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Mongolia — Daily

Mongolia Daily: UB bans raw coal, blocks untreated wastewater by 2026, and Russia lifts fuel curbs

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Politics

Published: 2025-08-19

MP U. Shijir has formally asked Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar to clarify how MNT 630 billion allocated across 126 lawmakers is being used following its reinstatement in the July budget revision. The line-item—popularly known as “MPs’ five billion”—was not in the initial 2025 draft budget, was added at committee stage, then removed amid backlash, before returning with new requests from MPs. Shijir argues the scheme risks politicizing investment decisions, undermining unified budget principles and oversight, and diverting funds from national priorities under Vision 2050 and the 2024–2028 Government Action Plan. He requested evidence of compliance with the Budget Law and Fiscal Stability Law and whether the allocations support approved development projects.

"The MNT 630 billion split among 126 MPs should go to necessary projects and programs, not parochial initiatives that score political points." - MP U. Shijir (news.mn)

"This practice may infringe upon Parliament’s oversight powers by bundling MPs’ proposals and politicizing government operations." - MP U. Shijir (itoim.mn)

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Budget Shift Concentrates 2026 Public Investment on Energy, Transport and Social Services

Published: 2025-08-19

Mongolia’s 2026 public investment plan will prioritize energy, transport and core social sectors, with smaller, low-yield projects deferred. The Finance Ministry’s Delgerjargal Jargal (Director, Development Financing and Investment Department) said the government will score and rank proposals against a 3.2 trillion MNT ceiling, after receiving 1,712 project requests totaling 14.4 trillion MNT. Execution capacity remains a constraint given short construction seasons and limited contractors. Education and health are set for targeted expansions—108 new schools (84 in Ulaanbaatar) and 95 kindergartens—while major health facilities will proceed with external financing. Energy will attract 3–4 trillion MNT from combined sources, including about 400 billion MNT from the state budget. COP-17 preparations in 2026 carry roughly 240 billion MNT in proposed investments across security, infrastructure, and logistics.

"About 3–4 trillion MNT will flow into energy, of which roughly 400 billion MNT is from the state budget next year." - Delgerjargal Jargal, Finance Ministry official (itoim.mn)

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Lawmaker Challenges “District Funds” Plan, Citing Constitutional Risks and Potential Vote-Buying

Published: 2025-08-19

MP Ch. Lodoisambuu has questioned the government’s move to solicit investment proposals from MPs for the 2026 state budget, allocating about MNT 5 billion per lawmaker—known locally as “district funds.” He argues the practice, which began in 2000 at MNT 10 million and now totals MNT 510 billion for next year, undermines the separation of powers by weakening Parliament’s independent oversight of the budget. He referenced a 2007 Constitutional Court ruling that found such allocations unconstitutional and asked whether it will be treated as precedent. Lodoisambuu also sought clarity on alignment with the 2024–2028 government program and regional development policy, and whether deferring some mega projects would alter public debt.

"Distributing ‘district funds’ is an operation to buy voters’ support and an attempt to bribe Parliament." - MP Ch. Lodoisambuu (unuudur.mn)

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Prosecutors Send Fraud and Money Laundering Case to Court Over Fake ETT Coal Deal

Published: 2025-08-19

Mongolia’s Prosecutor’s Office reported oversight of 54,167 criminal cases during Aug. 11–15 and advanced multiple files to court, including a coal-trade fraud linked to state miner Erdenes Tavantolgoi (ETT). Prosecutors allege defendant B.Z., in collusion with D.G., misled a trading company in China’s Urad Middle Banner by falsely claiming “M” LLC held a coal sales contract with ETT. The pair allegedly executed a sham “tons of coal purchase and sale” agreement, causing large financial losses, and then laundered proceeds by concealing the illicit origin and circulating the funds. Charges were filed under fraud (including causing significant damage) and money laundering provisions, with the case sent to the district criminal court covering Bayanzurkh, Chingeltei, and Sukhbaatar. In a separate case, J.J. faces charges for fabricating tax invoices worth MNT 6.92 billion across 91 firms and seven individuals.

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Economy

Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi Plans MNT 1.3 Trillion Operating Cost Cut as State Holding Pushes Reforms

Published: 2025-08-19

Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar reviewed state-owned Erdenes Mongol’s reform drive, where management outlined phased measures to raise revenues, defer investments, and slash costs to support the unified budget by MNT 4.6 trillion. Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi (ETT) targets MNT 1.3 trillion in operating savings, while other group firms plan MNT 45 billion in cuts; ETT and Erdenet have postponed MNT 199 billion and MNT 320 billion in investments, respectively. Erdenet aims to exceed sales by MNT 208 billion, with other subsidiaries adding MNT 95 billion, offsetting weaker sales at Shivee-Ovoo and Baganuur. The government pressed for leaner structures and higher productivity, tighter centralized procurement, and more processing capacity to boost exports, taxes, and the National Wealth Fund.

