than 2,200 plots is reportedly 93% complete. Project leaders held an investor briefing with construction, banking, and business representatives, fielding questions on land acquisition, green space, and flood mitigation. The developer emphasized major water and drainage works, citing Asian Development Bank-backed trunk lines and budgeted expansion of flood embankments along the Selbe River.

"We are taking water issues seriously... embankment and drainage works are planned to a high standard." - U. Baatar, CEO, Selbe 20 Minute City Corporation (montsame.mn)

"We will partner with the private sector to establish the 20-minute city concept quickly, adhering to business principles for mutually beneficial, swift execution." - U. Baatar, CEO, Selbe 20 Minute City Corporation (montsame.mn)

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Industrial Park Planned at Khutul Cement Complex with South Korean Partnership

Published: 2025-08-26

Selenge Province signed an MoU with South Korea’s Carbon Neutral Industrial Complex Planning Center to develop an industrial park anchored by Khutul’s Khötiin “Tsement shokhoi” JSC. The plan envisages a 30 MW thermal power plant and a 10 MW solar facility in Saikhan soum, aiming to stabilize local heat and electricity supply, store excess heat, produce biofuel from agricultural feedstock, and reduce coal consumption. A Korean delegation conducted drone-based assessments at the cement plant, highlighting health risks from current greenhouse gas and CO2 emissions. Provincial leaders intend to leverage the plant to build a value-added construction materials hub and designate Saikhan as an industrial city. The project’s design targets improved environmental performance and safer conditions for workers and nearby residents.

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Society

City Auctions Reclaimed Assets to Equip Schools and Kindergartens Before New Term

Published: 2025-08-26

Ulaanbaatar authorities are monetizing long-lost municipal assets to fund education facilities and equipment ahead of the school year. The city recovered a 3,150 sq m former pharmaceutical plant site near Dashchoilin Monastery and sold it via auction to Ekhlel Brand LLC for MNT 9.3 billion, enabling completion of 15 stalled school and kindergarten buildings. A separate property in Bayangol District’s 14th khoroo fetched MNT 1.6 billion from Vireo Üsrelt LLC, earmarked for desks, chairs, soft furnishings, and equipment. Officials say 17 schools and 20 kindergartens—serving over 15,000 children—still lack furniture to open.

"We will allocate proceeds from reclaimed assets to the furniture and equipment these schools and kindergartens need, and continue taking back abandoned municipal buildings," - D. Amgalan, Head of the Ulaanbaatar Mayor’s Office (gogo.mn)

The Education Ministry notes procurement for state-funded projects continues under budget rules, while city- and district-funded sites are under municipal responsibility.

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Police Probe 22 Fraud Cases Over Fake Visa and University Placement Ads

Published: 2025-08-26

Mongolian police report 22 fraud cases in the first seven months of 2025 involving ads promising visa issuance and placement at foreign universities. Scammers target families seeking study or migration options abroad, soliciting upfront payments and posing as legitimate intermediaries. Authorities emphasize that visas are only issued through official consulates and embassies, urging the public to verify whether agencies have formal programs, avoid dealing with individuals, and refuse prepayments. The advisory underscores persistent demand for overseas education and travel services—creating openings for fraud—and signals stepped-up enforcement. Prospective students and migrants should cross-check organizations against host-country embassy listings and rely on direct institutional channels to reduce risk. No arrests or losses were detailed, but investigations are ongoing, indicating active monitoring of education- and migration-related scams.

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Tuition Hikes and Rent Spikes Squeeze Students in Ulaanbaatar

Published: 2025-08-26

Universities in Ulaanbaatar are reopening with sharply higher costs, intensifying financial pressure on students. Rents near campuses peak in August, with one-room apartments at MNT 1.0–1.5 million, two-rooms at MNT 1.5–3.2 million, and shared rooms at MNT 700,000–900,000. Student dorms remain cheaper but scarce, pushing many to the private market and to pay multi-month deposits. Tuition fees have also risen: at MUST (ShUTIS), average credit pricing is around MNT 185,600–190,000 for continuing students, and up to MNT 228,000 for certain tracks; at NUM (MUIS), general education credits are MNT 154,000 and major credits MNT 154,700–178,500. Students report sudden fee increases and limited dorm access affecting budgets and work plans.

