Politics
Published: 2026-02-03
Anti-corruption investigators have released former acting head of the Mineral Resources and Petroleum Authority, Sh. Gankhuyag, from custody and placed him under travel and conduct restrictions while probing alleged illicit transfer of eight mining licenses tied to the Olon-Ovoot gold deposit. Authorities allege Gankhuyag unlawfully shifted permits from Mineral Exploration Funding’s portfolio to companies linked to the late Altjin Group founder’s son, Edward Suren, and received about MNT 2.5 billion in bribes that were laundered via a construction project in Chingeltei District. The case intersects with longstanding creditor claims: after Altjin Group entities accumulated over MNT 140 billion in debts, courts approved transferring eight pledged licenses to Mineral Exploration Funding, founded by Mongolian Asset Management Corporation. Recent 2024 cadastral decisions detail the formal handover of seven permits from Olon-Ovoot Gold LLC and one from Zuv Zug LLC to settle obligations.
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Erdenet-Bulgan Power Grid Executives Detained in Urgent Bribery Probe
Published: 2026-02-03
Mongolia’s anti-corruption agency has urgently detained three senior officials from the state-owned Erdenet-Bulgan Power Grid Joint Stock Company—CEO V. Adyaa, chief engineer B. Erdenetsogt, and project unit head Kh. Azjargal—following searches of their homes and offices. Investigators are examining allegations that the officials accepted large bribes from contractor companies while serving on a commission tasked with accepting a power plant under an electricity project. The case highlights ongoing scrutiny of procurement and acceptance processes in Mongolia’s energy sector, where state entities manage critical infrastructure and large capital projects. Detention at this stage signals the seriousness of the allegations and enables evidence preservation as the probe proceeds. Authorities have not disclosed the contractors’ identities or sums involved, and further updates are expected as the investigation advances.
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Anti-Corruption Hotline Changes to 11-10; Legacy 110 to Close in March 2026
Published: 2026-02-03
Mongolia’s Independent Authority Against Corruption has changed its reporting hotline from 110 to 11-10. Both numbers will operate in parallel until March 1, 2026, after which 110 will be discontinued and 11-10 will remain the standard contact. The shift formalizes a new dialing format intended to streamline public reporting of bribery and corruption cases. For businesses and residents, the overlap period reduces disruption while systems, directories, and internal compliance protocols are updated. Organizations should revise contact references, staff training materials, and incident-reporting procedures to reflect the new 11-10 hotline before the cutoff date. The authority emphasizes that callers can continue to report suspected corruption through the 11-10 number going forward.
Coverage:
Published: 2026-02-03
Justice and Home Affairs Minister B. Enkhbayar met World Justice Project (WJP) Asia-Pacific Director Srirak Plipat to discuss collaboration on anti-corruption and rule-of-law initiatives. Enkhbayar highlighted phased legal reforms aimed at strengthening fairness and protecting constitutional rights, noting plans to submit a revised Witness and Victim Protection Law and a new Whistleblower Protection bill to the spring parliamentary session, while streamlining citizen-facing procedures seen as burdensome. He signaled intent for close cooperation with WJP to achieve measurable outcomes. Plipat emphasized WJP’s data-driven approach to diagnosing country-specific issues and recommending targeted solutions, underscoring two decades of global experience in training, research, and rule-of-law assessments. The engagement suggests Mongolia is seeking external expertise to inform implementation and evaluation of governance reforms.
“We are implementing phased legal reforms to strengthen justice and ensure citizens’ constitutional rights, including submitting revised witness and victim protection and whistleblower protection bills this spring.” - Minister B. Enkhbayar (montsame.mn)
“WJP identifies country challenges through evidence-based analysis and proposes optimal solutions.” - Srirak Plipat, Asia-Pacific Director, WJP (montsame.mn)
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Draft Law Seeks Tighter Control of Narcotics as Cases Rise; Criminal Code Amendments Proposed
Published: 2026-02-03
Mongolia is preparing a comprehensive overhaul of its narcotics control regime as drug-related crimes and violations trend upward. Police handled 254 narcotics cases in 2024, up from 238 in 2023, with 51% of suspects aged 13–25. A task force formed by the Prime Minister has drafted a revised Law on Control of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, now posted by the Ministry of Justice and Home Affairs for public comment. The draft broadens legal definitions to cover synthetic and natural substances, precursors, and plants, and tightens licensing by barring personnel with substance dependence or prior violations. It also allows permitted research collection of narcotic plants, raising concerns about potential misuse. Accompanying Criminal Code amendments would introduce severe penalties, including 2–20 years for involving children in drug use, and criminalize cultivation, illicit processing, diversion by officials, and facilitation using premises or vehicles. Additional changes span procedural, administrative, advertising, and health legislation to close loopholes.