"You have room to generate MNT 4 trillion in efficiencies; do not reduce the 2025 revenue-increase target below that figure." - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (urug.mn)

"The group will implement a three-phase plan to increase income and cut expenditures." - S. Narantsogt, CEO, Erdenes Mongol (gogo.mn)

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Global Women Entrepreneurs Forum Brings 230 Delegates to Ulaanbaatar with Expo and Funding Announcements

Published: 2025-08-19

Ulaanbaatar will host the Global Women Entrepreneurs Forum on August 25–26 under the President’s patronage, framed by an exhibition on Sükhbaatar Square (Aug 24–25) and B2B matchmaking. Organizers expect around 230 delegates from 22–25 countries, with six thematic sessions spanning finance access, digital trade and innovation, green inclusive growth, leadership, and export support. A startup track will publicize international fellowships, while a large outdoor expo will feature mainly SMEs, including 150 companies and participants from 21 provinces. Officials position the event as part of a multi‑year push that has raised Mongolia’s profile in gender-focused diplomacy.

“The forum aims to reaffirm the country as a regional leader supporting women’s economic participation… and open new cross‑border partnerships and investment channels,” - G. Ulziisaikhan, Director, Department of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, MFA (montsame.mn)

“US$1 million from the WTO will be awarded to 50 selected women entrepreneurs,” - B. Saruul, Secretary General, Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (gogo.mn)

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2026 Budget Draft Sets Coal at $133.7/t, Plans Tax Easing as 2025 Deficit Widens

Published: 2025-08-19

The Finance Ministry’s 2026 draft budget targets balanced revenues of MNT 31.6 trillion (30.9% of GDP), expenditures of MNT 33.0 trillion (32.2%), and a primary surplus equal to 2% of GDP, while capping current spending at 30% of GDP. Assumptions set “stabilized” prices at $133.7/ton for coal and $8,341.8/ton for copper, with risk factors including commodity price declines, public debt pressures, and severe winter impacts. Policy measures prioritize shrinking the state’s economic footprint, reallocating functions to the private sector, and phased tax relief, including tiered VAT refunds and higher thresholds for corporate income tax bands.

By contrast, preliminary data show the 2025 consolidated budget posted a MNT 1.3 trillion structural deficit in January–July as revenues fell 6.1% to MNT 16.6 trillion—tax intake down 8.7%—while spending rose 10.7% to MNT 16.9 trillion, led by higher goods and services outlays and transfers. The divergence underscores sensitivity to coal and copper cycles and the importance of execution on planned tax and governance reforms to stabilize finances and support private-led growth.

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Copper Concentrate Exports Climb to 1.2 Million Tons as China Expands Processing Capacity

Published: 2025-08-19

Copper is closing the gap with coal in Mongolia’s export mix. In the first half of 2025, coal generated USD 2.6 billion and copper concentrate USD 2.4 billion. Over seven months, Mongolia exported 1.2 million tons of copper ore and concentrate worth USD 2.8 billion, up 315,000 tons year-on-year, with the average price per ton rising by USD 433. Monthly pricing strengthened from USD 2,478/ton in June to USD 2,785/ton in July. The shift reflects growing downstream processing in China, Mongolia’s dominant buyer, which is raising demand for concentrate. For miners and logistics operators, higher volumes and prices point to improved cash flow and potentially stronger rail and border throughput needs. For policymakers, the trend underscores exposure to Chinese smelting cycles and the importance of infrastructure and market diversification to sustain revenue resilience.

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July Inflation Hits 8.1% as Services Costs Jump and Coal Exports Slide

Published: 2025-08-19

Mongolia’s consumer inflation reached 8.1% in July, according to the National Statistics Office, with services prices rising 16.6% year-on-year and goods up 5.4%. The acceleration was driven largely by higher prices for imported non-food items such as clothing, household goods, and vehicle-related imports. Fiscal pressures intensified: the state budget posted a deficit of MNT 1.3 trillion for the month as coal exports weakened and industrial output fell 5.1% compared to a year earlier. Mining underperformance led the decline, with coal extraction down MNT 3.7 trillion (28.4%) and crude oil output down MNT 93.2 billion (13.8%). For businesses, elevated services inflation can lift operating costs, while softer mining exports and industrial output may weigh on growth, revenue collection, and currency stability in the near term.

