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Mongolia — Daily

Mongolia Daily: UK Firms Join Metro Project, Bank Board Expands, and Hay Exports Halted

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Politics

Public Participation in 2026 Budget Reaches 150,000 Submissions via E-Mongolia

Published: 2025-08-11

As of 10:00 AM on August 11, 2025, 150,000 citizens have submitted their input on the 2026 national budget draft through the E-Mongolia platform. This initiative, mandated by Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar, aims to collect public feedback across all sectors for the upcoming fiscal year. The government is encouraging citizens to participate in the budget reform process by submitting suggestions either through the E-Mongolia system or the 11-11 call center. The public consultation period will remain open until August 14, 2025. This high level of engagement reflects growing efforts to incorporate citizen perspectives into fiscal planning, signaling a shift toward greater transparency and inclusivity in national budget formulation.

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Parliament Sets Ambitious Legislative Agenda for Autumn Session

Published: 2025-08-11

The State Great Khural (Parliament) of Mongolia has announced a comprehensive legislative agenda for its autumn session, scheduled to begin on September 15. Lawmakers will deliberate on 39 key bills and resolutions, including the 2026 state budget, reforms to social and health insurance funds, and the National Wealth Fund. The session will also address amendments to laws on human rights, freedom of the press, public assembly, and anti-corruption measures targeting illicit assets of public officials. Significant attention will be given to economic modernization, with proposals to improve the governance of state-owned enterprises, update tax legislation, and enhance food safety standards. Urban development is also on the agenda, with the general plan for Ulaanbaatar’s development through 2040 set for discussion. This legislative package reflects the government’s intent to advance transparency, economic resilience, and social welfare in the coming years.

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Anti-Corruption Agency Seeks Prosecution of MP S. Ganbaatar Over Union Land Deal

Published: 2025-08-11

The Independent Authority Against Corruption (IAAC) has formally requested that the Ulaanbaatar Prosecutor's Office indict Member of Parliament S. Ganbaatar as a suspect in a criminal case. The case concerns allegations that officials from the Confederation of Mongolian Trade Unions (CMTU) transferred and sold union-registered land to third parties, with Ganbaatar allegedly acquiring real estate from businesses at preferential prices in return. The IAAC's investigation intensified after Ganbaatar made a public appearance during a June inspection of CMTU-controlled land, drawing significant attention to the case. The development signals increased scrutiny of high-profile figures in property-related corruption cases, highlighting ongoing efforts to address public sector misconduct.

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Economy

Development Bank Board to Include International Representatives as Governance Reforms Advance

Published: 2025-08-11

Mongolia's Development Bank is undergoing significant governance reforms following years of instability and a high proportion of non-performing loans (55.9% of its portfolio). The government has raised the bank's capital by 1.5 trillion MNT and secured $350 million from international bond markets. In a move to restore investor confidence and improve oversight, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Development N. Uchral announced that the bank's board will no longer be filled through political appointments, but will instead include representatives from major international financial institutions such as the Asian Development Bank and the World Bank.

"We will ensure the Development Bank can operate without fear within the legal framework, and we will involve representatives from international development finance institutions in its management to improve governance." - N. Uchral, First Deputy Prime Minister (gogo.mn)

The reforms also aim to prioritize transparent project selection, support import-substituting industries, and focus on projects with clear socio-economic benefits. These steps are intended to address past mismanagement and position the bank as a driver of sustainable economic development.

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Faster Rail Cargo Inspections Boost Trade Capacity at Zamyn-Uud Border

Published: 2025-08-11

The installation of new inspection equipment at the Zamyn-Uud railway border crossing has significantly reduced the time required for cargo train inspections between Mongolia and China. This development enables a greater number of trains to be processed daily, increasing the potential for cross-border trade. Currently, an average of 700 broad-gauge and 500 standard-gauge wagons are exchanged each day between Zamyn-Uud and Ereen stations. In 2024, 17.3 million tons of cargo were exchanged via rail at this crossing. With the new system, annual capacity is expected to rise by an additional 2.1 million tons on broad gauge and 1 million tons on standard gauge. The move follows previous investments, including a dedicated inspection tower built three years ago. These enhancements are expected to streamline logistics, reduce bottlenecks, and support growing trade volumes along this key corridor.

