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Mongolia Daily: CHP-3 to restore heat as output halves, Cabinet OKs Zamiin-Uud–Erenhot zone, and PM moves to name Enkhbayar justice minister

MongoliaDaily

Politics

Cabinet Reviews 2026 Foreign Worker Quotas, China Border Economic Zone Plan, and DCS-3 Restoration Progress

Published: 2025-10-01

Mongolia’s Cabinet convened to set 2026 limits and sectoral shares for foreign labor, signaling potential adjustments to work permit availability across mining, construction, and services. Ministers also reviewed a general plan to co-develop the Zamyn-Uud–Erenhot economic cooperation zone with China—an initiative expected to streamline logistics and cross-border trade—and a bilateral road transport agreement with Croatia aimed at facilitating international freight and passenger movement. Social policy items included updating assistance rules for persons with disabilities and revising investment rules for the Social Insurance Fund’s idle balances. Procurement process improvements and upgrades to the 11-11 public feedback system were presented, alongside an update on restoration at Thermal Power Plant No. 3 (DCS-3), a key asset for Ulaanbaatar’s winter heat supply. Decisions and quota figures were pending at time of writing.

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PM Moves to Appoint B. Enkhbayar as Justice Minister as Ruling Party Splits Over Coal Probe

Published: 2025-10-01

Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar has initiated the appointment of MP B. Enkhbayar as Minister of Justice and Home Affairs, submitting the proposal to the President and scheduling presentation to Parliament on October 2. The move follows intensified scrutiny of “Erdenes Tavantolgoi” operations and allegations linking Speaker D. Amarbayasgalan to coal-related wrongdoing—claims now fueling an internal split in the ruling party and talk of a no-confidence push. Legal debate has emerged over whether the PM’s announcement preempted formal procedures; officials say the process will proceed under constitutional provisions. Enkhbayar, a former justice minister who led 2023 coal hearings, declares modest assets per his latest disclosure. Political risk is rising as the 2026 budget enters debate and factions mobilize.

“I am appointing MP B. Enkhbayar as Minister of Justice under my constitutional authority to intensify the fight against coal theft.” - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (news.mn)

“Some MPs began drafting grounds to dismiss the Prime Minister from yesterday.” - MP N. Nomtoibayar (itoim.mn)

“The PM’s decision cannot be reversed; the remaining step is to present it to the President and Parliament.” - MP D. Tsogtbaatar (news.mn)

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Parliamentary Panel Tightens Oversight of Oyu Tolgoi as Ministers Seek Contract Revisions

Published: 2025-10-01

A parliamentary temporary oversight committee advanced scrutiny of Oyu Tolgoi operations, moving into closed session to appoint inspectors, experts, and revise its working group before approving a resolution to compel evidence from the State Property Policy and Coordination Agency. The committee aims to examine documents and governance arrangements to boost Mongolia’s share of benefits. Industry and Minerals Minister G. Damdinyam said talks include adding independent board members and revisiting governance under “103,” noting a court decision curtailed protective powers of the state’s three board representatives.

“The Oyu Tolgoi agreement is not immutable; we have full authority to seek changes, and we are working to create advantages for the Mongolian side.” - G. Damdinyam, Minister of Industry and Minerals (news.mn)

Committee chair O. Batnairamdal highlighted concerns over the Ontra licenses, financing flows, and marketing rights, contrasting Ontra’s borrowing cost with Oyu Tolgoi’s higher intercompany interest and flagging undisclosed 2011 amendments to a shareholders’ agreement for further review.

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Foreign Ministry Lifts Aid Fund for Citizens Abroad to MNT 715 Million in 2026 Budget Plan

Published: 2025-10-01

Parliament’s Standing Committee on Security and Foreign Policy reviewed the 2026 budget proposal, where Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg outlined expanded support for Mongolian nationals overseas. The ministry plans to raise the Assistance Fund for Citizens Abroad to MNT 715 million, up from prior allocations of MNT 200–300 million, primarily to cover repatriation of remains, emergency travel for stranded citizens, and consular visits to detainees. She noted recent limited backing for diaspora-led cultural, sports, and academic initiatives, including Mongolian studies and language centers, within promotional budgets.