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Consumer Confidence Slips in Q2 as Short‑Term Expectations Weaken

Published: 2025-08-19

Consumer sentiment in Mongolia declined in Q2 2025, with the Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) at 98.9—down 5.5 points from Q1 and 9.8 points year over year—according to a quarterly survey by NRCC in partnership with the Mongolia-Japan Center for Human Resources Development, covering 851 respondents nationwide. Assessments of current conditions improved: the index for current business conditions and labor market reached 130.5. However, near‑term expectations for business conditions, income, and jobs fell to 88.6, signaling caution about the outlook. Views on employment are mixed: 35.6% rate current job availability as good, 22.9% expect it to improve, while 18.6% foresee deterioration. Price pressures remain a key concern, with 71% anticipating higher goods prices over the next year and inflation expectations at 8.3%. The divergence between stronger current conditions and weaker expectations suggests softer consumer spending ahead.

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Household Cash Incomes Rise to MNT 1.8 Million as Wages Gain Larger Share

Published: 2025-08-19

Average monthly household cash income reached MNT 1.8 million, up MNT 119,300 from a year earlier, according to the National Statistics Office. Wages account for 57.9% of cash income and increased their share by 1.5 percentage points, while pensions and benefits fell 1.3 points to 21.6%. Income distribution shifted upward: households earning over MNT 4 million grew by 89,700, while those below MNT 700,000 declined by 33,100. Average monthly household cash expenditure rose to MNT 2.8 million, up MNT 324,500. Food’s share in spending fell 0.7 points, while non-food goods and services rose 0.5 points. Among food outlays, meat (32.6%) and grains (22.9%) dominate. Non-food spending is led by transport fuel/maintenance (10.1%), clothing (7%), personal services (6.4%), telecoms (6.2%), and health (5.9%).

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Diplomacy

Russia Exempts Mongolia from Temporary Fuel Export Curbs as Leaders Pledge Energy Cooperation

Published: 2025-08-19

Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar held a call with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin on August 18, securing assurances that Russia’s newly imposed fuel export restrictions will not apply to Mongolia, keeping gasoline and fuel supplies steady. The discussion also prioritized continuity of deliveries through western border posts Tsagaannuur and Borshoo, where logistics can be vulnerable. Both sides committed to advancing broader economic, trade, and investment ties, signaling continuity in bilateral projects and energy coordination at a time of rising domestic demand for fuel and electricity.

"Although Russia has introduced certain limits on gasoline and fuel exports, these will not apply to Mongolia, and supplies will continue steadily." - Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin (ikon.mn)

"We appreciate that Mongolia is excluded from the gasoline export ban through August 31 and ask to ensure stable supplies via Tsagaannuur and Borshoo." - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (itoim.mn)

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U.S. Restarts Funding for $462M Water Compact, Keeping Ulaanbaatar Supply Projects on Track

Published: 2025-08-19

The U.S. Government has concluded its review of foreign aid programs and will continue financing the $462 million Millennium Challenge Corporation Water Compact with Mongolia, ensuring momentum for Ulaanbaatar’s water supply expansion. MCC had temporarily paused activities across 47 countries following a Jan. 20, 2025 executive order reviewing foreign aid financing, though the U.S. State Department allowed critical construction and some procurements for the Water Compact to proceed. Authorities say implementation remains within the approved budget and timeline, with overall progress targeted to reach 87% by August 2025. Continuity reduces project and procurement risks and supports planned infrastructure that is expected to bolster economic growth, investment conditions, and urban expansion in the capital. The decision signals policy stability for major U.S.-funded infrastructure in Mongolia and mitigates disruptions from the global pause. No direct official quotes were provided in the source.

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Laos Foreign Minister Pays Official Visit to Ulaanbaatar, Advancing Recent High-Level Exchanges

Published: 2025-08-19

Laos Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane arrived in Ulaanbaatar for an official visit at the invitation of Mongolia’s Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg. He and his delegation were received at Chinggis Khaan International Airport by Mongolia’s Ambassador to ASEAN D. Enkhtaivan and officials, signaling elevated engagement following consecutive presidential state visits: President U. Khurelsukh traveled to Laos in 2023, and Laos President Thongloun Sisoulith visited Mongolia in 2024. The visit underscores momentum in Mongolia–Laos ties, with expectations for deeper cooperation through ASEAN channels and potential agreements spanning diplomacy, trade, and connectivity. While no policy announcements were disclosed on arrival, the timing suggests efforts to convert recent top-level diplomacy into working-level initiatives and frameworks for sustained bilateral collaboration.