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Ariq Bank Awards Savings Campaign Prizes to 59 Customers

Published: 2025-08-11

Ariq Bank concluded the fifth round of its "Save with Ariq and Become a 100 Million Winner" campaign, awarding prizes to 59 customers for the July 2025 cycle. The top prize, a trip for two to Turkey, was won by N. Uranchimeg, who shared her experience:

"At first, I didn't believe it was real, it felt like a game. But after watching the live video, I was convinced. In today's environment, growing your wealth through business is difficult, but saving in a bank is the most reliable step. Winning this trip is the best reward for my savings efforts. I encourage everyone to start saving today." - N. Uranchimeg (ikon.mn)

Other prizes included cash awards of 1 million, 500,000, and 50,000 MNT. L. Tsetseg, a pensioner who won 500,000 MNT, emphasized the value of regular saving:

"By saving 500,000 MNT from my pension each month, my savings gradually increase and become a support when needed. Even small amounts can turn into big opportunities in the future." - L. Tsetseg (gogo.mn)

Ariq Bank offers term deposits with annual interest rates of 14-16.5% and monthly prize draws, aiming to encourage financial discipline among its clients.

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Consumer Prices Rise 8.1 Percent Year-on-Year as Inflation Accelerates

Published: 2025-08-11

The National Statistics Office reported that the consumer price index (CPI) in July 2025 increased by 8.1% compared to the same period last year, despite a slight 0.1% decrease from the previous month. The price of goods rose by 5.4%, while services surged by 16.6% year-on-year. Food prices increased by 6.4%, and non-food items by 8.8%. The Central region saw a 6.0% rise in goods, and Ulaanbaatar experienced the highest service price growth at 18.2%. The inflation rate accelerated from 5.1% in July 2024 to 8.1% in July 2025, with imported goods (excluding fuel) and domestic products (excluding meat and solid fuels) contributing significantly to the increase. These trends highlight persistent inflationary pressures, especially in services and urban centers, which may impact household budgets and business costs.

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Mortgage Loan Eligibility and Procedures Clarified for Homebuyers

Published: 2025-08-11

The Mongolian Mortgage Corporation (MIK) has released a comprehensive FAQ addressing common questions about obtaining subsidized mortgage loans for residential properties. Key eligibility criteria include a debt-to-income ratio not exceeding 45%, and applicants must demonstrate stable income, typically by remaining with one employer for at least one year. Those who have changed jobs more than twice in the past two years may be considered to have unstable income, potentially affecting their loan eligibility. Existing property can be used as collateral for the down payment under certain conditions, and borrowers may request to change their payment dates through their bank. The process for checking whether a loan has been transferred to MIK is available online. Special provisions exist for co-borrowers on parental leave, with household income calculations adjusted accordingly. These clarifications aim to streamline the mortgage process and provide transparency for prospective homebuyers navigating Mongolia’s housing finance system.

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Asset Management Firm Expands Role in Resolving Non-Performing Loans

Published: 2025-08-11

The Mongolian Asset Management Corporation (MAUK) has emerged as a key player in addressing non-performing loans (NPLs) within the country's financial sector. Established in 2017 without state funding, MAUK has piloted the collection and resolution of distressed assets, notably recovering 4 billion MNT for the state budget in early 2025. The company’s approach is modeled on international best practices, with technical support from South Korea’s KAMCO and active participation in the International Public Asset Management Forum (IPAF). MAUK’s CEO, M. Enkhtur, emphasized the company’s independence from government subsidies:

"We aim to operate as a market-based asset management company, resolving NPLs efficiently without direct state financing." - M. Enkhtur, CEO (ikon.mn)

The upcoming IPAF conference in Ulaanbaatar (August 2025) will bring together over 70 delegates from 20 countries, highlighting Mongolia’s growing integration into regional financial networks. MAUK’s development is expected to foster a secondary market for NPLs, attract foreign investment, and support economic stability by reducing systemic financial risks.

