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Mongolia — Daily

Mongolia Daily: MIAT Tightens Safety, Coal Sales Surge, and Measles Cases Climb

,   and  Lexica
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Politics

Public Input Shapes 2026 Budget Priorities as Calls for Transparency Grow

Published: 2025-08-12

Mongolia's government is developing the 2026 state budget with unprecedented public participation, collecting over 154,000 citizen responses via E-Mongolia and the 11-11 hotline. The majority of feedback prioritizes increased investment in education, healthcare, and utilities, while suggesting cuts to social welfare, culture, sports, tourism, and infrastructure. Over 102,000 respondents advocate for lower tax rates, and nearly 18,400 support curbing budget expansion. The Ministry of Finance is reviewing 1,232 investment proposals, aiming to limit total spending to 9.6 trillion MNT. Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar emphasized the importance of transparency in the budget process, stating:

"Open public discussion of the budget draft is crucial for reducing corruption, ensuring proper allocation of investments, and supporting human development." - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (montsame.mn)

Meanwhile, scrutiny is increasing over the growing budget of the President's Office and the lack of oversight on presidential initiatives, with calls for risk audits and improved financial controls. These developments signal a shift toward greater fiscal accountability and public engagement in Mongolia's budget process.

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Parliament Enacts Comprehensive Ban on Paid Betting and Online Gambling

Published: 2025-08-12

The State Great Khural has passed amendments to the Law on Licensing, instituting a complete ban on all forms of paid betting, wagering, and online gambling activities. Under the new legislation, organizing such activities—whether in public spaces or via information technology for profit—will now be prosecuted as a criminal offense. Penalties include fines ranging from 2,700 to 14,000 units of currency, community service, travel restrictions, or imprisonment for up to three years, depending on the severity and recurrence of the offense. The law also criminalizes the repeated use of personal or third-party financial accounts, e-money, virtual assets, or telecom identifiers for gambling operations. Advertising or promoting these activities is now subject to administrative penalties, and related tax provisions have been annulled. The new regulations will be enforced under standard legal procedures, as confirmed by the Parliament’s Press Office.

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Budget Cuts Threaten Energy, Mining, and Youth Initiatives as Stakeholders Raise Concerns

Published: 2025-08-12

Mongolia's 2026 draft budget has sparked concern across key sectors, with significant reductions proposed for geological research, energy infrastructure, and youth development programs. Experts warn that slashing the geological survey budget from ₮42 billion to ₮10.3 billion could undermine future mining investment and resource mapping. In the energy sector, outdated power plants face critical maintenance issues, exacerbated by a lack of spare parts and insufficient funding.

"When we try to buy spare parts for the power stations, the Russians mock us, saying they no longer manufacture them. We end up paying three times more for outdated components, and if we don't modernize these stations, we risk severe losses and even outages in winter." - B. Ganbaatar, Director of Erchim Mash LLC (gogo.mn)

Meanwhile, youth and sports funding is set to halve, limiting support for regional development and social programs. Healthcare representatives also highlighted that current per capita diagnostic funding is inadequate for comprehensive care. The government is soliciting public input on the budget, but sector leaders stress that underfunding critical infrastructure and services could have long-term economic and social consequences.

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Public Consultation Begins on 2026 Justice Sector Budget Proposal

Published: 2025-08-12

A public consultation has commenced for the draft 2026 budget of Mongolia's Ministry of Justice and Internal Affairs. The process aims to gather input from citizens and stakeholders on funding priorities and allocations for the justice sector. This participatory approach reflects ongoing efforts to increase transparency and public engagement in government budgeting. The consultation is expected to inform final budget decisions, with authorities seeking to align sectoral funding with national legal and security objectives. The outcome will influence resource distribution for law enforcement, judicial reforms, and public safety initiatives in the coming years.