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Ulaanbaatar Hosts FEALAC Ministerial as Mongolia Assumes 2025–2027 Chair, Eyes Trade and “Third Neighbor” Partnerships

Published: 2025-08-19

Mongolia will chair the Forum for East Asia–Latin America Cooperation (FEALAC) from 2025 to 2027 and host the forum’s 10th Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and senior officials’ sessions in Ulaanbaatar on August 20–22. The article reviews FEALAC’s evolution since 1999 into a standing inter-regional mechanism spanning 36 countries and three work streams—political/cultural/education, economic/social, and science/technology—while underscoring Mongolia’s use of multi-vector diplomacy to diversify ties beyond its two neighbors. For Mongolia, FEALAC offers channels to expand agrifood exports and mining cooperation with Latin America, and to align with regional nuclear-weapon-free zone norms. It also signals a push to shift cooperation from technical exchanges toward business, trade, digital technologies, and SME links, with potential roles for the national chamber of commerce. No direct official statements were quoted in the source.

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Joint Mongolian–Chinese Border Drill Tests Cross-Border Crime Response in Xinjiang

Published: 2025-08-19

Mongolian and Chinese border troops conducted a joint exercise, “Border Cooperation-2025,” in China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture. The drill targeted cross-border illegal activity and tested coordinated command, surveillance and inspection, multi-source intelligence sharing, and a “three-dimensional neutralization” operation. The exercise aimed to assess joint command-and-control, interoperability, and crisis response capabilities, laying groundwork for strengthened border management and control. While specific scenarios and participating unit details were not disclosed, the location underscores China’s focus on its western frontier corridors that connect to Central Asia and, by extension, trade routes relevant to Mongolia–China logistics. For Mongolia, improved coordination with Chinese counterparts may streamline responses to transboundary security incidents and support more predictable border operations crucial for trade flows and transport reliability between the two countries.

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Seoul–Ulaanbaatar Expand Climate Ties with Focus on Desertification, COP17 Support

Published: 2025-08-19

Environment Minister B. Batbaatar met South Korea’s Ambassador Choi Jin Wong to deepen cooperation on climate and environmental projects, highlighting progress on the joint Green Belt initiative and support for its third phase. The program advances reforestation and counters dust storms and desertification, aligning with Mongolia’s national “Billion Trees” campaign and plans to introduce new technologies with Korean public and private partners. The sides discussed intensifying work on climate change mitigation, weather modification, mine site rehabilitation, and modernizing environmental monitoring. Mongolia briefed Seoul on preparations for COP17 and requested direct and indirect financial backing from the Korean government for venue and facilities as Ulaanbaatar readies proposals on global rangeland, water management, restoration, and afforestation. Both agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation and coordinate on international events and initiatives.

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Infrastructure

Ulaanbaatar to Block Untreated Industrial and Medical Wastewater from 2026 as Three Major Water Projects Near Completion

Published: 2025-08-19

Ulaanbaatar will stop accepting wastewater from large hospitals and 70 enterprises lacking pre-treatment agreements starting in 2026, tightening enforcement as major water infrastructure comes online. Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar said contracts to build on-site pre-treatment must be signed by September, with financing support via concessional loans and expedited permits, including land extensions where needed. The city is advancing three projects: a new Western Water Source, a Wastewater Reuse Plant alongside the new central treatment plant, and sector sustainability measures. Once operational (targeted late 2025–early 2026), reused effluent could replace 18–20 million m³ of groundwater annually for CHPs 3 and 4, easing aquifer stress and enabling city expansion westward. Only 34 of 771 contracted entities currently have pre-treatment, while pollutant loads entering sewers exceed norms severalfold, prompting stricter compliance and incentives for compliant firms.

"We will not accept wastewater from enterprises without pre-treatment agreements from 2026; their operations will be halted." - Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar (ikon.mn)

"If needed, we can support enterprises with concessional loans; build pre-treatment and we’ll move to reuse water at CHPs by 2027." - Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar (ikon.mn)

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Refinery Project Advances with Pipeline 86% Complete, Aiming to Supply Up to 70% of Fuel Demand

Published: 2025-08-19

Mongolia’s Oil Refinery project in Dornogovi is progressing, with engineering, procurement, and construction for phases 2 and 3 continuing and the crude pipeline reported 86.4% complete. Officials say phase 1 facilities and infrastructure have been handed over and are in use. The government frames the refinery as a macroeconomic stabilizer by reducing full dependence on imported fuel. Estimated output could meet 53% of total consumption on a cumulative basis and around 70% of regular domestic demand, potentially retaining a significant share of the roughly USD 1.8 billion spent on fuel imports in 2024. Indian and Japanese ambassadors reviewed the site with Industry and Mineral Resources Minister G. Damdinyam, who underscored high-level backing and biweekly oversight.

