Politics
Parliament Advances SOE Overhaul Plan with IPOs and Full Privatizations as Unions Seek Worker Share Rights
Published: 2025-12-23
Parliament’s Economic Standing Committee discussed a government plan to restructure state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in 2026–2028 through stock exchange listings and privatizations. The draft envisions selling 10–66% stakes in 18 SOEs via IPOs—covering telecoms, aviation, banking, mining, and energy—fully divesting eight firms, and reorganizing seven entities. Officials cite concentrated performance in “Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi” and “Erdenet,” arguing wider reform is needed to raise returns and transparency. Labor unions urged safeguards, including preferential employee share allocations and social protections before any sale, particularly in power and heat supply.
“If we are to restructure and privatize, decisions must be transparent and protect jobs, wages, and social security; employees should receive preferential share allocations when companies are listed.” - E. Tamir, President of the Confederation of Mongolian Trade Unions (unuudur.mn)
“We have studied Temasek over 100 times with no tangible results; it’s time to make decisions and carry out privatization without mutual suspicion.” - MP L. Enkh-Amgalan (news.mn)
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Opposition Moves to Unseat Cabinet over 16 Deputy Ministers as Legal Risks Emerge for Partial Rollback
Published: 2025-12-23
Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar faces a renewed no-confidence push after appointing 16 deputy ministers, a move criticized amid fuel shortages, tax arrears pressure, and fiscal shortfalls. The Democratic Party (DP) says it can quickly gather the 32 signatures needed to table the motion, while ruling party fractures could decide the outcome. Government allies reportedly weigh retaining deputy ministers only in “general-purpose” ministries (Finance, Foreign Affairs, Justice, and Economic Development), but legal analysts warn selective reversals could breach the Cabinet Law, which sets fixed terms for deputy ministers once appointed. DP leaders frame the issue as broader governance failure, citing inflation, miscalculated revenues, and unpaid tax burdens.
“If the Prime Minister doesn’t rescind the deputy minister appointments, we will submit the no-confidence motion; getting 32 signatures today would be no problem.” - DP Chair O. Tsogtgerel (unuudur.mn)
“We didn’t negotiate a discount for the New Year. This is not haggling—roll back all 16 deputy ministers and fix policy failures.” - MP Ch. Lodoisambuu (isee.mn)
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Parliament Panel Backs Licensing Overhaul to Cut Red Tape and Shift Some Permits to Professional Bodies
Published: 2025-12-23
Parliament’s Economic Standing Committee voted 12–5 to advance amendments to the Licensing Law, aiming to streamline business entry and curb administrative discretion. The package would reclassify and reduce permit burdens, move about 120 simple permits and 30 notifications to professional associations, extend permit validity (special permits to 10 years; simple permits to five), and convert 32 activities from special to simple permits. If authorities fail to respond to a simple permit application, approval would be presumed after 30 days. Sectors like food services, retail, fitness, and personal care would operate by notification rather than prior approval, while multiple local service activities would become permit-free. The decision-making hub would shift to the Ministry of Economy and Development. Some lawmakers warned of conflicts of interest if associations control gatekeeping.
“We will cancel over 100 ministerial rules and pull relationships regulated by ‘instructions’ into law.” - Parliament Speaker N. Uchral (gogo.mn)
“Transferring certain permits to professional associations risks heavier bureaucracy and conflicts of interest.” - MP Ch. Anar (ikon.mn)
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Transport Ministry and Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi Face Scrutiny Over Possible Year-End Parties Despite Austerity Order
Published: 2025-12-23
Mongolia’s Government has ordered strict compliance with the Law on State Savings, instructing public bodies not to use budget funds for New Year festivities, anniversaries, or gifts. Despite the directive, the Ministry of Road and Transport Development and state-owned Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi LLC are suspected of holding year-end celebrations. Videos circulating online appear to show a “Ministry of Road and Transport Development New Year Party” banner with rock singer B. Lkhagvasuren performing, while separate footage suggests pop group Kiwi performed at an Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi event. If confirmed and publicly funded, such gatherings could raise accountability and procurement questions for state entities under austerity rules. Neither institution’s official response or details on funding sources were reported, leaving key issues—such as whether private funds or unions financed the events—unresolved.