“We were unable to help our citizens abroad for many years… In 2026 we have budgeted MNT 715 million for the Assistance Fund, mainly to support citizens in distress overseas, including repatriation of remains and emergency travel costs.” - Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg (eagle.mn)

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Lawmaker Moves to Challenge Coal Royalty Decision Over Alleged Budget Loss

Published: 2025-10-01

MP P. Sainzorig accused the government of violating the Constitution and fiscal laws by approving an August 20 resolution that changes the methodology for calculating mineral royalties (AMNAT) on coal exports. He argues the measure favors select firms by allowing exporters to avoid paying 5% AMNAT on the price gap between Mongolian exchange prices (about $90/t with transport) and China’s Gantsmod border price (about $135/t), potentially reducing budget revenues by roughly MNT 200 billion through year-end. The cabinet reportedly used a Supreme Court directive—requiring updates to a 2016 resolution related to fluorspar by February 3, 2025—as a basis for a four-month, broader change. Sainzorig plans to petition the Constitutional Court and seek accountability from the mining minister if the decision is not reversed.

“No one should ever siphon off revenue due to the state budget. If the government does not fix this, I will take it to the Constitutional Court.” - MP P. Sainzorig (urug.mn)

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MP Urged to Name Colleagues Allegedly Given Cash-Filled Bags by Chinese Contacts

Published: 2025-10-01

Parliamentarian D. Enkhtuushin alleged that some lawmakers received cash-filled bags from Chinese counterparts, framing it as a national security risk and potential leverage over decision-makers. He suggested specific names are known within political circles and urged accountability during a period of internal party contention. The allegation, if substantiated, could trigger ethics probes, law enforcement action, and scrutiny of foreign influence in legislative processes. It also underscores rising sensitivity around corruption and external interference in Mongolia’s politics and policymaking. The article calls on Enkhtuushin to publicly identify those implicated, invoking lawmakers’ oath-bound duty.

“There is documented evidence that cash-filled bags were delivered to members of Parliament… This puts the country in a bind and harms national security.” - MP D. Enkhtuushin (news.mn)

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MP N. Nomtoibayar Weighs Position as Move to Oust Prime Minister Circulates in Parliament

Published: 2025-10-01

A bid to remove the Prime Minister has begun circulating among lawmakers in the State Palace, with proponents drafting grounds for dismissal and canvassing support. MP N. Nomtoibayar said colleagues approached him to back the initiative, but he is withholding a stance until he assesses the political context after returning from regional work. He emphasized resolving ruling party matters internally rather than escalating them into a broader state crisis, signaling possible intra-party tensions that could shape the motion’s trajectory and timeline.

“They asked my position. I need to be fully informed. I said I had just returned from working in the provinces and must assess the real political situation before stating my view. Issues should be resolved within the party; there’s no need to turn this into a state ordeal.” - MP N. Nomtoibayar (eagle.mn)

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Election Body Seeks Full Funding to Replace 3,000 Vote-Counting Machines for 2026–2028 Polls

Published: 2025-10-01

Parliament is debating the 2026 state budget as the General Election Commission (GEC) warns that failure to fully fund replacement of vote-counting machines could undermine upcoming elections. GEC chair P. Delgernaran said 3,000 new devices are required after equipment bought in 2012 exceeded its service life—extended three times—and 2,493 units are already decommissioned. The GEC estimates MNT 41.72 billion is needed, but the Finance Ministry has allocated MNT 12.52 billion for about 1,000 machines in the draft budget. The commission argues partial funding risks reliability and training timelines for the 2027–2028 elections.

“If we extend their use again, voters will not trust the machines; suspicions will arise. We must replace them, and delaying further leaves no time for software and training.” - P. Delgernaran, GEC chair (eagle.mn)

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Economy

Central Bank Submits 2026 Monetary Policy Blueprint, Eyes Lower Inflation Target and Stablecoin Study

Published: 2025-10-01

The Bank of Mongolia submitted its 2026 monetary policy guidelines to Parliament, outlining a tighter inflation anchor, macro‑prudential coordination, and financial sector reforms. The central bank plans to stabilize inflation around 5% (+/‑2 pp) over the medium term, lowering the current 6% midpoint target to 5% from 2027. Policy will maintain a flexible exchange rate aligned with fundamentals and strengthen communication to guide expectations. Banking supervision will be further aligned with international standards, including updates to anti–money laundering and counter‑terrorist financing policy based on FATF recommendations. The roadmap advances payment system regulation under digitalization, with a study on recognizing stablecoins as a payment instrument. Legal reforms aim to reduce non‑performing loans by creating an asset management framework and to widen access to business credit by diversifying loan products and easing constraints following sectoral needs. No direct quotes were provided in the sources.