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Local Opposition Escalates Against Mining Projects as Legal Gaps Fuel Disputes
Published: 2026-02-03
A wave of local resistance to mining and energy projects is disrupting licensed operations and raising investor concerns, with residents in Khovd reportedly dismantling MNREC’s field camp near the Khalzan Buregtei rare earths site and staging protests. The article argues that fears over environmental harm, unequal benefit sharing, and organized pressure groups are driving confrontations, while Mongolia’s laws offer limited mechanisms for local consent once state agreements are signed. Authorities report 30,700 hectares of land degraded over three decades—much from small-scale or illegal mining—while major firms like Oyu Tolgoi and Erdenet have led recent rehabilitation. Community mistrust remains acute.
“We won’t allow mining near Khalzan Buregtei; rare earths contain radioactive elements and will harm pastures and health within 100 km.” - O., resident of Myangad soum (unuudur.mn)
“Instead of a few people stealing our resources, it’s better not to mine until future generations can develop them fairly.” - U. Chuluunbaatar, honored teacher and resident of Chingeltei District (unuudur.mn)
The piece urges government-led local agreements, transparency over revenues, and stronger engagement to protect national deals and avoid missing the global window for critical minerals development.
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Anti-Corruption Agency Flags Conflicts of Interest, Seeks Sanctions for Two Officials
Published: 2026-02-03
Mongolia’s Anti-Corruption Agency reported a week-long review of prospective public officials’ conflict-of-interest declarations, examining 583 preliminary statements and finalizing decisions on 230, with 623 candidates still under review. The agency notified appointing authorities about three nominees whose prospective roles would create clear conflicts of interest, signaling possible withdrawals or reassignment before formal appointments. Concurrently, the agency received 97 complaints related to corruption and conflicts involving public officials, resolving 15 cases. Following investigations, it referred two officials for disciplinary action to the relevant institutions. The agency also audited the asset and income disclosures of 13 officials based on scheduled inspections and citizen submissions. The update indicates heightened scrutiny of appointments and asset declarations, with immediate implications for personnel decisions and internal disciplinary processes across government entities.
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Drivers Who Flee Accident Scenes Face One-Year License Suspension and Fines
Published: 2026-02-03
Mongolia’s traffic police report 350–400 daily calls, with 10–15 incidents involving drivers intentionally fleeing accident scenes. Recent amendments to the Law on Infringements introduce stricter penalties: if the act does not rise to a criminal offense, offenders will have their driving privileges suspended for one year and be fined the monetary equivalent of 100 units. Authorities emphasize strict adherence to road rules and responsible conduct after accidents. For businesses and mobility-dependent sectors, the enforcement underscores growing regulatory focus on road safety and accountability, potentially affecting fleet management policies, driver training requirements, and insurance risk assessments. The change also signals increased scrutiny on post-accident procedures, with implications for corporate compliance and incident reporting standards.
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Economy
Government Clears International Tender Plan for $806M Integrated Steel Complex
Published: 2026-02-03
A government task force approved plans to launch an international tender to develop an integrated steel complex designed to produce 1 million tonnes annually, including rebar (500,000 t), billets (400,000 t), and grinding balls (100,000 t). The preliminary feasibility study estimates $806 million in investment and includes a coking unit to process 850,000 t of coking coal per year, generate 600,000 t of metallurgical coke, and produce 60 MW of electricity for on-site needs. Officials project the plant could meet 60–70% of domestic demand as Mongolia’s steel consumption is forecast to reach 1.7 million t by 2030. The government emphasized export orientation alongside import substitution, highlighting potential EU market access.
“We must develop the steel industry with an export focus. Mongolian-made steel can reach Europe in 10 days, while Chinese steel takes 60 days, giving us an advantage.” - Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources G. Damdinyam (gogo.mn)
“With demand rising, a one-million-tonne complex would allow domestic supply of rebar, grinding balls, and billets.” - G. Gankhuyag, Project Manager, Erdenes Industrial & Technology Park LLC (montsame.mn)
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Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi Sets Monthly Record with 2.04 Million Tons of Coal Sold to China Border
Published: 2026-02-03
Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi sold 2.04 million tons of coal in January under delivery terms to Chinese border ports, marking a new monthly high since it began exchange-based sales to border points in February 2023. The volume surpassed the previous record by 58,760 tons and positions potential revenue at $137.8 million. The company notes that, for the first time, monthly sales under border-delivery terms outpaced long-term contract sales, indicating improved logistics and execution for transport-to-border supply. The shift reflects Mongolia’s continued use of exchange pricing and border delivery to capture higher realized prices, streamline customs throughput, and reduce counterparty risk. For traders and buyers, the pattern suggests steadier spot availability and improved reliability on Gashuunsukhait–Ganqimaodu corridors, with implications for pricing benchmarks tied to Mongolian coking coal.