"Once operational, the refinery will enable us to cover 53% of total consumption on an accumulated basis, and about 70% of regular demand domestically." - G. Damdinyam, Industry and Mineral Resources Minister (news.mn)

"If we can keep 50% of this foreign currency flow at home, we can invest elsewhere, helping stabilize inflation and the exchange rate." - G. Damdinyam, Industry and Mineral Resources Minister (gogo.mn)

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Selbe River Floodwall Nears Completion with Utility Relocations Delaying Final Works

Published: 2025-08-19

Ulaanbaatar’s Selbe River upgrade—combining a 1.4 km flood-protection retaining wall, channel realignment, stone armoring, and riverside walkways—has reached key milestones but faces short-term delays due to utility relocations near major commercial buildings. Channel works are about 60% complete (400 of 700 meters), with granite stone reinforcement on both banks and the riverbed. The retaining wall is 95% finished but paused at seven utility conflict points affecting power and water lines around Shangri-La, Central Tower, and Union Building. City officials reaffirm the contract’s final deadline of January 12, 2026, while the contractor targets mid-September to finish stoneworks and reopen river flow, followed by landscaping and 2.5-meter-wide pedestrian paths on both banks.

"The contract’s end date is January 12, 2026... Concrete wall is 95%, stone revetment 40%." - L. Altangerel, Head Engineer, Capital City Infrastructure Department (urug.mn)

"Our stone works inside the river will finish by August 30; remaining delays stem from utility lines we don’t control." - R. Damba, Project Manager, Bilguun Mongol Construction (urug.mn)

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Ulaanbaatar Marks 2,460 Parking Slots for E-bikes and Scooters Inside the City Ring

Published: 2025-08-19

Ulaanbaatar has begun installing marked parking for shared e-bikes, scooters, and mopeds to curb sidewalk clutter and improve pedestrian safety. Following a June 18 meeting led by City Council Chair A. Bayar with rental operators Eco Bike and Tabo, traffic police, and road authorities, the city started work inside the Baga Toiruu (Inner Ring), designating 2,460 spaces across 105 locations. Initial markings cover the stretch from the Mungun Zaviya junction to the Mongolian State University of Arts and Culture junction, with capacity for about 250 vehicles. From August 21, improperly parked rental devices will be impounded, with fines of MNT 30,000 per vehicle, and operators are required to maintain and place their fleets in designated bays. Authorities note roughly 18,000 daily rentals, with unmanaged parking drawing complaints over obstructed walkways and urban aesthetics.

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Planned Power Outages Scheduled Across Ulaanbaatar and Tuv for Grid Maintenance

Published: 2025-08-19

Ulaanbaatar’s distribution utility is conducting scheduled maintenance leading to rolling power cuts across select districts this week. On Aug 19, partial outages affect Songinokhairkhan’s 3rd, 7th, 9th, and 20th khoroos, plus parts of Arkhangai’s Argalant soum, with additional restrictions in Sukhbaatar District’s 19th khoroo from 11:00–17:00. Specific areas include streets in Zuun Bayan-Uul and Baruun Bayan-Uul, community facilities such as Kindergarten No. 78 and School No. 76, and commercial sites including Emeelt market. On Aug 20, Bayanzurkh District will see targeted outages from approximately 11:00–17:00 as line and equipment repairs proceed. The maintenance window extends through Monday, Aug 25, with varying times by location. Businesses and households should adjust operations, protect sensitive equipment, and plan for intermittent service during the notified periods.

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Ulaanbaatar’s Green Housing Delivers First 220 Units, With Sales to Fund Wider Ger-Area Redevelopment

Published: 2025-08-19

Ulaanbaatar’s ADB-backed Green Affordable Housing program has completed construction of its first 220 eco-apartments in Bayankhoshuu, preparing handover to the state commission. Phase one targets 800 units across Bayankhoshuu and Sharkhad by 2026, while the broader project plans 5,000 units to cut coal stoves and pit latrines and improve efficiency and resilience. Project leads say 110 units will be commissioned next month, with 25% allocated to affected residents on rent-to-own terms and 75% sold on the market to recycle proceeds into land clearance and further builds. 454 additional units are 43.5% complete. Estimated impacts include removal of up to 8,000 chimneys and 5,000 pit latrines, plus sizable energy and water savings. 40% of the eco-neighborhoods will be green space to enhance livability.