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Central Bank and EBRD unveil assessment on reducing bank ownership concentration

Published: 2025-10-01

The Bank of Mongolia and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development presented findings from a joint assessment on strategies to reduce ownership concentration in the banking sector. Conducted by Ernst & Young as an independent consultant, the study evaluated governance and operational changes since commercial banks shifted to joint-stock company structures, and outlined potential regulatory amendments and strategic options to further diversify ownership. The results were discussed in an open forum with the Bank of Mongolia’s leadership, EBRD representatives, the American Chamber of Commerce, commercial bank executives, investors, and other sector participants. The initiative signals continued post-IPO governance reforms in Mongolia’s banking sector, with the central bank considering legal and policy adjustments to deepen market participation and mitigate systemic risks. No specific timeline or draft amendments were disclosed during the presentation.

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Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi Sells 1.22 Million Tons of Coal in Single-Day MSE Trades

Published: 2025-10-01

State-owned miner Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi executed four successful coal auctions on the Mongolian Stock Exchange, selling 1.22 million tons for USD 62.3 million. Seven buyers participated. The deals included delivery to China’s Gantsmod port for 512,000 tons of 1/3 coking coal and 512,000 tons of thermal coal, plus 192,000 tons of thermal coal for delivery to Mandal port. The performance outpaced the company’s August 13 result, when three trades moved 595,200 tons for USD 43.8 million. The latest sales underscore sustained demand across both coking and thermal segments and reflect continued use of exchange-based, port-delivered contracts that streamline logistics into northern China, a key market for Mongolian coal exports.

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Government Launches Negotiations to Set State Stake in Oyu Tolgoi-Licensed “Ontre” as Mongolia Finalizes Its Own Financial Model

Published: 2025-10-01

The Cabinet formed a high-level task force to determine the state’s equity in “Ontre” LLC, which holds mining licenses within the Oyu Tolgoi deposit area, and to negotiate terms with investors before submitting proposals to Parliament. The group, led by the Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, includes top economic, fiscal, legal, and environmental officials, with Erdenes Mongol’s CEO as secretary. Erdenes Oyu Tolgoi was instructed to produce legal analyses on Ontre’s licenses, while Erdenes Mongol will table financial scenarios for talks. After five months of review, the government says it has corrected errors in legacy calculations and, for the first time, built its own Oyu Tolgoi financial model aligned with the FAST standard and informed by comparative data from TSX-listed “Antre Gold.” Sub-working groups will mirror the approach used in a recent Mongolia–France uranium investment agreement. “Negotiations with Orona Mining will proceed based on the agreed principles and the finalized financial model,” - Minister G. Damdinyam (gogo.mn)

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VAT E-Receipt Registration for Q3 Refunds Closes October 8

Published: 2025-10-01

Mongolia’s General Tax Authority reminds taxpayers to register their Q3 2025 electronic payment receipts by 23:59:59 on October 8 to qualify for VAT refund incentives. The deadline applies to all eligible purchases recorded through the e-receipt system. For foreign-invested firms and professionals, timely submission ensures inclusion in the quarterly refund cycle, which is processed based on validated electronic receipts. Missing the cutoff may defer refunds to a later period or lead to ineligibility, depending on compliance checks. Businesses should verify that all receipts are uploaded and matched to taxpayer accounts in the e-barimt platform, and that any system discrepancies are corrected before the cutoff. No senior officials were quoted in the announcement, and no changes to refund rates or eligibility criteria were indicated in the notice.