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Economists Split on Letting Foreign Banks Enter as Path to Lower Lending Rates
Published: 2026-02-03
Mongolian policymakers are considering allowing foreign banks to operate domestically to spur competition and reduce lending costs. Economist J. Delgersaikhan urged a cautious approach, emphasizing clarity on which banks might enter, their real impact on interest rates, and potential risks to the national financial system. Economist A. Tsagaanhuu argued that the sector suffers from concentration and entrenched practices, advocating for foreign participation at the shareholder level to improve lending conditions and corporate access to foreign finance. He criticized mortgage lending tied to bank-financed projects and said domestic firms remain stuck “between loans.” Economist B. Lkhagvajav linked high lending rates to policy choices and urged monetary easing and fiscal restraint:
“Set the policy rate to zero and commercial banks will do their job.” - Economist B. Lkhagvajav (news.mn)
Debate follows political signals supporting foreign bank entry, including references to potential Russian bank operations.
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Banks Tighten Pension Loan Rules, Requiring Co‑Borrowers for Terms Over 12 Months
Published: 2026-02-03
Several Mongolian commercial banks have begun requiring a guarantor or co‑borrower for pension loans exceeding 12 months, following the extension of loan terms to 36 months. State Bank and Khan Bank—two of the most widely used lenders—now mandate a co‑borrower when extending existing pension loans or issuing new ones beyond a year, reflecting stricter risk criteria as loan tenors lengthen and amounts rise. The Bank of Mongolia said it recognizes the banks’ approved procedures and emphasized that borrowing remains an individual choice. An independent member of the Monetary Policy Committee, B. Munkhzaya, backed tighter risk measures and criticized high reliance on subsidized borrowing:
“Removing caps and lengthening terms increases banks’ risk, so setting higher risk requirements is reasonable. The current 18% interest rate is high. Pension loans cannot be flattened into broad, low-cost social welfare.” - B. Munkhzaya, Independent MPC Member (isee.mn)
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Diplomacy
UN Desertification Chief Visits to Review COP17 Preparations and Urges Visa Facilitation
Published: 2026-02-03
UNCCD Executive Secretary Yasmine Fouad began an official visit to Ulaanbaatar on February 3–6 to review preparations for the UN Convention to Combat Desertification’s COP17, scheduled for August 17–28 in the capital. Her agenda includes meetings with senior government officials, diplomats, international partners, private sector, researchers, civil society, and youth to expand multi‑stakeholder cooperation against desertification, land degradation, and drought. During talks with Deputy Foreign Minister G. Amartuvshin, Fouad requested special attention to visa issuance for COP17 delegates, signaling a push to streamline entry and logistics for thousands of participants. The Foreign Ministry affirmed comprehensive support and closer coordination with the UNCCD Secretariat. Fouad also confirmed that the High-Level Segment of COP17 is set for August 23, anchoring the conference’s ministerial and top-level engagement.
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Parliament Speaker N. Uchral to Visit Russia for Energy and Mining Talks
Published: 2026-02-03
Parliament Speaker N. Uchral will make an official visit to Russia on February 4–9, marking his first overseas trip since taking office. The delegation will include sector ministers to conduct negotiations on fuel supply and electricity, with broader discussions covering energy and mining cooperation. The agenda signals a push to secure reliable energy inputs—particularly important given Mongolia’s dependence on Russian electricity imports and refined fuel supplies—while exploring solutions for pricing, volumes, and potential joint projects. Outcomes could affect power stability in Ulaanbaatar and fuel market dynamics, including logistics and cross-border flows. No detailed itinerary or counterpart meetings were disclosed, but the inclusion of energy and mining officials indicates a focus on near-term operational issues and longer-term strategic ties with Russia in critical infrastructure and resource sectors.