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Diplomacy

ADB Expands Partnership to Boost Employment and Skills Training

Published: 2025-08-11

The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection met with Shannon Cowlin, the Asian Development Bank's (ADB) Mongolia Country Director, to discuss expanding cooperation on employment initiatives. Building on over 30 years of collaboration, the new focus will be on broadening labor market opportunities, particularly for youth, women, and vulnerable groups. Planned projects include short-term vocational training for in-demand professions, support for start-ups targeting people with disabilities, the unemployed, and low-income citizens, as well as efforts to increase female workforce participation and create jobs in rural areas. These initiatives are expected to enhance access to state services and improve social inclusion for target groups. The meeting signals a strategic shift towards addressing labor market needs and supporting inclusive economic growth through targeted ADB-backed programs.

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Infrastructure

UK Firms to Advise on Ulaanbaatar Metro Project After High-Level Talks

Published: 2025-08-11

The Ulaanbaatar Metro project has taken a significant step forward as Crossrail International, the company behind London's Elizabeth Line, was appointed strategic advisor for the planned 19.4 km, 15-station metro in Mongolia's capital. This development follows a series of meetings between Ulaanbaatar Mayor Khishgee Nyambaatar and UK officials, including Ambassador Fiona Blyth and executives from Crossrail. The partnership opens opportunities for UK companies to participate in contracts worth hundreds of millions of pounds. The metro aims to address severe traffic congestion and air pollution in Ulaanbaatar, where winter temperatures can reach -37°C and public transport is currently limited. Mayor Nyambaatar emphasized the project's ambition:

"The United Kingdom and Mongolia are jointly building a world-class metro system from scratch. This rivals the bold vision that created London's underground in 1861. The project not only meets international standards but also embodies a shared vision for flexible, connected cities." - Mayor Khishgee Nyambaatar (itoim.mn)

The collaboration is expected to improve urban mobility, air quality, and quality of life for residents.

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Ulaanbaatar Advances Winter Preparations with Infrastructure Upgrades and Pollution Controls

Published: 2025-08-11

Ulaanbaatar city officials report that preparations for the 2025-2026 winter season have reached 63% completion, encompassing 750 projects across sectors such as heating, electricity, infrastructure, housing, health, and education. Key initiatives include the renewal of 13.5 km of main heating pipelines and ongoing repairs to 3,387 utility lines. The city is also integrating air pollution reduction measures into its winter readiness strategy. Eight major lines under the "Ulaanbaatar District Heating Efficiency Project" are 85% complete, while the main district heating company’s repair works stand at 53%. Health sector preparations are at 70.9%. Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar emphasized the dual focus on infrastructure and environmental health:

"I have instructed that winter preparations be carried out with high quality, in tandem with efforts to reduce air pollution." - Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar (itoim.mn)

These efforts aim to ensure reliable public services and improved air quality for the coming winter.

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Scheduled Power Outages Announced for Ulaanbaatar and Surrounding Areas as Grid Maintenance Continues

Published: 2025-08-11

Authorities have announced scheduled electricity outages in Ulaanbaatar and nearby regions on August 11 and 12, 2025, to facilitate ongoing maintenance of the power grid. The outages will affect several districts in the capital, including Bayangol, Bayanzurkh, and Sukhbaatar, as well as parts of Tuv province. The "Ulaanbaatar Electricity Distribution Network" company has urged residents and businesses to adjust their electricity usage during these periods, noting that maintenance work will be conducted only after equipment is fully disconnected from the power supply for safety reasons. Outages are expected to occur between 09:00 and 20:00, depending on location. The schedule may change due to weather conditions, with updates provided to registered users. These maintenance efforts are part of a broader plan to ensure the reliability and safety of the electricity supply during the summer months, a period when infrastructure upgrades are commonly undertaken in Mongolia.