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Economy

Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi Sells 134,400 Tons of Coal via Stock Exchange Auctions

Published: 2025-08-12

Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC completed four successful coal auctions through the Mongolian Stock Exchange, selling a total of 134,400 tons of coal—including washed coking coal, 1/3 coking coal, and thermal coal—to be delivered to China’s Gantsmod border port. The auctions saw competitive bidding, with the price of washed coking coal rising by 11.5% to $133.4 per ton. The company also secured deals for 1/3 coking coal at $66.4 per ton and thermal coal at $39.0 per ton. These transactions are part of a broader effort to boost coal sales and trading activity. Since the imposition of a special trading regime one month ago, Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi has conducted 16 auctions, selling 774,400 tons of coal valued at $45.9 million. This reflects a strategic push to increase transparency and efficiency in Mongolia’s coal export sector.

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Trade Turnover Reaches $14.2 Billion as Export Declines Offset Import Growth

Published: 2025-08-12

In the first seven months of 2025, total trade turnover reached $14.2 billion, involving transactions with 152 countries. Exports accounted for $7.8 billion and imports for $6.5 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of $1.3 billion. However, compared to the previous year, overall trade turnover decreased by $1.4 billion, with exports falling by $1.5 billion and the trade surplus narrowing by $1.6 billion, while imports rose by $68.9 million. The decline in exports was primarily driven by significant drops in coal (down $2.4 billion), washed cashmere ($200.2 million), crude oil ($35.5 million), sheep and goat meat ($25.9 million), and iron ore and concentrates ($15.5 million). Conversely, exports of copper ore and concentrates increased by $1.1 billion, combed animal hair by $42.6 million, and zinc ore and concentrates by $31.4 million. These shifts reflect ongoing volatility in commodity markets and changing demand for Mongolia's key export products.

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Customs Agencies Seek Unified Classification for Tech Imports

Published: 2025-08-12

Mongolia and South Korea are collaborating to resolve challenges in the unified classification of information and communication technology (ICT) goods imported from South Korea. During a recent meeting in Ulaanbaatar, senior customs officials from both countries discussed the complexities arising from tariff differences and the intricate structure of ICT products. The talks focused on aligning classification practices with international conventions to facilitate accurate and consistent customs procedures, a move expected to streamline foreign trade. Both sides also explored the adoption of big data and artificial intelligence-based classification methods, as well as strengthening human resource capacity through joint efforts. At the conclusion of the meeting, Jae Young Choi, Director of the Customs and Tariff Bureau at South Korea’s Ministry of Economy and Finance, expressed confidence in the ongoing partnership, stating:

"I am confident that the friendly relations and active cooperation between our customs agencies will continue to grow." - Jae Young Choi (montsame.mn)

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Development Bank to Fund Only Parliament-Approved Projects Under New Mandate

Published: 2025-08-12

Mongolia's Development Bank will now finance only large-scale projects that have been approved by the State Great Khural (Parliament), as part of a broader effort to transform the institution into an export-import bank. The First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development, N. Uchral, outlined several priorities for the bank, including improving the recovery of non-performing loans, ending temporary financing that competes with commercial banks, and increasing transparency in operations and project selection. He emphasized the need to strengthen governance and reduce political influence through open recruitment processes. Legal reforms are planned, with public input sought for drafting new legislation to support these changes. This shift aims to ensure that the bank's activities contribute more effectively to Mongolia's economic development and align with government priorities.

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Policy Reforms Proposed to Ease Tax Burden on Processing Plants

Published: 2025-08-12

A new legislative push seeks to amend the Mineral Product Exchange Law to address the financial strain on Mongolia's mineral processing sector. The current system imposes double royalty payments (AMNAT) on processed minerals, discouraging investment and forcing many plants to close. The Ministry of Mining and Heavy Industry is reviewing on-site operations and considering changes to support domestic value addition and restore investor confidence. The article highlights that, due to the dual royalty system, "several thousand jobs have been lost and companies have closed due to large debts to banks." The proposed reforms aim to align Mongolia's tax practices with international standards, where royalties are typically levied only once at extraction, not again after processing. The changes are expected to improve competitiveness, attract foreign investment, and support the government's goal of boosting value-added exports. The outcome of these reforms will be closely watched by industry stakeholders.