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UK Parliament Re-establishes All-Party Parliamentary Group on Mongolia
Published: 2026-02-03
The UK Parliament has reconstituted its All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Mongolia, holding an inaugural meeting on February 2 chaired by MP James Wild, with MP Catherine West as deputy chair and MP Dave Doogan and Baroness Northover as officers. Over 20 parliamentarians joined, alongside officials from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and the British Embassy in Ulaanbaatar. The APPG—first formed in 1995—aims to advance parliamentary dialogue on key areas including critical minerals, renewable energy, environment, women’s participation, and security, and to support government oversight and inquiries on Mongolia. The Mongolian Embassy in London framed the group’s re-establishment under tightened APPG membership rules as a signal of continued UK interest:
“The APPG’s formation under the revised rules shows the UK Parliament’s significant attention to Mongolia.” - Embassy of Mongolia in the UK (montsame.mn)
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Infrastructure
Ulaanbaatar’s Fifth Thermal Power Plant to Break Ground on February 15 under PPP Structure
Published: 2026-02-03
The government will start earthworks for the Fifth Thermal Power Plant on February 15 at the former TPP-2 ash site in Bayangol District, moving first to remove ash accumulated since 1961 before main construction begins in April. Planned capacity is 300 MW of electricity and 340 Gcal of heat, with 90% of power dispatched to the central grid and the rest for internal use. The $658.5 million project is a public–private partnership: 80% financed by private investors and 20% by the capital city, with a 2.5-year construction timeline and staged commissioning in 2028.
“Site clearance is essentially complete. We’ll haul away the 65 years of accumulated ash and start construction in spring. Boiler assembly will begin by July 22, and we aim to commission Block 1 around Lunar New Year 2028 and Block 2 in May.” - Kh. Nyambaatar, Ulaanbaatar Mayor (itoim.mn)
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Ulaanbaatar Expands Household Gas Program with 33 Filling Points; 390 Homes Connected So Far
Published: 2026-02-03
Ulaanbaatar is advancing a household gas transition targeting 5,000 ger-area homes in Zuragt, Gandan, and Bayankhoshuu this year, establishing 33 filling points—11 already operational—and connecting over 390 households. The city plans to accelerate daily hookups to 100–120 homes, with residents purchasing gas via the Hotula app using national ID and registered phone numbers. Authorities say installed 6 kW Hisense units for gers feature 14 safety sensors, double-walled flues drawing air from outside, and remote alerts to service centers in case of leaks. Households must complete their own insulation and apply through district/khoroo offices. Longer-term, the program aims to shift 46,000 households to gas by winter 2026–2027, a potential inflection point for air-quality gains in the capital.
“As of today, more than 390 households have switched to gas. The devices are designed with top-tier safety to prevent leaks and protect users.” - J. Erkhembayar, Engineering and Operations Department Head, Ulaanbaatar City Gas Supply and Management Agency (gogo.mn)
“Using gas means no coal, no smoke or soot. It’s easy to use and reasonably priced, with discounted rates in the first two months.” - D. Rentsendorj, resident of Chingeltei District’s 13th khoroo (ikon.mn)
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Groundwater Pumping at Ulaanbaatar Riverside Buildings Raises Structural and Water-Supply Risks
Published: 2026-02-03
An investigation highlights continuous groundwater pumping from buildings south of the Dund River in Khan-Uul District, where developers reportedly run dewatering systems year-round and discharge into the river. Authorities warn the practice depletes aquifers, heightens soil subsidence and flood risks, and may undermine structures. It could also reduce spring flows in the Tuul River, which supplies most of Ulaanbaatar’s drinking water. The Water Agency says roughly 30 buildings citywide are actively draining groundwater and, following a 2024 Supreme Court decision, such dewatering is now treated as water use subject to fees. Officials are weighing measures for riverside zones, including potential demolition of thousands of structures in protected areas if risks persist.
“By pumping out groundwater under buildings, we’re directly affecting the Tuul River and reducing future drinking water for our children. This also puts those buildings at risk.” - Z. Batbayar, head of the Water Agency (isee.mn)
“In 2024, the Supreme Court ruled that draining groundwater constitutes water use, and payments are now required.” - Z. Batbayar, head of the Water Agency (isee.mn)
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Ulaanbaatar Sets Height Caps for Ger District Redevelopment to Curb High-Rise Sprawl
Published: 2026-02-03
Ulaanbaatar Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar announced new planning limits to prevent high-rise overdevelopment in ger districts, following years of dense, poorly serviced construction in areas like Yarmag and Nisekh. The city will set maximum building heights in high-visibility zones such as Denjiin Myanga, Khailaast, and Chingeltei, denying permits for residential buildings above five floors, with specifics to be approved by the Citizens’ Representative Khural. Selected firms under an individual housing program would receive permits, and mortgage rules may be amended to include single-family homes. Officials argue infrastructure capacity and traffic have been strained by “redevelopment” projects that prioritized towers over utilities and urban form. The government targets 80,000 new homes nationwide by 2028, including over 20,000 in Ulaanbaatar within the “20-minute city” framework, but private-led infill risks turning ger areas into a “concrete jungle” without new legal safeguards.