"NUM’s professional course fees jumped to about MNT 170,000 per credit. They say fees won’t rise, but they do—this is really hard on us." - J. Maral, NUM second-year student (news.mn)

"I planned to cover tuition with money earned in South Korea, but fortunately I received a scholarship. Dorm availability still feels inadequate." - J. Maral, NUM second-year student (news.mn)

"MUST raised tuition without prior notice. I arrived to pay and the amount was higher—now a year costs MNT 7–8 million." - A., MUST third-year student (news.mn)

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Police Warn of Rental Scams as New School Term Nears; Young Adults Predominate Among Suspects

Published: 2025-08-26

Mongolia’s National Police Agency issued a public warning on August 26 about a rise in apartment rental fraud circulating online as the school year begins, a period when housing demand spikes. Investigators say scammers repost genuine “for sale” or “for rent” listings as their own, pressure would‑be tenants to act quickly without contracts, and request payments upfront. A review of 143 recent online ads found over 30% showed deceptive or fraudulent characteristics, with inquiries and probes ongoing. Authorities added that suspects are largely between 18 and 35 years old. The briefing also highlighted child safety after five fatalities from balcony or window falls this year, often when children were left unattended.

"Fraudsters are uploading home sale or rental information as if it were their own and rushing people into deals without contracts." - E. Enkhzaya, Senior Specialist, Prevention Department, National Police Agency (news.mn)

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Environment

UNICEF Partners with Ulaanbaatar to Insulate 1,385 Gers and Shift Households Toward Gas Heating

Published: 2025-08-26

Ulaanbaatar’s city administration signed a cooperation agreement with UNICEF and state-owned Tavantolgoi Tulsh to scale up household insulation and transition ger-area heating away from coal. The plan targets insulation for about 5,000 households this year, with 1,385 traditional ger homes to receive UNICEF’s CHIP “insulation, heating, and ventilation” package by September 30, alongside training and safety standards support for gas-based systems. The city also aims to replace raw coal with semi-coke and expand LNG-based decentralized heating to cut winter smog that disproportionately harms children. UNICEF will assess the impact of fuel switching, run public education on safe gas use, and conduct baseline household pollution studies.

"From this year, about 5,000 households will be insulated to standard and then moved to gas; 1,385 ger households will join the CHIP program." - Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar (gogo.mn)

"Air pollution harms children and women; protecting a child’s health protects a person for life." - Evariste Kouassi Komlan, UNICEF Representative (itoim.mn)

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Automated Air-Quality Station Installed in Zuunmod to Enable Continuous Monitoring

Published: 2025-08-26

Tuv Province’s Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring Center has commissioned an automated air-quality station in Zuunmod, shifting from manual sampling three times daily to continuous measurement. The station tracks sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and PM2.5 concentrations, providing higher-resolution data for public health advisories and policy planning. The installation is part of a nationwide project to deploy automated monitoring stations in Ulaanbaatar and all 21 provinces under a Mongolia–South Korea government agreement, funded at $8 million (about MNT 280 billion). The Zuunmod unit, worth roughly MNT 600 million, is expected to support evidence-based air-quality management ahead of the winter heating season. No official statements or comments were quoted in the report.

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Real-time River Level and Flow Sensors Deployed on 17 Major Waterways

Published: 2025-08-26

The National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring has begun installing Austrian-made RQ-30 sensors to measure water levels and flow rates at 17 river sites, including the Üür, Kharaa, Onon, Orkhon, Tüi, Bogd, Ider, Selenge, and Khovd. The devices transmit high-precision measurements in near real time, supporting more accurate flood risk assessment, improved water-resource management, and more robust data for environmental and water-sector project planning. The initiative aligns with guidance from the World Meteorological Organization and the UN to strengthen early warning systems and disaster risk reduction. According to the agency, these are the first online-operating instruments of their kind in Mongolia’s surface water network. Software training for the system has been provided to surface water engineers in Ulaanbaatar and nine provinces, indicating plans for broader operational integration and data standardization across regions.

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Wheat Harvest Starts in Selenge as Drought Cuts Output Expectations

Published: 2025-08-26

Mongolia’s 2025 wheat harvest has begun in Yeröö soum of Selenge province, according to the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry. The season follows a dry, hot year across key crop regions, where low rainfall and heat created drought conditions and operational challenges for growers. Despite weather stress, producers leveraged experience and available machinery to initiate harvesting at a “proper level,” the ministry noted. Preliminary balance estimates indicate domestic production could cover about 70% of national food wheat demand in 2025, implying continued reliance on imports to bridge the gap. This outlook suggests potential pressure on prices, logistics, and state grain reserve planning through the marketing year, with procurement and milling sectors likely to adjust sourcing strategies depending on final yields and quality assessments.