"Next month 110 units will be commissioned; 25% will be rent-to-own for impacted residents and 75% sold, with revenues funding land clearance and 5,000 units via the Green Housing Fund." - B. Khishigtogtokh, Project Coordinator (ikon.mn)

"From this year we begin construction of the 4,200 income-appropriate eco units." - L. Chantsalnyam, Component Lead (ikon.mn)

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Ulaanbaatar to Shift 5,000 Households to Gas Heating with Haier and Hisense Units by October 1

Published: 2025-08-19

Ulaanbaatar will transition 5,000 households in selected ger-area khoroos to gas heating this year as part of an air‑quality drive, with Chinese manufacturers Haier and Hisense supplying stoves tailored for local use. Installations are slated for completion by October 1, and households using gas between September 15 and May 15 will receive a city subsidy totaling MNT 900,000. Targeted areas include parts of Gandan, Zuraagt, Denjiin Myanga, and Bayangol’s 11th and 16th khoroos. The city is simultaneously funding insulation for houses (facades and roof cavities) and, with UNICEF, for gers, after surveys found most heat loss occurs via ger covers and doors, and house walls, doors, and windows. Surveyed households showed 80% willingness to switch; updated emissions data with KOICA is planned.

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24/7 Bus Service Launches Between Sukhbaatar Square and Chinggis Khaan International Airport

Published: 2025-08-19

Ulaanbaatar will introduce round-the-clock public bus service between Sukhbaatar Square and Chinggis Khaan International Airport starting tomorrow. The SHU:4 route will depart from the car park at D. Sukhbaatar Square and run directly to the airport, providing a 24-hour transit option for residents and visitors. The buses are 45-seat, Euro-5 standard vehicles equipped with climate control tailored for Mongolia’s conditions and onboard surveillance for safety. Fares are set at MNT 15,000 for adults and MNT 7,000 for children, according to the Capital City’s Public Transport Policy Department. The move expands late-night and early-morning airport access beyond taxis and private transfers, potentially easing peak-hour congestion and offering a cost-stable alternative to ride-hailing during flight bank times.

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Ulaanbaatar Traffic Gridlock Triggers Odd–Even Driving Trial and Bus-Lane Enforcement

Published: 2025-08-19

"I now spend three to four hours a day on the road. Sometimes it feels like the whole country is at a standstill." - N. Dulam, commuter (news.mn)

Ulaanbaatar’s congestion has intensified before the new school year, with public buses frequently stuck in one direction for 30 minutes or more and commuters reporting 3–4 hour daily delays. The city counts 800,000 registered vehicles, about 450,000 of which are active daily; vehicle growth far outpaces new road capacity. Construction works and poor interagency coordination are compounding delays, particularly on the Yarmag–Nisekh corridor, where population has expanded rapidly but auxiliary roads remain limited. City councilor D. Badarsan said authorities launched a two-week push to prioritize public transport on Peace Avenue with 44 cameras, 30 traffic police, and 38 transit staff, and will pilot odd–even number plate restrictions for 21 days starting Monday, suspended on September 1. Measures include clearing bus lanes, penalizing parking and compliance violations, and tightening freight and micromobility controls. > "From yesterday, we began measures to support public transport... odd–even driving will start Monday for 21 days, with 63% support from surveyed residents." - D. Badarsan, NITKh representative (news.mn)

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Northbound Lanes Reopen on Peace Avenue Between Zuun Dörvön Zam and Officers’ Circle After Overnight Works

Published: 2025-08-19

Ulaanbaatar authorities will reopen the northbound lanes on Peace Avenue between Zuun Dörvön Zam and the Officers’ Circle at 06:00 on August 20, following a planned closure from 22:00 on August 18 for surface asphalt and road markings. The intervention is part of ongoing upgrades along one of the capital’s busiest east–west corridors, which connects residential districts with key commercial and government areas. Drivers were advised to use alternate routes during the works. For businesses and commuters, the limited window suggests the city is prioritizing overnight construction to reduce daytime congestion, a frequent concern during the summer roadwork season. No further diversions were announced, indicating normal traffic flow should resume with improved lane conditions once the segment reopens.

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Unauthorized Tree-Cutting Near Hunnu-2222 Highlights Weak Oversight in Ulaanbaatar Infrastructure Works

Published: 2025-08-19

A private contractor, Khangiltzag LLC, felled public greenery without permission near the Hunnu-2222 complex in Khan-Uul District while laying thermal pipeline connections under an Energy Ministry-backed efficiency project. Despite residents flagging the issue early on social media, city authorities reacted slowly, issuing notices rather than halting works promptly. The damage underscores recurring gaps in oversight of urban infrastructure projects that encroach on public spaces and green zones. Following an on-site visit, a senior city official said remediation has begun and tree planting is scheduled by October 1, but restoration cannot fully replace mature vegetation.