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Ulaanbaatar Advances PPP Tram Project with Two Lines, Promising Time and Fuel Savings
Published: 2026-02-03
Ulaanbaatar is progressing a public–private partnership tram initiative aimed at easing congestion and improving public transport reliability. Environmental impact assessment work is reportedly 85% complete. Plans call for two lines: a 11 km route from Zunjin Shopping Center to Sukhbaatar Square with 16 stops, and a 15 km route from Sukhbaatar Square to the General Archive with 23 stops. Travel times are projected at 29 minutes from the suburban leisure district to Sukhbaatar Square and 37 minutes from the square to the Yarmag area. City officials estimate annual fuel savings equivalent to MNT 101 billion, alongside reduced central road load, shorter commuting times, and a more stable, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly transit network that could curb air and noise pollution.
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Society
Police Warn of Surge in Postal-Themed SMS Phishing Targeting Personal and Banking Data
Published: 2026-02-03
Mongolia’s National Police Agency reports a rise in SMS phishing that impersonates “Mongol Post” JSC, directing recipients to fraudulent links to harvest personal identifiers, passwords, and bank card details. The messages typically claim a “delayed parcel,” request “address verification,” or demand payment to release a shipment, and contain unofficial URLs. Victims risk compromise of social media accounts and bank access once credentials are entered. Authorities advise users not to click links from unknown numbers and never to submit registration IDs, card data, passwords, or verification codes via such messages. Officials emphasize that Mongol Post and other organizations do not request confidential information through SMS. The alert aligns with broader regional trends of delivery-themed scams leveraging brand impersonation and urgent language to prompt quick, risky actions.
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Residence Permits, E‑Visas Rise in January as Authorities Process Higher Volumes
Published: 2026-02-03
Mongolia’s Immigration Agency reported a sharp uptick in visa and residency processing in January, issuing 7,330 visas and approvals, including 3,972 e‑tourist visas to citizens of 20 countries. Authorities granted 1,237 new residence permits and extended 5,057 permits, with year-on-year gains of 42.4% in visa issuances, 1.6% in new residence permits, and 68.1% in extensions. In 2025 to date, 124,945 visas were granted out of 128,949 applications, with evisa.mn handling 85,690 approvals for tourists from 75 countries; 3,913 applications were declined, mainly for prior refusals still in effect or incomplete documentation. As of November 30, 2025, 37,097 foreign nationals from 138 countries were registered for official or private stays, led by China (22,868), Russia (3,020), India (2,278), South Korea (1,777), and the U.S. (1,175). Private residents account for about 1.05% of the population, within legal caps.
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Key Events Today: Tourism Week Continues, Judiciary Seminar with Japan, Environment Ministry Briefing Scheduled
Published: 2026-02-03
Ulaanbaatar hosts several sector events today that may inform policy and business planning. “Tourism Week” continues at the Center for Protecting Investors’ Rights from 10:00, signaling sustained promotion of the sector during peak Lunar New Year retail activity and ongoing meat reserve sales across nine districts. From 10:00–13:25, the National Legal Institute convenes the sixth joint seminar on specialized family and child courts with Japan, indicating continued judicial cooperation and potential best‑practice transfer. At 11:00, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change will brief media on current issues, suggesting updates on regulatory or climate commitments may be forthcoming. The day also includes cultural exhibitions at major venues in Ulaanbaatar and abroad, youth sports fixtures, and the ongoing #AminNutag video contest accepting regional heritage content until March 1, which may spur local media participation and cultural promotion.
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Ulaanbaatar Expands Lunar New Year Reserve Meat Sales to Seven Sites Through Feb. 15
Published: 2026-02-03
Ulaanbaatar authorities have expanded the Lunar New Year reserve meat program to seven outdoor locations citywide, adding two new sales points at the ASA Circus and outside the “Miny Delguur” supermarket chain in Sukhbaatar District. Existing sites include: “Ikh Nayad” Plaza (Khan-Uul), Independence Square (Chingeltei), the football field north of Zhukov Square (Bayanzurkh), Dragon Center square (Songinokhairkhan), and the Baigal Ekh Complex (Bayangol). Whole carcass mutton is priced at MNT 13,000/kg and beef at MNT 15,000/kg, with sales running through February 15. In parallel, 385 retail outlets across the capital are distributing reserve meat. The program, timed for peak holiday demand, aims to stabilize prices and ensure supply across districts, offering standardized, quality-assured stockpiled meat to consumers.