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Gold Price Hits Record $3,831 per Ounce as Rate-Cut Bets Lift Safe-Haven Demand

Published: 2025-10-01

Global gold prices surged to an all-time high of $3,831 per ounce, propelled by rising expectations that the U.S. Federal Reserve will cut interest rates, accelerating a shift into safe-haven assets. Analysts note December 2025 futures advanced 1.1% to $3,850.80, signaling sustained bullish sentiment in the coming months. Since the start of 2025, gold is up 45%, while silver gained 1.7% to $46.78 per ounce, a 14-year peak—broadening the rally across precious metals. The upswing is poised to benefit major miners such as Newmont and Barrick, and has fiscal implications for Mongolia, which has budgeted a $2,900/oz gold price in its 2026 plan. If spot prices stay elevated, mining revenues, export receipts, and related tax intakes could exceed projections, though volatility tied to U.S. policy shifts remains a key risk.

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Egg and Meat Prices Edge Up in Ulaanbaatar as Vegetables Ease; Fuel Cheaper in Provinces

Published: 2025-10-01

Mongolia’s National Statistics Office (NSO) reported mixed food price movements as of September 29, 2025. In Ulaanbaatar’s major markets, average prices show eggs at MNT 615 per piece, mutton at MNT 16,622/kg, beef at MNT 20,841/kg, and goat meat at MNT 12,637/kg, while key vegetables such as onions eased to MNT 3,856/kg. First-grade flour sold for MNT 2,459/kg, loose milk MNT 4,804/liter, sugar MNT 4,952/kg, rice MNT 4,913/kg, and domestic potatoes MNT 2,233/kg. In aimag centers, meat remains cheaper than in the capital—mutton at MNT 13,398/kg, beef at MNT 17,533/kg, goat at MNT 11,603/kg—while staples varied: flour MNT 2,715/kg, milk MNT 3,810/liter, sugar MNT 4,186/kg, rice MNT 4,068/kg. Fuel prices in aimag centers stood at MNT 2,797/liter for AI-92, MNT 2,611 for A-80, and MNT 3,140 for diesel. The NSO noted some key items fell 0.2% week-on-week and 0.7% month-on-month, indicating slight easing in overall basket costs.

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Tender Rules and Foreign Participation Squeeze Local Builders in Major Projects

Published: 2025-10-01

Mongolia’s construction sector has expanded rapidly, yet local manufacturers and contractors say procurement rules are sidelining them in favor of foreign suppliers and workforces. Industry sources argue tender thresholds—such as annual supply requirements near 1 million tons—exclude most domestic plants despite more than 200 registered materials producers. Foreign companies now handle about half of large infrastructure and housing builds, while imports dominate most materials except cement (60–70% locally supplied). The flagship “Building Expo” has also internationalized, with only around a quarter of participants reportedly Mongolian at a recent fair. Sector output reached MNT 9.1 trillion in 2024, up from MNT 7.5 trillion in 2023, employing roughly 96,000 workers. Stakeholders urge calibrated tender criteria and reserved shares for domestic firms, citing international models in Kenya, Tanzania, and Russia that pair standards with finance, training, and tax relief.

“Not every local product is poor quality, nor are all foreign products superior; yet many tenders default to international bids, bringing in large numbers of foreign crews.” - Mongolian building materials manufacturer (unuudur.mn)

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Toronto Retail Launch Showcases Cashmere and Wool Brands from Small Mongolian Producers

Published: 2025-10-01

A new retail outlet, “Mongolian Gallery,” opened in Toronto on September 26, 2025, aiming to introduce cashmere and wool products from Mongolia’s small and medium-sized manufacturers to Canadian consumers. The store aggregates knitwear such as sweaters and vests from domestic producers, seeking to convert rising export momentum into market share in Canada. Despite recent growth, Mongolian cashmere currently supplies only 0.8% of Canada’s imports in this category. The initiative’s backers see scope to capture 5–10% of the market by highlighting product attributes—warmth, softness, and durability—and improving brand recognition and retail access. The effort aligns with Mongolia’s broader strategy to move up the value chain by exporting finished cashmere goods, diversifying beyond raw material sales, and testing demand in North America’s premium apparel segment.