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Bayankhongor Prepares for Harsh Winter as Bayan-Ölgii Reports Severe Drought and Forage Shortfall

Published: 2025-08-26

Bayan-Ölgii faces an acute feed deficit after a dry summer left roughly 85% of pasturelands parched, according to provincial agriculture chief B. Nurgulan. The province expects 2.8 million head to overwinter, with only about 40,000 tons of natural hay likely to be harvested—well below the 58,000–64,000-ton norm. Authorities estimate 473,000 tons of hay and 118,000 tons of feed are needed to minimize losses and are coordinating domestic purchases and potential imports from neighboring Russian regions. Risk assessments rate 54 of 99 baghs at high risk of dzud. Nurgulan said private firms would import fodder under government-facilitated agreements, while herd reductions via expanded slaughter and market supply are planned, leveraging six local meat plants’ capacity.

"We are discussing importing hay from adjacent regions of Russia and will enable private companies to bring it in through agreements made via state counterparts." - B. Nurgulan, head of Bayan-Ölgii Food and Agriculture Department (montsame.mn)

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Heavy Rains Elevate Flood Risk as Bayangol-Onjuul Logs 75 mm in a Week

Published: 2025-08-26

Widespread rainfall last week lifted water levels across Mongolia’s rivers and lakes, triggering floods in some areas. Weekly totals reached 75 mm in Töv Province’s Bayang-Önjüül, 73.4 mm in Selenge’s Yeröö, and 63–63.2 mm in Mandal and Bugant. Several districts—including Lun and Bornuur (Töv), Darkhan and Sharyn Gol (Darkhan-Uul), Bayangol (Selenge), Khürmen (Ömnögovi), and Ulaanbaatar’s Bayanzürkh, Sukhbaatar, and Nalaikh—recorded 51–59.9 mm, with 1–48.4 mm elsewhere. The 2024 national average has reached 280.6 mm—sixth wettest in 85 years—while Bayang-Önjüül alone received 26.7% of that average in one week. Forecasters expect thunderstorms, heavy showers, and hail today in parts of the west, north of the east, and much of the central region, expanding tomorrow and the following day to northern western and central provinces and the eastern Gobi. Authorities advise travelers, herders, and farmers in river basins to prepare for flash floods.

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Innovation

Joint Rare Metals Research Center Set for November Launch with Korean Grant Support

Published: 2025-08-26

Mongolia and South Korea plan to open a joint rare metals research center in November, backed by a grant from the Korean government. The facility, anchored at the state-owned Geological Research and Testing Center (TÖÜG), will focus on pilot-scale beneficiation technologies for rare earths and other rare metals, localizing South Korean processing methods through a new laboratory. The project also targets workforce development and matchmaking between Mongolian and Korean firms for downstream collaboration. The Korean Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM) is the implementing partner, following meetings in Ulaanbaatar with B. Dashpurev, State Secretary of the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources. The center is positioned to advance Mongolia’s move up the value chain in critical minerals and diversify export capabilities beyond raw ore, potentially aligning with regional supply chain strategies.

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Health

Drug Suppliers Warn of Suspension for Non‑Emergency Deliveries as Hospital Debts Mount

Published: 2025-08-26

Mongolia’s consolidated pharmaceutical association, the “Em” Union, announced it will halt deliveries of medicines and medical devices to public hospitals except for emergency and life‑saving needs. Suppliers cite prolonged nonpayment by state and local health facilities and increased 2025 procurement prices, saying receivables now equal about 40% of sector working capital—threatening stability and causing product shortages. The group says repeated formal notices to Parliament, the Government, the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Health have not resolved arrears. If unpaid balances persist, hospitals could face broader supply gaps and treatment delays, particularly for routine and elective care, while suppliers warn they cannot assume liability for resulting impacts without settlement of debts.

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70 Drown Nationwide Since January as Authorities Warn Against Unsafe River Recreation

Published: 2025-08-26

Mongolia’s emergency agency reports 87 water-related incident calls and 70 deaths through July 25, including 20 children. Rescuers attribute many child fatalities to use of non-purpose-built inflatable mattresses, boats, and tubes, as well as unsafe behavior like pushing peers into rivers. Officials urge avoiding strong currents and unfamiliar or murky waters where hidden rocks and whirlpools pose risks, and caution that cold water can impair movement and cause muscle rigidity. Guidance emphasizes using reach-and-throw methods—such as long branches, ropes, or floatation aids—rather than entering the water to rescue someone, and calling the emergency number 105 immediately. Authorities also stress that pool swimming skills do not translate directly to open-water conditions and advise notifying family when traveling near rivers and following official safety instructions.

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