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Ulaanbaatar Expands School and Hospital Capacity with Major Infrastructure Push

Published: 2025-08-11

Ulaanbaatar is undertaking a significant expansion of its educational and healthcare infrastructure in 2025. City officials report that 15 new schools and kindergartens are opening this September, increasing capacity by over 14,000 school seats and 7,500 kindergarten places. By the end of the year, 20 new facilities will be operational, with plans to add 30 more schools next year. The city aims to resolve classroom overcrowding by 2028 through the construction of 62 additional schools.

On the healthcare front, the city has allocated ₮30 billion for major hospital renovations and another ₮30 billion for school and kindergarten upgrades, a substantial increase from previous years. As a result, 60% of all municipal hospital equipment will be renewed this year.

"By 2028, Ulaanbaatar will have fully addressed the issue of school and kindergarten capacity." - Deputy Mayor A. Amartuvshin (ikon.mn)

These investments are expected to improve access and quality in both education and healthcare, supporting the city’s growing population and addressing longstanding infrastructure gaps.

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Ulaanbaatar Upgrades 100.9 km of Roads Across 34 Locations as Part of Major Infrastructure Push

Published: 2025-08-11

Ulaanbaatar city authorities have completed the renovation of 100.9 kilometers of primary roads at 34 locations, as part of a phased infrastructure upgrade planned for 2024 and 2025. The 2024 road renewal program covered 137.1 km, a tenfold increase compared to the previous decade’s annual average. The city has designated 2025 as the “Year of Construction,” aiming to address air pollution, traffic congestion, and urban quality of life through 24 major projects, including new multi-level highways and ring roads. According to B. Odbayar, Head of the Capital City Administration, further works are scheduled:

"In 2025, we plan to repair and renew roads at 44 locations. As of today, work has been completed at 34 sites, and base paving is ongoing at 10 more locations covering 14.15 km." - B. Odbayar, Head of Capital City Administration (gogo.mn)

These upgrades are intended to lay the groundwork for larger transport projects and improve urban mobility.

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Key Road Section Closed for Repairs with Traffic Diversions in Ulaanbaatar

Published: 2025-08-11

A major segment of Dorj Street, stretching from the Monel intersection to the Tsaiz Market intersection, will be closed to all traffic from 11:00 PM on August 13 until 6:00 AM on August 16 for asphalt resurfacing and road marking works. This closure is part of ongoing infrastructure upgrades in Ulaanbaatar aimed at improving road quality and safety. Authorities have advised drivers to use alternative routes during this period to minimize congestion and delays. The temporary closure is expected to impact daily commutes and logistics in the eastern districts of the city, highlighting the importance of timely infrastructure maintenance in supporting urban mobility and economic activity. No official statements or personal comments were included in the source articles.

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Key Segments of Ulaanbaatar-Dalanzadgad-Mandalgovi Highway Closed for Repairs

Published: 2025-08-11

Authorities have partially closed sections of the Ulaanbaatar-Dalanzadgad-Mandalgovi national highway to repair damage caused by heavy mining transport, which has increased accident risks. The Ministry of Road and Transport announced that specific stretches, including 198-203 km and 207-210 km on the Ulaanbaatar-Mandalgovi route, will be closed between September 15 and October 15, with traffic rerouted via temporary roads. On the Mandalgovi-Dalanzadgad route, closures between 73-80 km, 89-96 km, 96-105 km, and 80-89 km will occur in stages through early October. Drivers are urged to use caution and adjust speed on detours. These repairs are critical for maintaining road safety and supporting the region’s vital mining logistics, as the highway is a key artery for both local and industrial transport.