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LendDy Launches to Boost SME Sales with Flexible Payment Options

Published: 2025-08-12

LendMN has officially launched LendDy, a new service aimed at supporting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Mongolia by providing flexible payment solutions to customers. Through LendDy, businesses can offer products and services valued at over 1,000 MNT to LendMN’s network of more than 250,000 users without requiring upfront payments, interest, or service fees for buyers. The platform enables immediate transfer of sales revenue to the seller’s account, which is expected to improve cash flow and competitiveness for SMEs. Registration is streamlined, allowing businesses to sign up and begin selling within five minutes via the LendMN app. The service charges a low transaction fee of 3.9% and offers full mobile management of transactions and income. This development reflects ongoing efforts to digitize and modernize business operations for Mongolia’s SME sector.

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PayOn Launches Rapid Business Loan Service for SMEs and Startups

Published: 2025-08-12

PayOn has introduced a new rapid business loan product aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), service providers, seasonal traders, and startups in Mongolia. The service offers flexible loan conditions, allowing applicants to combine various income sources such as salary, livestock, or business revenue. Loan decisions are made quickly—within five minutes for salary or livestock income, and four hours for business income—without requiring collateral. Applications can be submitted online, eliminating the need for in-person visits. The maximum loan amount is 50 million MNT with terms up to 48 months. The product is designed to address urgent financial needs such as working capital, equipment purchases, or business expansion, providing a streamlined solution for active businesses seeking fast financing. No direct quotes from named individuals were present in the article.

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PC mall Launches Nationwide Back To School Promotion with Discounts and Bundled Offers

Published: 2025-08-12

PC mall has announced its annual Back To School campaign, offering significant discounts and bundled gifts on a wide range of electronics, including laptops, smartphones, and printers, across all its branches and online store in Mongolia. The promotion features official products from leading global brands such as Dell, Apple, Asus, Acer, HP, Lenovo, and Thuderobot, with special financing options available—monthly payments range from 78,947₮ to 371,192₮ depending on the product. Students and professionals can benefit from bundled gifts, including accessories and discounted devices, as well as exclusive deals on smartphones from Apple, Samsung, Huawei, and Honor. The campaign aims to support the start of the academic year by making essential technology more accessible. The promotion is valid nationwide and online, reflecting the retailer’s strategy to capture seasonal demand and cater to both educational and professional needs.

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Infrastructure

Underground Cabling Project Set to Streamline Ulaanbaatar Infrastructure

Published: 2025-08-12

Authorities in Ulaanbaatar have launched a coordinated initiative to relocate overhead cables from streetlight poles and building rooftops into underground ducts, aiming to improve urban aesthetics and infrastructure reliability. The Ministry of Digital Development and Communications, together with city officials, agreed to complete unfinished ductwork along main roads and develop new legal standards for aerial cabling. A joint working group will oversee the phased transition, which includes removing unused cables and organizing those strung haphazardly between buildings. The project marks the first major expansion of underground cabling since 1996, with 22.9 km of new ducts planned to coincide with sidewalk renovations. N. Naranbaatar, head of performance and quality at the Information and Communications Network Company, explained,

"This project will move 22.9 km of exposed cables underground, significantly improving the city’s appearance and infrastructure." - N. Naranbaatar, Information and Communications Network Company (urug.mn)

Completion of key sidewalk and ductwork sections is targeted for early September.

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City Road Repairs Set to Finish Before School Year, Long-Term Upgrades Planned

Published: 2025-08-12

Ulaanbaatar's major road repair projects funded by the city budget are scheduled for completion by August 20, ahead of the new academic year. However, work on the First District's rear road, financed by the World Bank, will continue beyond this date. City Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar outlined a long-term strategy, stating that after next year's upgrades at ten key locations—including Songinokhairkhan, Gachuurt, and Gakhain—no further major roadworks are planned for the next 7-8 years.