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Registered Violations Rise 8.2% in January, Concentrated in Ulaanbaatar
Published: 2026-02-03
Prosecutors reported 551,740 violations nationwide in January 2026, up 8.2% from December, with 85.4% recorded in the capital and 14.6% in the provinces. Police handled 99.5% of cases, while customs, tax, and immigration authorities processed the remainder. Despite the higher caseload, sanctions against legal entities fell 22.7% to 18,983. Men accounted for 74.7% of sanctioned individuals; people aged 26–45 comprised 59.1% of offenders. Most penalties (98.1%) were issued on the spot, 1.3% followed simplified procedures, 0.1% underwent administrative offense registration by authorized officials, and 0.4% resulted from court rulings. Estimated damages reached MNT 8.7 billion, with MNT 883.8 million recovered. The concentration in Ulaanbaatar and prevalence of immediate fines indicate continued reliance on summary enforcement mechanisms.
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Environment
Winter Grazing Outlook Flags Elevated Dzud Risk in Several Western and Central Provinces
Published: 2026-02-03
Meteorological agencies report mixed winter conditions for livestock. As of January 31, snow covers 73% of the country and body weights for sheep, goats, and cattle are at or above long-term averages, yet localized stress is emerging where autumn pasture was poor and snowfall is heavier. A February dzud risk assessment projects 5% of territory facing “very high” risk, 16% high, 50% moderate, 17% slight, and 11% minimal. Higher risk is concentrated across much of Selenge, Tuv, Bulgan, Bayan-Ulgii, Uvs, and Darkhan-Uul, with parts of Khovd, Zavkhan, Uvurkhangai, Bayankhongor, Khentii, and Dundgovi also vulnerable. Preliminary reports indicate over 13,000 livestock deaths, notably in Uvurkhangai and Uvs. Authorities advise herders to follow short-, medium-, and long-range forecasts and prepare contingency measures as conditions evolve.
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Environment Ministry Fines Firm and Revokes Land Use After Deer Death in Bogd Khan Protected Area
Published: 2026-02-03
Mongolia’s Environment and Climate Change Ministry fined a land user MNT 55.4 million and revoked part of its land-use rights after a red deer died in a non-compliant spiked fence in the Nukht Valley zone of the Bogd Khan Strictly Protected Area. Officials said the fence violated Ulaanbaatar’s new wildlife-friendly barrier standard (effective Oct 1, 2025). Authorities have removed about 11 km of non-compliant fencing and warned that land-use rights will be canceled if owners fail to dismantle illegal structures within 30 days. The ministry also flagged MNT 14 billion in unpaid land fees among protected-area users and reported 17 deer deaths recently in the capital region—an indicator of habitat stress and degraded forage. Plans include strengthening legal frameworks and ecological corridors to restore wildlife migration routes.
“Transferring the Bogd Khan Strictly Protected Area to Ulaanbaatar is not possible under international obligations, and violators will face staged enforcement up to land-rights cancellation.” - Environment and Climate Change Minister B. Batbaatar (news.mn)
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Snow Cover Shrinks 14% as 11 Provinces Report White Dzud Conditions
Published: 2026-02-03
Meteorological surveys as of January 31 show snow across 73% of Mongolia, with average snow depth thinning 14% from the prior 10-day period. Despite the reduction, conditions have deteriorated for herders: nationwide, 11 provinces (56 soums) face white dzud, and two soums in Övörkhangai (Sant, Bayangol) are experiencing “iron/ glass” dzud, the most severe form. Selenge province reports white dzud in 16 of its 17 soums, where field checks found average snow depths of 12–38 cm and drifts up to 96 cm. The deepest accumulations—31–47 cm—are concentrated in parts of Uvs, Zavkhan, Khövsgöl, and Selenge. Pasture access has been delayed by 2–11 days in several soums and up to 11 days in parts of Selenge, compounding fodder and logistics pressures for winter livestock management. Authorities continue monitoring based on snow depth, density, and temperature norms.
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Severe Cold Wave to Grip Most Regions from Feb. 4; Officials Urge Caution on Provincial Roads
Published: 2026-02-03
Mongolia’s national weather agency warns a sharp drop in temperatures will spread across much of the country starting February 4, with an intensified freeze expected in eastern regions on February 6–7. Authorities advise travelers and freight operators to exercise caution on interprovincial routes, monitor official forecasts, and prepare vehicles and supplies for extreme conditions. Such cold snaps can disrupt road traffic, strain heating demand, and complicate logistics, particularly for mining and agriculture supply chains that rely on long-haul transport. Employers with outdoor operations should reassess safety protocols and scheduling, while residents are encouraged to ensure adequate heating fuel and emergency kits. The alert indicates a broader pattern of winter volatility that can affect power and transport reliability; contingency planning and real-time updates will be essential through the cold spell.