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Consortium Selected to Build Power Plant and Water Treatment Facility for Emeelt Eco Industrial Park

Published: 2025-08-11

Authorities have selected a consortium of "Hua Zi Technology" (HNAC Technology Co., Ltd) and "Hua Shi Energy Industry" (China Western Power Industrial Co., Ltd) as the EPC+F contractor for constructing a 24 MW thermal power plant and a wastewater treatment facility at the Emeelt Eco Industrial Park, located 30 km from Ulaanbaatar. The park, spanning 539 hectares in Khan-Uul District, is designed to relocate leather processing industries from the city center, aiming to reduce environmental pollution and modernize industrial technology. A four-story business incubator and training-production center is already operational. Additionally, with support from the South Korean government, a feasibility study is underway for a 10 MW solar power plant in partnership with Smart Energy Platform Group. The project is expected to enhance industrial competitiveness and improve living conditions for residents.

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Energy Ministry Outlines Measures to Secure Ulaanbaatar’s Winter Power and Heat Supply

Published: 2025-08-11

Following a major turbine failure at Ulaanbaatar’s Third Thermal Power Plant (TЭЦ-3) in June, Mongolia’s Energy Ministry has detailed a multi-pronged plan to ensure the capital’s electricity and heating needs are met for the 2025-2026 winter. The ministry aims to compensate for the lost 50MW capacity by accelerating the commissioning of Bөөрөлжүүтийн power plant’s second unit (150MW) within 2025, and by bringing new thermal plants online in Selenge (70MW) and Tosontsengel (22MW). If necessary, up to 80MW will be imported from China, with technical connections to be completed by September. For heat supply, the ministry will reconfigure TЭЦ-3 to produce heat only, and adjust Ulaanbaatar’s heating scheme to boost output from TЭЦ-4 and Amgalan plants. Energy Minister B.Choijilsuren stated:

"We have developed solutions to meet the increased demand and replace the recently lost 50MW of power for the coming winter season." - B. Choijilsuren, Energy Minister (gogo.mn)

The government has allocated 8.5 billion MNT for these upgrades, aiming to complete key works before November 1.

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Indian Firm Nears Completion of Feasibility Study for Tuul River Water Complex Project

Published: 2025-08-11

The Tuul River Water Complex project, aimed at securing long-term water supply for Ulaanbaatar and its satellite cities, is progressing with its technical and economic feasibility study now 90% complete. The study is being conducted by Kalpataru Projects International Limited (KPIL), an Indian company with extensive experience in water infrastructure. The project, estimated to cost between $200-300 million and financed through loans, will include the construction of a dam 685.15 meters long and 35.8 meters high, capable of storing 50–100 million cubic meters of water. Once implemented, the initiative is expected to fully resolve water supply issues for the capital and surrounding areas, maintain the Tuul River's flow, mitigate flood risks, and create a large water body with positive ecological impacts. KPIL has previously delivered water to over 15 million people globally, underlining its capacity for such large-scale projects.

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Altanbulag Border Crossing Expands Capacity with New Facilities

Published: 2025-08-11

The Altanbulag International Road Border Crossing in Selenge province has completed a major expansion, quadrupling its processing capacity. The project, part of the government's "New Revival Policy," introduces upgraded infrastructure, modern equipment, and streamlined customs procedures to meet international standards. The new passenger and cargo inspection complexes are now operational on a trial basis, with further enhancements to security and efficiency planned as additional monitoring equipment is installed. The expansion is expected to significantly improve cross-border trade and travel, providing a more comfortable and rapid experience for users. This development positions Altanbulag as a key gateway for Mongolia's northern trade routes, supporting economic growth and regional connectivity.