"We are eliminating the violation of unauthorized destruction of green areas. The company has started rehabilitation work and will plant trees on October 1" - T. Davaadalai, First Deputy Governor of Ulaanbaatar (unuudur.mn)

The incident raises questions about enforcement capacity and contractor compliance on state-linked projects in the capital.

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Ulaanbaatar Allocates Extra Funds to Upgrade Heating Networks and Replace 20 Steam Boilers

Published: 2025-08-19

"With the additional financing, we have begun repairs to external lines at 11 schools and internal networks at nine kindergartens. We will also expand external networks for seven hospitals and refurbish the internal environment of eight hospitals. In addition, 20 steam-heated boilers will be upgraded, enabling these schools, kindergartens, and family clinics to stop coal heating and use steam systems instead." - A. Amartuvshin, Deputy Governor for Social Sector, Green Development, and Air and Environmental Pollution (unuudur.mn)

Ulaanbaatar reports 63% completion of preparations for the 2025–2026 winter across 750 projects. City authorities approved 6.2 billion MNT in additional funding from the mayor’s reserve to accelerate repairs and heating upgrades for educational and healthcare facilities ahead of the school year. The planned replacement of 20 boilers is intended to reduce coal use at public institutions, a step aligned with the capital’s air pollution mitigation goals and improved reliability of heat supply infrastructure before peak winter demand.

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Ulaanbaatar Adds 100 Umoney Top‑Up Kiosks as Bus Fare Policy Expands Free Transfers

Published: 2025-08-19

Ulaanbaatar has deployed 100 kiosks citywide to sell and top up Umoney/UBCARD for public buses. Since February 1, the base fare is MNT 1,000, with passengers required to tap when alighting to access up to four free rides per day through transfer benefits. The new kiosks allow card purchase, balance reloads, and single-ride ticket issuance, complementing top-ups via the UBCARD app and cashier counters at Nomin, Emart, and CU stores. Co-branded Umoney cards with Trade and Development Bank, Khan Bank, and XacBank also qualify for transfer discounts. The system aims to streamline cashless payments and ensure passengers capture transfer entitlements by tapping off. Authorities reiterated that multiple top-up channels are available to reduce queues and improve service reliability across the network.

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Society

Published: 2025-08-19

Mongolia’s Traffic Management Center cautioned the public about fraudulent SMS messages sent from number 97697766806 claiming unpaid traffic fines. The center clarified these are not official notifications and urged recipients to avoid clicking embedded links, sharing personal data, or making payments. Multiple outlets report rising inquiries from citizens as the scam circulates. The advisory underscores continued exposure to phishing attempts exploiting government-branded services, a recurring tactic in Mongolia’s cyber fraud landscape. Drivers are instructed to report suspicious messages to law enforcement. The incident highlights the need for verifying violation notices through official channels and apps rather than unsolicited texts, particularly for payments. No arrests or suspects were announced, and authorities did not indicate whether the messages target specific regions or demographics. Businesses operating fleets should brief staff and tighten internal payment verification to avoid losses.

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Environment

Ulaanbaatar Orders Full Shift to Enriched Coal, Ending Raw Coal Use by September 15

Published: 2025-08-19

Ulaanbaatar will phase out raw coal in households and businesses and require the use of enriched coal (middlings) under a mayoral order dated August 1, 2025. City authorities set September 15 as the deadline for full compliance. Tavan Tolgoi Tuls LLC is tasked to maintain stable supply and distribution, while steam and hot-water boiler operators must undergo technological assessments and adopt enriched coal in stages. Enforcement will be led by the city’s Air and Environmental Pollution Authority with relevant inspectors. The move aims to cut winter smog linked to raw coal burning and signals tighter fuel standards ahead of the heating season. The directive also foreshadows operational changes for industrial boilers and potential cost and logistics adjustments for consumers and suppliers, with compliance monitoring built into the rollout.