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Six Ice Breakthrough Incidents Recorded Nationwide as Unstable Lake and River Ice Persists
Published: 2026-02-03
Emergency services report six vehicle-through-ice incidents since January, underscoring hazardous conditions on Mongolia’s lakes and rivers. Huvsgul Province saw four cases, including a fatal January accident on Upper Tsagaan Lake where a ZIL-131 truck carrying timber fell through, killing two. Additional incidents occurred in Darkhan-Uul Province and Ulaanbaatar’s Baganuur district. The Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology notes most rivers and lakes are ice-covered, with thickness increasing 5–40 cm in early February compared to the prior 10 days. However, ice remains 5–45 cm thinner than the multi-year average, and thickness varies widely across water bodies—conditions that can deceive drivers and transporters seeking shortcuts. Last week, emergency responders handled 74 incidents nationwide, rescuing two people; 69 calls involved structural fires, two were earthquakes, and five were human-caused accidents.
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National Emergency Commission Sends Feed and Fuel to Snow-Stricken Selenge Province
Published: 2026-02-03
Mongolia’s National Emergency Commission dispatched 130 tons of fortified livestock feed and 50 tons of fuel to Selenge Province as harsh winter conditions intensify. Provincial Governor N. Lkhagvadorj briefed cabinet members that the provincial emergency commission is implementing timely measures and plans to collaborate with local feed producers to reduce losses for herders. The support aims to stabilize herder livelihoods and prevent further livestock mortality during a “white dzud” pattern, when deep snow and crusted ice block grazing. Additional coordination with local feed manufacturers suggests ongoing logistical efforts to maintain supplies if conditions persist. Authorities indicated continued monitoring and interventions as needed, signaling that Selenge may receive further assistance depending on weather and impact assessments.
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Innovation
Published: 2026-02-03
M Bank has launched Google Pay, enabling its Android-using customers to make contactless and in-app payments via mobile devices. The rollout was implemented in partnership with Visa, whose network is accepted in over 200 countries. With this move, M Bank becomes the third commercial bank in Mongolia to support Google Pay. Customers can link their M Visa physical or virtual cards to Google Wallet and receive a MNT 10,000 incentive after their first transaction. The service allows faster payments domestically and abroad, reduces reliance on physical cards, and supports online purchases and travel-related spending. For international users in Mongolia, this expands acceptance options at NFC-enabled terminals and within apps tied to Visa’s global infrastructure, narrowing the gap with Apple Pay–enabled ecosystems and signaling continued digitization in local retail payments.
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AI Traffic Cameras Cut Key Violations by Half as E-Mongolia Enables Discounted Fines
Published: 2026-02-03
Ulaanbaatar’s AI-enabled traffic camera network—now covering 176 intersections with 2,600+ units—has sharply reduced risky driving behaviors and improved flow. Authorities report daily violations down by 16,300, with lane misuse falling 58.1% and stop-line breaches 50.4%. Intersection throughput is up 13%, aided by faster incident detection and clearance. Since January 1, 2026, violations detected by the automated system are reviewed by authorized officers before fines are issued, with evidence links sent to drivers. Disputed cases can be reviewed in person and appealed to district courts within five days. From January 10, fines can be paid digitally via E-Mongolia; payment within 15 days receives a 50% discount, while penalties rise 10% monthly from day 16, reaching 50% after five months. The system has also flagged 587 fake plates and 13,358 number plate infractions since August 15, 2025.
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Hungary Opens Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships for Mongolian Candidates in Agriculture
Published: 2026-02-03
Hungary’s Ministry of Agriculture and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization announced fully funded master’s scholarships for Mongolian nationals in agricultural fields for the 2026–2027 academic year, according to Mongolia’s Ministry of Education. The government of Hungary will cover registration and tuition fees, core textbooks, dormitory placement, living stipend, and health insurance; dependents are not included. English-language programs include Agricultural Biotechnology (Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Szent István Campus), Animal Nutrition and Feed Safety Engineering (Kaposvár Campus), and Plant Protection (University of Debrecen). Applicants must be Mongolian citizens/residents with strong academic records, upper-intermediate English, good health, and motivation; being under 30 is an advantage. Applications are due by February 28, 2026. FAO will pre-screen complete applications before universities conduct written and oral exams in English.