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Over 3,000 Land Plots Cleared for Urban Redevelopment in Ulaanbaatar

Published: 2025-08-11

Authorities in Ulaanbaatar have cleared 3,157 land plots across key districts as part of ongoing efforts to redevelop ger areas into residential zones. The initiative targets infrastructure improvements in Selbe, Khanin Material, and Sharkhad subcenters, facilitating new roads, utilities, schools, and kindergartens. In Selbe, 2,020 out of 2,206 affected plots have been vacated, while 216 of 232 plots have been cleared in the Khanin Material project. Road construction projects required the clearance of 497 plots, and 273 plots were vacated for social infrastructure such as schools and parking. The Tuul Expressway project has also begun, with 15 plots cleared in Songinokhairkhan district during the initial phase. These measures are expected to accelerate urban development and improve living standards in the capital, reflecting a broader push for modernization and infrastructure expansion.

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Society

Published: 2025-08-11

Police have identified a suspect in the theft of foreign currency equivalent to over 1 million MNT from a Japanese national in central Ulaanbaatar. The incident occurred on August 9 near the Ulaanbaatar Gallery, a busy public area in Sukhbaatar District. Authorities report that the victim was targeted while walking in the 8th khoroo, with the perpetrator exploiting the crowded environment. The case is currently under investigation by the Sukhbaatar District Police. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about pickpocketing in high-traffic urban locations, particularly those frequented by foreigners. Law enforcement agencies have reiterated the importance of vigilance in public spaces, noting that such crimes often occur where individuals are distracted or inattentive to their belongings. The swift identification of a suspect demonstrates increased police responsiveness to crimes affecting international visitors, a key consideration for public safety and the city’s reputation as a destination.

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Authorities Warn of Rental Scams as Student Housing Demand Rises

Published: 2025-08-11

With the start of the academic year, demand for rental apartments in Ulaanbaatar increases, particularly among students arriving from rural areas. This seasonal surge has led to a spike in rental scams, especially schemes where fraudsters collect advance payments under the pretense of offering apartments for rent. In August of the previous year, police registered 62 cases of rental fraud, with 39 involving advance payments for non-existent properties. Authorities urge prospective tenants to verify property ownership, avoid transferring rental payments in advance, and ensure contracts are notarized. The Financial Regulatory Commission recommends using licensed real estate agencies to minimize risk. Law enforcement emphasizes the importance of vigilance:

"Do not transfer rental payments in advance, always notarize rental agreements, and verify property registration documents to avoid becoming a victim of fraud." - Police Authority (gogo.mn)

These precautions are critical as fraudulent listings and scams are expected to rise during the student influx period.

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Emergency Services Respond to 73 Incidents as Fire and Water Hazards Rise

Published: 2025-08-11

Mongolia's emergency services responded to 73 incidents nationwide over the past week, with 53 cases involving structural fires and additional incidents linked to wildfires, severe storms, and flooding. Authorities in Ulaanbaatar and 18 provinces managed to rescue six individuals and safeguard property valued at 2.1 billion MNT. Water safety remains a critical concern, as rescue teams along major rivers prevented four drownings and issued safety advisories to over 57,000 citizens. Officials urge travelers to use certified roads and bridges, and to remain vigilant during sudden storms and heavy rainfall. The National Emergency Management Agency continues to emphasize the importance of public awareness and preparedness to mitigate risks associated with natural and human-caused hazards.

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Court Orders New Trial for Former Railway Executive’s Son in Money Laundering Case

Published: 2025-08-11

The case against J. Garid, son of a former head of Ulaanbaatar Railway (UBTZ), will proceed to a new trial after the appellate court overturned a previous decision to return the case for further investigation. Garid is accused of using his company to secure a lucrative contract with UBTZ in 2017, allegedly leveraging his father’s position, and subsequently laundering approximately $600,000 through international transfers and real estate purchases in Mongolia. The prosecution argued that sufficient evidence and witness statements had already been collected, and that Garid had previously admitted guilt and requested a simplified trial procedure. The appellate court’s decision nullifies the earlier order for additional investigation, requiring the primary court to now rule on Garid’s criminal liability. This development underscores ongoing scrutiny of corruption and money laundering in Mongolia’s state-linked enterprises.