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Tourism Push ‘Go Mongolia’ Credited with Record Visitors and $1.6B Turnover, Ex-Minister Defends Costs

Published: 2025-10-01

Former culture and tourism minister and current MP Ch. Nomin defended the multi‑year “Go Mongolia” branding program, arguing it drove a historic 800,000 tourist arrivals and $1.6 billion in economic turnover in one year—roughly equal to about 20% of projected 2025 budget revenues. She said the campaign spans 2021–2026 with contracts through 2026, partnering with outlets like CNN, BBC, and Time, and claims broader gains including improved credit metrics and a 14% rise in Mongolia’s Soft Power index. Nomin acknowledged South Korean arrivals fell by around 50,000 but urged sustained global promotion. She also addressed controversy over esports team The MongolZ, stating no state funds were paid during her tenure and that national team status was granted mainly to ease visa issues.

“Tourism generated, in a single year, an amount nearly equal to 20% of budget revenues—this is the tangible result of Go Mongolia.” - MP Ch. Nomin (gogo.mn)

“The MongolZ did not receive any money from the budget during my time; national team status was to help with visas, not funding.” - MP Ch. Nomin (gogo.mn)

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Securities Regulator Signs MoU with Korea Securities Finance to Develop Securities Lending Framework

Published: 2025-10-01

Mongolia’s Financial Regulatory Commission (FRC) signed a memorandum of understanding with Korea Securities Finance Corporation (KSFC), paving the way to introduce securities lending and borrowing regulations and to access technical and economic advisory support. The FRC says the framework aims to diversify the capital market, boost trading activity, and improve liquidity. The MoU also covers information sharing, and medium- to long-term training programs for FRC specialists, while KSFC experts will provide capacity-building for market participants. This partnership signals a push to align Mongolia’s market infrastructure with regional practices, potentially enabling more sophisticated trading strategies and risk management. It may also attract institutional participation as operational know-how and regulatory clarity improve. No direct implementation timelines were disclosed, but the agreement establishes a platform for phased regulatory development and market training.

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Diplomacy

Cabinet Approves Master Plan to Jointly Develop Zamiin-Uud–Erenhot Economic Cooperation Zone

Published: 2025-10-01

The Cabinet approved a master plan to jointly develop the Zamiin-Uud–Erenhot Economic Cooperation Zone under the bilateral agreement establishing the zone between Mongolia and China. Implementation measures were assigned to Deputy Prime Minister S. Amarsaikhan and Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg, while all cabinet members were instructed to coordinate within their mandates on free zone infrastructure in line with relevant laws. The plan signals a push to formalize cross-border industrial, logistics, and trade facilitation at Mongolia’s busiest land gateway to China. It is expected to align customs, transport, and investment procedures and support free zone construction, potentially easing congestion and accelerating throughput for exporters and importers. No timeline or budget details were disclosed in the reports, but the designation of senior officials to lead suggests near-term action on regulatory and project coordination.

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Published: 2025-10-01

A Lao National Assembly delegation led by Vongsak Phanthavong met with Deputy Speaker Kh. Bulgantuya and MPs in Ulaanbaatar, focusing on elevating bilateral ties and resolving transport barriers that limit trade and tourism. Both landlocked countries are exploring a direct air route to boost connectivity. Bulgantuya underscored the strategic value of Laos in Southeast Asia and highlighted air links as a practical step to grow commerce and travel.

“Although far apart, our countries have supported each other and developed mutually beneficial cooperation; opening an air route could improve tourism and trade flows.” - Deputy Speaker Kh. Bulgantuya (unuudur.mn)

Phanthavong raised upgrading relations to a comprehensive partnership and called for attention to logistics as trade expands. The visit comes as Laos streamlines government ministries from 17 to 13, prepares for parliamentary elections next year, and marks the 50th anniversary of its independence in December.

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Infrastructure

Ulaanbaatar’s CHP-3 to Restore Heat Supply This Winter as Power Output Halves During Repairs

Published: 2025-10-01

Following a June turbine-generator failure at Combined Heat and Power Plant No. 3 (CHP-3), the government’s plenipotentiary representative N. Tavinbekh said three of five restoration workstreams will be finished before peak winter demand, with overall progress at about 90%. Heat supply to Ulaanbaatar is expected to return to normal seasonal levels, while electricity generation will operate at roughly 50% of last winter’s output, with the shortfall covered by alternative sources. Authorities plan to complete the remaining two packages before next winter, citing equipment manufacturing and installation lead times. Tavinbekh warned the 58-year-old plant remains high-risk and requires broader renewal funding in the state budget.