"By August 20, all road repairs and upgrades funded by the city budget will be completed. Next year, after renewing roads at ten sites, we do not plan to touch Ulaanbaatar's roads for 7-8 years." - Kh. Nyambaatar, City Mayor (ikon.mn)

The city has already completed 100.9 km of road upgrades at 34 sites this year, with work ongoing at 10 more locations. Pedestrian walkway improvements will continue until October. These developments aim to minimize future disruptions and improve urban mobility.

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Direct US Flight Route Nears Approval as MIAT Expands International Network

Published: 2025-08-12

MIAT, Mongolia's national airline, is preparing to launch direct flights to the United States, pending final regulatory approval. The company has already completed its internal preparations, and the Civil Aviation Authority of Mongolia is currently undergoing assessment by US aviation authorities. If Mongolia attains Category 1 status, direct flights to the US will become possible. MIAT CEO B. Munkhtamir highlighted the favorable conditions created by reduced US-China flight frequencies, stating:

"If we open the direct flight route to America at this time, the most favorable conditions have been created." - B. Munkhtamir, CEO (ikon.mn)

MIAT has also recently expanded routes to Shanghai and plans to launch regular flights to Singapore in November. The airline's fleet has grown from four to ten aircraft since 2023, reflecting its broader international ambitions. The company is also navigating potential changes in ownership structure, as the government considers making state-owned enterprises more transparent and possibly open to public investment.

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Incomplete Urban Projects Raise Safety and Transparency Concerns in Ulaanbaatar

Published: 2025-08-12

Recent urban development initiatives in Ulaanbaatar have drawn criticism for being declared complete before actual completion, raising questions about transparency and public safety. Investigations into the redevelopment of "Urt Tsagaan" and the new extreme sports park in Bayanzurkh District revealed that, despite official announcements, several facilities remain unfinished and construction materials are left exposed. While city authorities reported the sports park as finished in April, local officials later clarified, "It is not fully operational yet. We will inform you once it is open for use. Hopefully, it will be soon," according to a Bayanzurkh District media representative. The lack of clear communication and incomplete infrastructure, especially with children playing in partially finished areas, highlights ongoing risks and the need for improved project management and accountability in public works.

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Road Access to Bayan-Uul Temporarily Closed After Heavy Rain Damages Key Route

Published: 2025-08-12

Authorities in Dornod province have temporarily closed road access to and from Bayan-Uul soum following significant damage to a key improved dirt road section caused by persistent heavy rainfall on August 11. The affected area, known as "Khuurai Khundii," is located approximately 8 kilometers from Bayan-Uul towards the provincial center, where about four meters of the road were compromised. Local government officials and emergency services assessed the situation on-site and decided to halt traffic until repairs are completed. Joint teams from Dornod Autozam and Chandmani Tal LLC are currently working to restore the damaged section. Residents and travelers are advised to avoid the route until further notice. The closure underscores the vulnerability of regional infrastructure to extreme weather events, which can disrupt mobility and logistics in eastern Mongolia.

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City Districts Receive Funding Boost for Local Infrastructure Projects

Published: 2025-08-12

Each of Ulaanbaatar’s 204 districts has been allocated 50 million MNT for local improvement projects, following a directive from the city governor. The funding aims to address pressing community needs, with district governors empowered to prioritize and implement upgrades such as children’s playgrounds, pedestrian walkways, and fencing. In Baganuur district, for example, 90% of planned works—including sidewalk repairs, parking lot enhancements, and improved lighting near schools—have been completed. The initiative is part of a broader effort to coordinate responsibilities across city, district, and neighborhood levels, with quarterly meetings between governors to ensure accountability and progress. This decentralized approach is designed to enable faster, more responsive solutions to local infrastructure challenges.

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Land Clearance Begins for Tuul River Expressway Project in Ulaanbaatar

Published: 2025-08-12

Authorities in Ulaanbaatar have commenced the initial phase of land clearance for the Tuul River expressway, a major infrastructure project set to improve traffic flow in the capital. The first 15 land plots in Songinokhairkhan district have been cleared, part of a broader effort affecting 132 plots across four districts. The six-lane expressway will feature multi-level intersections and tunnels at key points, with completion targeted for August 2028. The project is expected to increase average traffic speeds by 13.5%. In parallel, significant land clearance is ongoing for housing, schools, and other public infrastructure, with over 3,100 plots affected citywide. These developments reflect Ulaanbaatar’s push to modernize urban infrastructure and address congestion as the city expands.