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Environment

Government Orders Halt to Hay Exports and Urges Winter Preparations as Drought Risks Mount

Published: 2025-08-11

Mongolia’s State Emergency Commission convened to address severe drought conditions affecting 30% of the country, raising concerns over the 2025-2026 winter. Officials reported that western and central provinces face heightened risks of poor harvests and livestock feed shortages. The government has mandated immediate cessation of natural hay and forage exports to prioritize domestic needs, especially in Sukhbaatar, Khentii, and Dornod provinces.

"We have decided to immediately stop the export of natural green grass and forage. We must prepare reserves for domestic use," - Deputy Prime Minister S. Amarsaikhan (ikon.mn)

Authorities are organizing the relocation of approximately one million livestock to designated winter pastures and accelerating the import of fortified feed. Energy sector preparations are also underway, with upgrades to power plants and plans to add new capacity by December. The government has instructed all local administrations to finalize winter readiness plans by mid-September and to communicate risk assessments to the public. These measures aim to mitigate the impact of drought-induced shortages and ensure food and energy security through the coming winter.

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$13 Million Greenhouse Project Launched in Shuvuun Fabrik with KOICA Partnership

Published: 2025-08-11

A $13 million greenhouse agriculture project will be implemented in Shuvuun Fabrik, Khan-Uul District, through a partnership between the district authorities and South Korea's KOICA international agency. The initiative aims to establish modern greenhouse infrastructure and food storage facilities to address Ulaanbaatar's ongoing shortage of locally grown vegetables. The project was initially planned with a $4 million budget, but expanded following research and consultations with international organizations.

"The project was originally planned with $4 million in funding, but based on the needs of city residents and joint studies with international organizations, it was confirmed at $13 million." - A. Amartuvshin, Deputy Mayor for Social Sector, Green Development, and Environmental Pollution (unuudur.mn)

Currently, 89 enterprises and 445 individuals operate greenhouses on 50.1 hectares in the capital, but this output falls short of demand. The new project is expected to enable Ulaanbaatar to fully meet its domestic vegetable needs.

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EU-Funded Project Seeks Media Partner for Green Economy Campaigns

Published: 2025-08-11

The EU-financed "Green Economic Transition" (SOGE) project, implemented by People in Need (PIN) and partners, has announced a tender for professional media and marketing services. The initiative aims to promote circular economy principles among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Mongolia's food and beverage sector, while fostering sustainable consumption habits among the public. The project will organize four major public events targeting youth, families, and regional communities, focusing on behavioral change and awareness-raising. Activities include interactive seminars on green entrepreneurship, household sustainability practices, and regional showcases of local green business solutions. The selected media partner will be responsible for developing and disseminating high-quality multimedia content to support these campaigns. Proposals are due by August 20, 2025. The project underscores the importance of public engagement in advancing a greener, more sustainable economy through coordinated outreach and education.

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Innovation

Digital Enrollment Opens for First Grade in Public Schools

Published: 2025-08-11

The digital registration process for first grade admission to state-owned general education schools begins nationwide on August 12 and continues until August 26, utilizing the E-Mongolia platform. Parents and guardians must ensure their residency registration is up to date, particularly for temporary residents, who are required to register in their current district and verify their status before applying. Only children born between January 1 and December 31, 2019, are eligible for this intake. The Ministry of Education has emphasized the importance of accurate residency documentation and warned against fraudulent address changes or rental agreements. This move is part of broader efforts to digitize public services and streamline school admissions, reflecting Mongolia’s ongoing digital transformation in public administration. The process aims to reduce paperwork and improve transparency for families across the country.