“If peak winter demand does not exceed projections, electricity will not be rationed.” - N. Tavinbekh, Government Plenipotentiary for CHP-3 (ikon.mn)

“We are only renewing about 30% of the plant; the remaining 70% still needs replacement.” - N. Tavinbekh, Government Plenipotentiary for CHP-3 (eagle.mn)

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Ulaanbaatar Unveils Long-Term Mobility Strategy with Metro, Tram, BRT and Active-Transport Upgrades

Published: 2025-10-01

Ulaanbaatar authorities, backed by the World Bank and international partners, presented a Sustainable Urban Mobility Strategy to guide transport planning and investment through 2050. The plan aligns with the “20-minute city” model and the city’s 2040 master plan, proposing 42.1 km of metro lines across two corridors, a 10 km LRT, and 62.5 km of BRT, plus 165 phased projects through 2030, 2040 and 2050. It prioritizes regulatory and financing reforms, integrated ticketing, multimodal hubs, upgraded bus stops, and on-demand services. The city will expand and improve pedestrian and cycling networks, develop complete streets with green space, and bolster resilience via drainage upgrades and earthquake early warning. International consultants from Japan’s Almec and CTI Engineering led the strategy with World Bank support.

“We have followed the city’s first plan for 600,000 residents; failing to implement later plans, we collectively built a city unfriendly to people. Today marks the start of building an inclusive, green city.” - L. Khosbayar, project coordinator (montsame.mn)

“Seek long-term solutions, improve walkability and urban policy, and increase high-capacity public transport and freight capability.” - Katsuhide Nagayama, senior consultant, Almec (montsame.mn)

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Nighttime Closures on Yarmag–Ajilchny Corridor for Water Conduit Installation

Published: 2025-10-01

Ulaanbaatar will impose nighttime traffic closures on the Yarmag Bridge east approach toward Ajilchny Street as part of an ongoing road widening and upgrade in Khan-Uul District (2nd and 3rd khoroos). The segment from the MSM Group junction to the Lavai Market junction will be closed overnight on two occasions to install a clean-water infiltration/conduit system: 23:00 on Oct 3 to 06:00 on Oct 4, and again 23:00 on Oct 4 to 06:00 on Oct 5. Authorities advise drivers to use alternative routes during these windows. The works are part of broader infrastructure upgrades aimed at easing congestion on the rapidly developing southern corridor to the airport and new residential zones, minimizing daytime disruption by concentrating heavy works at night.

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Government Signals No Power or Heat Rationing if Demand Stays Within Forecasts

Published: 2025-10-01

Following a regular Cabinet meeting, senior officials briefed on decisions and energy supply expectations for the heating season. N. Tavinbekh, head of the operational headquarters at Thermal Power Plant No. 3 (TPP-3), said electricity and heat curbs are not anticipated provided consumption aligns with projections. His assurance suggests authorities are closely tracking seasonal demand and system capacity as winter approaches, a period when Mongolia’s grid typically faces peak loads. The update came alongside briefings by Health Minister J. Chinburen and Labor and Social Protection Minister T. Aubakir.

“There will be no restrictions on electricity or heat if consumption does not exceed our estimates.” - N. Tavinbekh, TPP-3 Emergency Headquarters (unuudur.mn)

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Emeelt Eco Industrial Park to Get 24 MW CHP Plant to Supply Power and Heat

Published: 2025-10-01

Ulaanbaatar’s 24 mega projects program includes a new combined heat and power (CHP) plant to serve the Emeelt Eco Industrial Park, planned on 539 hectares in Khan-Uul District’s 13th khoroo. The 24 MW facility will supply electricity, process steam, and hot water, with design completion slated for 2025, construction starting in 2026, and commissioning within two years. The plant is expected to burn 199,000–205,000 tonnes of coal annually to generate 156 million kWh of electricity and 265,600 Gcal of heat, and create 185 permanent jobs. Developers highlight modern emissions controls, full-combustion technology, and automated systems. Utility corridors for heating, hot water, potable water, power, and telecoms are planned in a shared tunnel network to support the park’s industrial tenants and reduce infrastructure disruption.