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Major Road Closures Announced for Dorj Street Renovation in Ulaanbaatar

Published: 2025-08-12

Authorities in Ulaanbaatar have announced the closure of the road section from Monel intersection to the Caiz Market intersection on Dorj Street for repairs and upgrades. The closure will begin at 23:00 on August 13 and is scheduled to last until 06:00 on August 16, during which time asphalt resurfacing and road marking works will be carried out. The city’s Road Development Agency also reported that the east lane between the "Big" shopping center and Sapporo intersection is currently closed for repairs, with traffic rerouted to the west lane in the opposite direction until August 14. These works are part of a broader initiative to upgrade 44 road locations in the capital this year, with 34 sites and over 100 km already completed. The ongoing construction is expected to impact traffic flow in key commercial and residential areas, underscoring the city’s efforts to modernize its infrastructure.

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Scheduled Power Outages Set for Ulaanbaatar and Tuv Province on August 13

Published: 2025-08-12

On August 13, electricity supply will be temporarily suspended in parts of Chingeltei district in Ulaanbaatar and in Battsumber and Erdene soums of Tuv Province to facilitate maintenance on power lines and equipment. The outages, scheduled between 09:00 and 20:00 depending on location, will affect both residential and business consumers. The Ulaanbaatar Electricity Distribution Network (UBCTSN) has advised affected users to plan accordingly during the maintenance period. The company has published a detailed schedule of the affected areas and times, accessible online. These periodic maintenance works are part of ongoing efforts to ensure the reliability and safety of the electricity infrastructure ahead of increased seasonal demand. No direct quotes from officials or individuals were included in the source article.

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Society

Historic Tourism Routes in Khentii to Be Registered on Google Maps

Published: 2025-08-12

Authorities have begun mapping and registering Khentii province's historic tourism routes on Google Maps, aiming to boost the region's profile as a key destination for cultural and historical tourism. This initiative is part of the government's "Visit Mongolia Year" campaign, which designates Khentii, Dornod, and Sukhbaatar provinces as central hubs for heritage tourism. The project is supported by the Asian Development Bank and involves collaboration between tourism associations and local organizations. The planned "Golden Ring" route will highlight Khentii's natural landmarks, attractions, and tourism complexes. Additionally, a major complex dedicated to Genghis Khan is under construction to further enhance the province's appeal. These developments are expected to make travel planning easier for visitors and support sustainable tourism growth in eastern Mongolia.

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Published: 2025-08-12

Recent cases highlight the growing importance of robust legal protections in Mongolia's property rental market, as disputes between landlords and tenants become more frequent. Examples include property damage, unpaid rent, and even fire incidents caused by tenants, with many landlords suffering financial and emotional losses due to insufficient or informal agreements. Over the past five years, courts have handled 1,435 rental-related disputes, primarily involving contracts above five million MNT. Experts stress the necessity of written, notarized contracts that clearly outline responsibilities and compensation mechanisms. Lawyer O. Törbold cautions against relying on generic online templates, stating:

"Most people think printing a ready-made contract from the internet and signing it is enough, but this can be invalid or insufficient to resolve disputes. It's better to draft a contract reflecting your own terms and have it notarized." - O. Törbold, lawyer (unuudur.mn)

The Financial Regulatory Commission recommends using licensed real estate agencies and notarized agreements to ensure legal protection for both parties.