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Health
Deputy Mayor Reports Daily Carbon Monoxide Poisonings, One Death Since New Year
Published: 2026-02-03
Ulaanbaatar Deputy Mayor A. Amartuvshin said the city is recording 5–6 carbon monoxide poisoning cases daily, with one fatality since the start of 2026. He attributed incidents largely to household behavior, noting that many residents disable or remove their CO alarms despite citywide installation efforts. He stated that 172,000 households have been equipped with detectors, leaving “just over 100” homes unconnected. Authorities are urging cooperation to prevent further cases and damage to devices. The remarks highlight persistent wintertime indoor air safety risks in ger districts and older housing stock reliant on stoves or gas, where ventilation and maintenance practices remain uneven.
“We record 5–6 carbon monoxide poisoning cases every day, and one person has died since the start of the year… When alarms sound, people switch them off, take them outside, or even break them. We ask residents to work with us.” - Deputy Mayor A. Amartuvshin (isee.mn)
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Measles Cases Reach 14,052 Nationwide as 25 New Infections Reported in a Day
Published: 2026-02-03
Mongolia has confirmed a total of 14,052 measles cases, with 11,476 in Ulaanbaatar and 2,564 in the provinces. Health authorities recorded 25 new infections in the latest 24-hour period—8 in the capital and 17 in rural areas. Measles is highly contagious but preventable through vaccination. Authorities are urging residents to verify their vaccination status via local family or soum health centers, where records can be updated in the electronic registry. Those who missed scheduled immunizations are advised to get vaccinated to protect themselves and reduce transmission risks. The update signals ongoing community-level spread, particularly outside the capital, and underscores the importance of maintaining high coverage to prevent further outbreaks and disruptions to schools and workplaces.
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Child-Safety Training to Expand Nationwide as Household Injuries Affect 50,000 Children Annually
Published: 2026-02-03
Mongolia’s education authority reported plans to scale up parental training on child safety, aiming to fully enroll parents and guardians of two-year-olds in preschool from the 2025–2026 academic year. In 2025, the program will run in 150 kindergartens and reach 11,000 parents, building on 700-plus sessions delivered to about 60,000 participants over the past three years. Authorities intend to broaden the curriculum from traffic safety to comprehensive prevention of household injuries. Official data indicate roughly 50,000 children suffer household accidents each year, with 80.1% occurring while under parental or guardian supervision—underscoring gaps in risk recognition and prevention practices at home. The Education General Authority framed the initiative as early, systematic training for caregivers once children enter educational settings, with the goal of reducing preventable injuries and fatalities through standardized guidance and awareness.
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Sükhbaatar Flags Unsafe Drinking Water as Health Officials Urge Treatment Upgrades
Published: 2026-02-03
Health authorities in Sükhbaatar Province report that 75% of tested drinking water fails to meet standards, citing excessive fluorine, magnesium, and uranium. Among 26 household wells tested for uranium, 11—about 40%—exceeded limits. The province is one of three nationwide requiring urgent attention for water safety, according to health officials. Respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses are most prevalent locally, with widespread dental fluorosis particularly affecting young children. Following a public forum titled “Drinking Water and Health,” officials highlighted technical shortcomings in Baruun-Urt’s last major upgrade in 2018: the purification system runs continuously, carries high operating costs, discards 30% of treated water, and reduces elements broadly rather than targeting specific contaminants—prompting calls for improved operations or new technologies.
“If this continues, the impact on residents’ health will worsen,” - M. Delkhiitsestseg, Head of the Provincial Health Department (montsame.mn)
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Orkhon Province Opens Hemodialysis Center Through Public–Private Partnership
Published: 2026-02-03
Orkhon Province launched the “Medvik Dialysis Center,” expanding local renal care through a public–private partnership housed on the first floor of the provincial General Hospital (BOET). The province invested MNT 965 million, with operations to be managed by Ikh Shuudergene Import LLC, which has experience alongside national hospitals. The facility provides five hemodialysis rooms and one peritoneal dialysis room, equipped with 13 Europe-standard machines manufactured in 2025, and 20 beds. Running three shifts, it can treat up to 54 patients daily. The center aims to eliminate waiting lists for the province’s 32 regular dialysis patients and 35 on standby, and reduce travel for those previously treated in Bulgan and Ulaanbaatar. Patient data is created directly on the machines, streamlining care. Orkhon becomes the first province to establish a dedicated dialysis center, with plans to add more machines.
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