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Academician Urges Pivot to One Large State Power Plant in 2026–2030 Plan

Published: 2025-10-01

At a technical policy forum at the Mongolian Academy of Sciences, academician and state consulting engineer Kh. Enkhjargal urged the government to anchor the 2026–2030 development plan in rigorous research and prioritize a single large-capacity state power plant built at a domestic mine site to stabilize prices. He criticized chronic underinvestment in science—currently 0.02% of funding—and skepticism that pledges to raise it to 2% by 2030 will materialize, citing bureaucratic obstacles and unfulfilled promises of science parks. He called for an economic planning institute under the Academy to guide industrial siting and returns.

“Put roads and buildings on hold and build one big power plant. Only then can we cap costs; the Fourth Thermal Power Plant is carrying everything today.” - Kh. Enkhjargal, academician and state consulting engineer (gogo.mn)

He warned that relying on private tariff-setting would be unaffordable for consumers and argued energy policy should reflect global trends rather than demand-side curbs during peak hours.

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Environment

Dornod Raises Fire Alert as Drought Intensifies; Patrols and Firebreaks Deployed

Published: 2025-10-01

Mongolia’s weather agency has warned that Dornod Province is at a dangerous level of forest and steppe fire risk due to severe dryness. The agency reported dryness indices ranging from 2,963 to 4,012 across Halhgol, Dashbalbar, Bulgan, Khulunbuir, Sergelen, Gurvanzagal, Tsagaan-Ovoo, Chuluunkhoroot, Bayandun, and Matad. While the “extreme” threshold is 8,000, local authorities are treating current conditions as high-risk, activating preventive measures. From today, soum-level duty officers have been appointed to lead fire prevention patrols, and a 4.4 km by 15 m protective firebreak is being constructed near the provincial landfill to reduce ignition risk and spread. The heightened alert underscores increased vulnerability during the dry season, with local governments pivoting to early mitigation to protect infrastructure, grazing land, and cross-border steppe areas adjoining China and Russia.

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Innovation

E-Mongolia Platform Expands to 1,268 Digital Services Across 87 Agencies

Published: 2025-10-01

Mongolia’s unified e-government portal, E-Mongolia, now serves 2.1 million users with 1,268 services from 87 public institutions, according to state news agency Montsame. Launched on October 1, 2020 with 181 services, the platform has scaled rapidly, recording 85 million service transactions to date. Authorities say four out of five adults in the country actively use the platform, underscoring broad penetration beyond the capital. For businesses and residents, the expansion signals reduced paperwork, quicker turnaround for permits and certificates, and wider access to state services without in-person visits. Continued growth could support policy goals on transparency and service efficiency, though reliability, data protection, and interoperability with legacy systems remain critical for sustaining trust and usage as the platform matures.

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Global University Fair 2025 Brings 37 Institutions from 13 Countries to Ulaanbaatar

Published: 2025-10-01

An international higher education fair will convene at the International School of Ulaanbaatar on October 25–26, 2025, featuring representatives from 37 universities and colleges across 13 countries. The event offers prospective students and parents direct consultations on bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, and language preparation programs, including admissions criteria, tuition, financial aid, and scholarships. Participating institutions span Asia (including City University of Hong Kong, Osaka University, Singapore Management University, and The University of Utah Asia Campus), Europe (University of Glasgow, emlyon business school, Czech Technical University in Prague), and North America (University of Toronto, George Washington University, Fordham University). Entry is free; sessions run 14:00–18:00. The fair is organized by the Education Advising Resource Center (EARC) and the International School of Ulaanbaatar, with advance online registration available via the provided Google Form.

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Japan Job Fair 2025 Opens Registration for Mongolian University Students and Graduates

Published: 2025-10-01

Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry will host the Japan Job Fair 2025 for Mongolian university and technology college students and graduates interested in working in Japan. Ahead of the fair, three orientation seminars are scheduled: an online session on October 4, 2025 at 10:00 (registration via the poster QR code sends the seminar link by email) and an in-person briefing at the Mongolia–Japan Center on September 20, 2025 at 10:30. Seminar participants will receive company overviews, registration guidance, and detailed information on living and working in Japan. Registration for the job fair is available at https://japaninternshipglobal.go.jp/jobfair/formongolians-mn, with further updates via the event’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575958704824. The initiative signals growing Japan–Mongolia workforce pathways, particularly for skilled graduates seeking placements in Japan’s industries.