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Visitor Numbers Surge at Ulaagchnii Khar Lake as Tourism Season Peaks

Published: 2025-08-12

Over 8,000 travelers visited the protected Ulaagchnii Khar Lake area in Zavkhan province during July, marking a significant increase in tourism activity. The lake, renowned for its pristine water and unique landscape of sand dunes and mountains, spans 37 km in length and is a designated national protected area covering 253,800 hectares. The influx of visitors has highlighted the need for improved infrastructure and environmental management. Park ranger P. Rensmaa emphasized the growing challenges, stating:

"There is a need to create comfortable conditions for visitors at the policy level. In particular, more waste collection points and restrooms are needed along the lake shore. During peak tourism months, the focus on waste management and visitor monitoring often overshadows other ranger duties." - P. Rensmaa, Park Ranger (montsame.mn)

While a local tourist camp has installed a small incinerator to manage waste sustainably, rangers still face logistical difficulties transporting garbage 60 km to the nearest town, underscoring ongoing environmental pressures as tourism grows.

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Mortgage Eligibility Expanded for Parents on Childcare Leave

Published: 2025-08-12

The Mongolian Mortgage Corporation has clarified that individuals on childcare leave can now be co-borrowers for mortgage loans, provided the main borrower's income meets the required debt-to-income ratio of 45%. This development addresses common concerns from citizens regarding mortgage eligibility during periods of parental leave. If a parent returns to work after childcare leave and has been employed for at least three months, their average income over that period can be included in the household income calculation for loan eligibility. The policy aims to improve access to housing finance for families, especially those temporarily out of the workforce due to childcare responsibilities. This adjustment is expected to support greater financial inclusion and flexibility for young families navigating Mongolia's housing market.

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Environment

Authorities Prepare for Harsh Winter as Drought Impacts Agriculture and Energy Sectors

Published: 2025-08-12

The State Emergency Commission convened to address preparations for the 2025-2026 winter, with officials warning of a challenging season due to widespread drought conditions. Approximately 13.6% of Mongolia's territory is experiencing drought or near-drought, particularly affecting western and northern provinces. Pasture yields are low, and crop production is expected to fall below the multi-year average after a hot, dry summer. Over 100 million livestock are projected to overwinter, intensifying pressure on resources. The government is prioritizing the stockpiling of hay and feed, especially for regions unable to harvest sufficient supplies. Energy sector preparations include repairs to 24 thermal power plant boilers and the commissioning of a new 150 MW unit at the Buuruljuut power plant in December.

"With the commissioning of this plant, there will be no electricity restrictions," - Minister of Energy B. Choijilsuren (unuudur.mn)

Local authorities have been instructed to ensure uninterrupted coal mining operations and secure fuel reserves to mitigate risks during the winter months.

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Budget Cuts Challenge Air Pollution and Water Management Initiatives for 2026

Published: 2025-08-12

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has proposed a 2026 budget of MNT 231.2 billion, marking a significant reduction from previous years. Of this, only MNT 5 billion is allocated to air pollution reduction, a figure officials acknowledge is insufficient for meaningful progress.

"Even if we allocate billions and restructure management, we are far from achieving real results. We need better management, increased investment, and improved organization to address this issue." - Ts. Urtnasan, State Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (gogo.mn)

The budget for the Water Agency has also been slashed from MNT 3.2 billion to MNT 300 million, raising concerns about the agency's ability to protect critical water resources. Officials warn that the drastic cuts will severely limit environmental protection efforts, especially for essential river systems. The government plans to continue replacing old coal stoves in Ulaanbaatar with cleaner technology, but funding constraints may hamper progress.

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Siberian Locusts Detected Across Most Regions, With Severe Infestations in Two Provinces

Published: 2025-08-12

The National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring has reported widespread sightings of Siberian locusts across much of the country, based on field data collected as of August 10, 2025. The most severe infestations have been observed in Gurvanbulag soum of Bayankhongor province and Erdenesant soum of Tuv province, where locust densities are notably high. This development raises concerns for agricultural productivity and pastureland health, as locust outbreaks can cause significant crop and grassland damage. The agency's findings underscore the need for ongoing monitoring and potential intervention to mitigate the impact on rural livelihoods and food security. No official statements or policy responses from government officials were included in the report.