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Australian Smart School of Ulaanbaatar Launches Dual-Certificate Program for New Academic Year

Published: 2025-08-11

The Australian Smart School of Ulaanbaatar has opened enrollment for the upcoming academic year, introducing a dual-certificate program in partnership with Australia’s Entrepreneur Academy. The curriculum offers finance and information technology tracks for grades 9-12, granting graduates both Australian and Mongolian certificates, as well as bilingual proficiency in English and Mongolian. This qualification enables direct entry or scholarship opportunities at universities in ten countries, including the US, UK, and Australia. The program emphasizes practical skills in artificial intelligence, blockchain, and personal finance, with hands-on experience using tools like Google Workspace and Canva AI. Classrooms are equipped with MAXHUB smart screens, and science lessons dedicate up to 50% of instructional time to experiments. The school’s central location in Ulaanbaatar and dedicated student transportation aim to minimize commute times and enhance safety. Enrollment is open for all grades, with limited class sizes.

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Health

Schools and Kindergartens Face Shortages of Psychologists, Doctors, and Nutritionists for 2025-2026 Academic Year

Published: 2025-08-11

A recent report from the General Education Agency highlights significant staffing shortages in Mongolia's schools and kindergartens for the 2025-2026 academic year. Nationwide, there is a need for 462 psychologists, 985 doctors, and 463 nutritionists across general education schools and kindergartens. The shortages are particularly acute in rural areas, where 371 psychologists, 245 doctors, and 357 nutritionists are required for schools, and 329 doctors for kindergartens. In Ulaanbaatar, schools need 91 psychologists, 110 doctors, and 106 nutritionists, while kindergartens require 301 doctors. With over 895 schools and 1,400 kindergartens expected to operate, only about half currently have access to these essential professionals. This gap may impact student well-being and the quality of health and nutrition services in educational institutions, underscoring the need for targeted recruitment and policy intervention.

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City Residents Spend ₮23.8 Billion on Cold and Flu Medication as Vaccination Campaign Announced

Published: 2025-08-11

Ulaanbaatar authorities have announced that a citywide vaccination campaign will begin on August 15, following a year in which residents spent ₮23.8 billion on cold and flu medications. The city government plans to allocate ₮2 billion for the upcoming vaccination effort, urging citizens to participate actively to protect both their finances and health. The move highlights the significant economic burden of seasonal illnesses on urban households and signals a shift toward preventive healthcare. Officials recommend that parents ensure their children are vaccinated, as the city aims to reduce both medical expenses and the public health impact of flu outbreaks.

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Hungarian Muscle Relaxant Injection Recalled Over Safety Concerns

Published: 2025-08-11

The Mongolian Agency for Medicines and Medical Devices (ЭЭХХЗГ) has announced the urgent recall of Midocalm 100mg+2.5mg/ml injectable solution, batch A45009A, following a notification from the local representative of Hungary’s Gedeon Richter. The recall was prompted after the manufacturer detected an unknown impurity in the active ingredient tolperisone hydrochloride during routine safety monitoring. Distribution, sale, and use of the affected product must cease immediately, with all healthcare providers, pharmacies, and suppliers instructed to comply. The recall is set to be completed globally by June 21. The product is distributed in Mongolia by several major pharmaceutical companies. The recall underscores the importance of ongoing pharmacovigilance and may impact availability of muscle relaxants in the local market.

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Occupational Disease Hospital Nears Completion as Authorities Push for Opening

Published: 2025-08-11

The new eight-story Occupational Disease Research Hospital, initiated following a government decision in November 2023, is now 95% complete. However, delays in investment have postponed its opening. The sector minister has instructed relevant officials to resolve outstanding funding issues and ensure the facility is operational within this month. The hospital is expected to play a key role in Mongolia's efforts to modernize workplace safety and health systems. Dr. D. Naransukh, head of the Center for Occupational Safety and Health, emphasized the broader reforms underway:

"We are implementing systemic reforms in the sector to establish a preventive system linked to insurance and oversight for industrial accidents and occupational diseases. The new hospital is essential to intensify prevention efforts and address these issues more comprehensively." - Dr. D. Naransukh, Center for Occupational Safety and Health (unuudur.mn)

A revised draft law on occupational safety and hygiene is also ready for parliamentary discussion, signaling a coordinated push to improve worker health protections.

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