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E-Geree Digital Document Platform Advances to “Makers in China” Final After Regional Win in Hangzhou

Published: 2025-10-01

Mongolian startup E-Geree, a digital document and e-contract system, placed among the top three in the “Digital economy” category at the regional stage of the “Makers in China” competition in Hangzhou, securing a spot in the December final. The contest features startups from Mongolia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Russia. Finalists are competing for grants totaling over MNT 500 million for the top three projects, with additional funding of up to MNT 2.3 billion available for foreign startups registering and launching in Hangzhou, supported by the city government and investors. A win would grant E-Geree formal access to the Chinese market. E-Geree was previously recognized as Mongolia’s 2025 national innovation winner, signaling momentum in the country’s startup ecosystem and potential cross-border scale-up opportunities.

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Health

Flu Vaccination Drive Reaches 60% as Health Minister Flags Budget Discipline; Winter Power Cuts Ruled Out

Published: 2025-10-01

Mongolia’s seasonal flu campaign has reached about 60% of the 300,000 targeted doses, with Ulaanbaatar at 62% and rural areas around 57%. Priority uptake includes 60% of children aged 6 months–5 years (96,000 of 160,000), 62% of pregnant women, 50% of seniors over 65, and 72% of patients with chronic conditions; all primary school teachers are covered, while only 36% of health workers have been vaccinated. Coverage varies widely by region, led by Selenge (up to 97%) and lagging in Bayan-Ölgii (~20%). Health authorities say higher uptake could ease hospital loads as respiratory season intensifies and note measles cases have eased with school reopening. On financing, the minister signaled tighter discipline after the Health Insurance Fund front-loaded payments for 2024 debts, affecting private-provider reimbursements.

“If we don’t carry over this year’s insurance fund debts into next year, we can raise doctors’ salaries by about 10%. Financial discipline is crucial.” - Health Minister J. Chinbüren (news.mn)

Separately, officials stated winter electricity supply will be maintained without load-shedding as key repairs at Thermal Power Plant No. 3 near completion.

“There will be no electricity restrictions this winter.” - N. Tavinbekh, Plenipotentiary Representative, TPP-3 (news.mn)

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UNICEF Donates Tandem Mass Spectrometry to Launch Nationwide Newborn Metabolic Screening

Published: 2025-10-01

UNICEF has delivered a tandem mass spectrometry device to the National Center for Maternal and Child Health, introducing Mongolia’s first capability to screen newborns for 25–30 metabolic disorders from a single drop of blood. With over 67,000 births annually and limited diagnostic access, late detection has led to preventable, lifelong complications—about 900 cases over three decades, according to research. The 1.7 billion MNT purchase was funded via a private-sector–backed initiative led by UNICEF Health and Development Envoy N. Tselmuun, enabling delivery within two weeks of securing funds. Early diagnosis is expected to reduce disability and mortality risks and inform future expansion of neonatal screening.

“A new era of neonatal diagnostics has begun in Mongolia, and this shows how united private-sector efforts can quickly deliver tangible benefits for children’s health.” - Evariste Kouassi-Komlan, UNICEF Representative (gogo.mn)

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Health Minister Ousts Insurance Agency Chief, Cites Budget Leakages and Debt Risks

Published: 2025-10-01

Health Minister J. Chinburen dismissed the head of the Health Insurance General Authority (HIGAA), S. Enkhbold, and said a public competition will select a new chief with strong financial risk management credentials. The minister warned that the Health Insurance Fund has become opaque and debt-driven, with MNT 316 billion from the 2025 budget used to settle 2024 arrears—contributing to funding shortfalls and limiting room for a 10% wage increase for medical staff. He added that hospitals and suppliers face accumulating unpaid balances, including significant drug debts, risking supply disruptions. The ministry aims to end the practice of rolling over arrears and to allocate funding evenly across public and private providers to avoid service stoppages.

“The Health Insurance Fund cannot be a leaky bucket; spending must be transparent, fair, and evenly distributed across public and private providers.” - Health Minister J. Chinburen (news.mn)

“If we don’t carry 2025 debts into 2026, we could raise healthcare workers’ salaries by 10%.” - Health Minister J. Chinburen (ikon.mn)

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