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Innovation

State Employees Begin Advanced Studies in Japan with JDS Scholarship Program

Published: 2025-08-12

Fifteen Mongolian civil servants, including specialists in credit and radioactive waste management, have been selected to pursue master's and doctoral degrees at leading Japanese universities under the Human Resource Development (JDS) Scholarship Program. The initiative, funded by Japan since 1999 and active in Mongolia since 2001, aims to strengthen the capacity of young government officials and foster bilateral ties. To date, 432 Mongolian officials have benefited from the program, contributing expertise in key sectors upon their return. Japanese Ambassador Masaru Igawahara emphasized the dual goals:

"First, to provide young Mongolian civil servants—who will play a vital role in the country's future socio-economic development—the opportunity to earn advanced degrees at Japanese universities, and second, to further strengthen the friendship between our two nations by building personal connections." - Ambassador Masaru Igawahara (gogo.mn)

The program prioritizes fields such as macroeconomics and sustainable economic development, with candidates selected through a rigorous three-stage process. Graduates are expected to address Mongolia's pressing challenges and act as bridges for continued cooperation between the two countries.

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Australian Smart School of Ulaanbaatar Launches Dual-Certificate Program with International University Access

Published: 2025-08-12

The Australian Smart School of Ulaanbaatar has opened enrollment for the new academic year, introducing for the first time in Mongolia the Australian "Entrepreneur Academy" curriculum in finance and information technology. Graduates will receive dual Australian-Mongolian certificates and bilingual proficiency in English and Mongolian, enabling direct admission or scholarship opportunities at universities in ten countries, including the US, UK, and Australia. The program, targeting grades 9-12, covers foundational and advanced topics in IT, artificial intelligence, blockchain, and personal finance, with practical training using tools like Google Workspace AI and Canva AI. Classrooms are equipped with MAXHUB smart displays, and up to 50% of science classes are conducted through hands-on experiments. The school is centrally located, minimizing commute times and offering secure student transport. Enrollment is limited across grades 1-12, with applications now open.

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Weather Radar Upgrade Sought with Japanese Support

Published: 2025-08-12

Mongolia's National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring has formally requested assistance from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to upgrade the Morin-Uul weather radar station, a critical facility originally installed with Japanese aid in 1999. The radar, one of only three in the country, is essential for early warning of severe weather and disaster risk reduction, but has become unreliable due to outdated technology and lack of spare parts. The Japanese delegation acknowledged the urgent need for a modern radar network in Mongolia but did not commit to immediate support. The situation highlights the vulnerability of Mongolia’s weather monitoring infrastructure and the broader implications for public safety and aviation security, as the country faces increasing climate-related risks. No direct quotes from officials were included in the source article.

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Universities Employ Aggressive Tactics to Attract Students as Competition Intensifies

Published: 2025-08-12

As the new academic year approaches, Mongolian universities are intensifying recruitment efforts, often using misleading marketing strategies to attract students. Many institutions promise scholarships, guaranteed employment, and international study opportunities, but these claims are frequently exaggerated or based on selective data. For example, some universities count temporary internships as full employment and base statistics on a small fraction of graduates. A lecturer from the National University of Mongolia highlighted the gap between student expectations and labor market realities:

"Students often believe they will immediately secure high-paying jobs after graduation, but they are unaware of the actual competition and demand in the labor market." - Lecturer, National University of Mongolia (unuudur.mn)

The lack of a unified admissions system allows students to register at multiple institutions, leading to confusion and enabling universities to use manipulative tactics. The article notes that the focus for many schools has shifted from educational quality to maximizing enrollment, sometimes at the expense of students' best interests.

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Primary School Textbooks Set for Timely Delivery as New Academic Year Approaches

Published: 2025-08-12

With less than three weeks before the start of the new school year, concerns have arisen over textbook shortages and procurement delays in Mongolia. The General Authority for Education (GAE) has addressed these issues, confirming that all arrangements are in place to deliver primary school textbooks by September 1. GAE Director T. Nyam-Ochir explained that while procurement processes faced timing challenges due to shifting ministerial decisions and program changes, the situation is under control.