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Heavy Rains Forecast for Central and Eastern Aimags, Ulaanbaatar to See 20–35 mm Downpour on Aug 20

Published: 2025-08-19

Mongolia’s weather agency warns of widespread heavy rain through Aug 21, with the most intense precipitation expected in Ulaanbaatar on Aug 20. Forecasts indicate 20–35 mm in the capital, reaching the threshold for hazardous conditions, and sustained showers across Tuv, Selenge, Orkhon, Darkhan-Uul, and parts of Dundgovi. Showers spread overnight into Govi-Sumber, Khentii, Dornod, and Sukhbaatar, accompanied by gusts, lightning, and possible hail. Temperatures will cool from Aug 20 in most regions, with mountain areas dropping near freezing at night, while the southern Gobi remains warmer. Authorities urge flood preparedness—protect basements and garages, clear drainage, avoid river valleys and floodplains, and use only reliable bridges and roads. Short, localized rainfall is ongoing in western aimags including Khovd, but broader systems will shift east over the next 48 hours.

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Government Blocks Pasture Hay Exports as Drought Threatens Difficult Winter; Energy, Food and Social Services Ordered to Prepare

Published: 2025-08-19

Mongolia’s government is tightening winter-readiness after severe drought conditions put 2025–2026 grazing and fodder supplies at risk. Deputy Prime Minister S. Amarsaikhan said authorities have prohibited exporting pasture grass and natural hay, while expanding feed imports and stockpiles in coordination with local governments and businesses. Risk assessments indicate more than two-thirds of soums face drought, with highest wintering risk in Uvurkhangai, Bayan-Ulgii, Umnugovi, Khovd and Dornogovi. The Emergency Commission has directed early planning, fodder reserves, and managed transhumance.

"Exporting pasture grass and natural hay is prohibited; we are increasing fodder supplies and imports with stakeholders." - Deputy PM S. Amarsaikhan (montsame.mn, gogo.mn)

Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar ordered strict timelines across sectors: secure 15-day coal reserves, complete power and heating maintenance, ensure steady fuel supply, and prepare schools and healthcare for mobility and seasonal illness. Agriculture officials project domestic coverage of 64% wheat, 73% potatoes, and 63% vegetables, underscoring reliance on imports if yields fall.

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Otgontenger Glacier Coverage Shrinks 84% over Two Decades, Threatening Khangai Headwaters

Published: 2025-08-19

Mongolia’s basin authorities report a sharp retreat of permanent snow and glaciers, with Otgontenger—the Khangai range’s highest peak—losing 84.2% of its perennial snow cover since 2005. Survey data show the snowfield shrinking from 220.6 hectares in 2005 to 34.7 hectares today, including a roughly 30% decline (11.7 hectares) since 2015. Officials link the rapid melt of permanent snow, glaciers, and permafrost to climate change, citing reduced river and lake levels and diminished water flow and reserves across the region. Water from Otgontenger’s snowpack feeds the Gegeen Lake via the Zavkhan River, but many Khangai-fed rivers and streams face disruption of their primary recharge, raising broader water security concerns for western and central basins.

"Many rivers and streams originating from the Khangai range have reached the danger point of losing their main recharge." - Z. Batbayar, Head of the Water Authority (unuudur.mn)

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Innovation

Tuition Rises for New Entrants at Mongolia’s Top State Universities for 2025–2026 Intake

Published: 2025-08-19

State universities will hold tuition steady for continuing students while raising fees for new entrants in the 2025–2026 academic year. The National University of Mongolia (NUM) increased per-credit fees for first-year students from MNT 168,100 to MNT 177,100; at an average 30 credits, annual tuition reaches about MNT 5.3 million. The Mongolian University of Science and Technology (MUST) lifted new-student per-credit rates to MNT 185,600–190,000 (about MNT 5.7 million per year). The Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (MNUMS) raised per-credit fees for medicine to MNT 170,000, bringing annual tuition to roughly MNT 5.2 million; other bachelor programs rose by MNT 25,000–40,000 per credit. The government signaled stability for non-freshmen.

"Tuition will not increase for students other than first-year entrants at state universities." - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (ikon.mn)

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Health

Public Housing Residents Urged to Curb Indoor Smoking as Law Bars Smoking in Shared Areas

Published: 2025-08-19

A Mongolian public-awareness piece highlights secondhand smoke as a persistent health and quality-of-life issue in apartment blocks, noting that smoke spreads through windows, ventilation, and vertical plumbing shafts, making neighbors involuntary passive smokers. The article underscores that there is effectively no place in multi-unit housing to smoke without harming others, aligning with the Tobacco Control Law that bans smoking in entrances, stairwells, elevators, children’s playgrounds, parks, and other shared spaces, and mandates workplaces to post no-smoking signs with complaint contacts. It explains complaint procedures under Article 12 and penalties under Article 13 via the Criminal or Infringement laws, though it ultimately encourages neighborly responsibility and respect. No direct statements from named officials or individuals were provided in the source.

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