"We have made all necessary arrangements to ensure primary school textbooks reach schools by September 1, implementing every possible option," - T. Nyam-Ochir, Director, General Authority for Education (ikon.mn)

Textbooks for grades 3 and 5 are ready for distribution, with grade 2 printing underway and grade 1 contracts being finalized. The government fully covers textbooks for grades 1-5, while upper grades access books via purchase or school libraries. The GAE is also retiring outdated 2019 textbooks, ensuring current materials are available for the new academic year.

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Health

MIAT Maintains Strict Safety Protocols After In-Flight Incidents

Published: 2025-08-12

MIAT, Mongolia's national airline, recently experienced two separate technical incidents involving Boeing 737 aircraft on international flights. In both cases, the aircraft returned or diverted to the nearest airport as a precaution, following international aviation safety protocols. The first incident involved a discrepancy in airspeed indicators on a Beijing-bound flight, while the second saw a cabin pressure alert on a Tokyo-Ulaanbaatar route, prompting a diversion to Osaka. MIAT's CEO, B. Munkhtamir, emphasized that these actions were standard safety measures, not emergencies:

"These cases were not breaches of safety procedures, but rather steps taken in strict adherence to safety regulations." - B. Munkhtamir, CEO (ikon.mn)

He highlighted that MIAT's maintenance team is internationally certified and services both domestic and foreign aircraft. The airline continues to expand its fleet and routes, with ongoing training for pilots and engineers to meet global standards. These developments come as MIAT considers launching direct flights to the United States, with leadership stating that now is an opportune time for such expansion.

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Measles Cases Reach 13,284 as Health Authorities Urge Vaccination

Published: 2025-08-12

Confirmed measles cases in Mongolia have risen to 13,284 as of August 12, 2025, according to the National Center for Communicable Diseases. Of these, 47 patients remain hospitalized, including two in serious condition, while 10 deaths have been reported. The majority of cases are among children aged 10-14 (5,013 cases), followed by those aged 0-4 (2,994) and 5-9 (1,712). Over 96,000 individuals have been identified as contacts of confirmed cases. Health officials emphasize that measles is highly contagious but preventable through vaccination, specifically recommending the two-dose regimen. Authorities continue to call on the public to participate in immunization campaigns to curb the outbreak. No direct quotes from named officials or individuals were present in the source articles.

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Government Reviews Funding Limits for Pediatric Chronic Illness Treatment

Published: 2025-08-12

The Prime Minister of Mongolia, G. Zandanshatar, visited the National Center for Maternal and Child Health (NCMCH) on August 12, 2025, in response to mounting concerns over limited funding for chronic pediatric treatments. The NCMCH, serving a third of the national population who are children, faces severe capacity strains, with wait times for consultations reaching up to 20 days and surgeries up to 90 days. A new outpatient building, eight times larger than the previous facility, is set to open next month, expected to significantly reduce wait times and expand services. During the visit, a seven-year-old girl highlighted the impact of insurance funding caps, which prevented her from receiving necessary ear surgery. The Prime Minister pledged to address these issues, stating:

"While the new building is a positive step, it is crucial to ensure that patients do not face unnecessary obstacles and can access all services in one place. Despite economic challenges, maternal and child health will remain a top priority." - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (gogo.mn)

The government will review and potentially revise the current restrictions on insurance funding for chronic pediatric treatments in the near future, aiming for more child-friendly solutions by next year.

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Arts

International Arts Program Engages Communities on Climate Change Awareness

Published: 2025-08-12

The "Nomadic Wisdom-2025" international program, initiated by the EU National Institutes for Culture's Mongolia branch, held its second edition in Dundgovi province from June 14-26. The initiative aims to raise public awareness and participation on climate change through art, connecting local communities with artists from Mongolia, Finland, France, Austria, and Germany. Over ten days, artists collaborated with residents and children to create murals, installations, animations, dance, and paintings, while also conducting workshops and discussions on climate change, water scarcity, and environmental attitudes. The program is supported by several European cultural institutions and embassies, and curated by B. Gantuya, founder of the Mongolian Contemporary Art Support Association. The EU National Institutes for Culture's Mongolia branch seeks to foster bilateral cultural relations and address shared social and environmental challenges through artistic collaboration.

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