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Opposition Threatens No‑Confidence Motion Over Deputy Minister Appointments as Ruling Party Splinters
Published: 2025-12-23
Parliament’s Democratic Party caucus has given the government one week to reverse newly appointed deputy ministers or face a no‑confidence motion against Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar. Under the constitution, at least 32 MPs must initiate the motion, which then requires 64 votes to pass in the 126‑seat State Great Khural. The Democratic Party holds 42 seats and would need 22 additional votes, but smaller parties are seen as unlikely allies. Internal rifts within the ruling party have surfaced, complicating efforts to maintain cohesion.
“Politically connected individuals are avoiding detention… If needed, suspend an MP’s immunity and investigate” - B. Enkhbayar, Minister of Justice and Home Affairs (news.mn)
“Sixteen people should be placed where they belong to improve sector performance… deputy ministers must push projects and external cooperation” - J. Batjargal, MPP caucus leader (news.mn)
“If we revisit the deputy ministers’ issue, the no‑confidence process would stop” - S. Byambatsogt, Cabinet Secretariat chief (news.mn)
The Cabinet will review the appointments in its next meeting. Reversal could avert a confidence vote; holding firm risks a high‑stakes count that could topple the cabinet if the 64‑vote threshold is met.
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Parliament’s State Structure Committee Convenes Session
Published: 2025-12-23
Mongolia’s State Structure Standing Committee of the Parliament convened a meeting on December 23. The session’s agenda and outcomes were not disclosed at the time of publication by gogo.mn, which reported the start of proceedings in real time. The committee typically reviews legislation on public administration, governance reforms, and electoral and constitutional matters, and its meetings often set the pace for plenary debates. For investors and organizations tracking regulatory developments, the committee’s agenda can signal upcoming shifts in administrative or institutional frameworks. Further updates are expected as the session progresses and any resolutions or draft laws are made public. No official statements or decisions were reported at the time of the initial notice.
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Published: 2025-12-23
Former Prime Minister S. Bayar called for Mongolia to stop importing Russia’s A-92 gasoline, arguing it is an inferior product that imposes hidden costs on health and vehicles. > “Let’s abandon Russian A-92. It’s a toxin made from refining oil residue. Except for us, others have banned it. Yes, it’s cheaper, but we’ve been paying the difference with our health and car parts” - S. Bayar (news.mn)
Industry and Mineral Resources Minister G. Damdinnyam said the A-92 standard is outdated and primarily supplied from Angarsk, which is facing production constraints, making a transition to A-95 unavoidable. > “Our A-92 standard is obsolete… There’s no alternative but to move to A-95. Ulaanbaatar city has already decided” - Minister G. Damdinnyam (news.mn)
He noted Kyrgyzstan’s limited capacity and current supply shortfalls. Mongolia consumes roughly 84,000–90,000 tons of A-92 and 140,000 tons of diesel monthly, highlighting the scale and urgency of supply diversification.
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Economy
Euro-5 Gasoline Prices Rise as Imports Increase; Supply Backfills Queues After Russia Boosts Deliveries
Published: 2025-12-23
Mongolia is easing a week-long fuel squeeze by ramping up Euro‑5 A92 imports and receiving increased volumes from Russia, while clarifying that only Euro‑5 A92 prices have risen and regular Euro‑2 A92 remains at prior levels. Officials said December gasoline demand rose to 85,000 tons from 75,000 tons in November, with 25,000 tons of Euro‑5 A92 sourced at US$800–1,005/ton versus US$705/ton for Euro‑2, driving pump-price differences (reported retail examples: MNT 2,930–3,080 per liter). Russia’s Angarsk refinery delivered 300+ wagons over five days, exceeding daily consumption of 40 wagons, and 2,500 tons were being unloaded in Ulaanbaatar on Dec 23. Diesel orders total 135,000 tons for December, about 90% delivered. Authorities framed a gradual shift to cleaner fuels, noting Euro‑5 adoption is standard regionally.
“Regular A92 will not increase in price; Euro‑5 gasoline will adjust according to market conditions.” - Ch. Khishigdalai, Deputy Minister for Industry and Mineral Resources (gogo.mn)
“Euro‑5 and Euro‑2 fuels differ in both price and quality, with Euro‑5 significantly reducing emissions and engine deposits.” - P. Bayanbaatar, Head of the Mineral Resources and Petroleum Authority (ikon.mn)
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Published: 2025-12-23
Parliament’s Economic Standing Committee reviewed the 2025 execution and 2026 budget plan for the State Treasury Fund administered by the Bank of Mongolia, with no debate requested by MPs before forwarding conclusions to the plenary. The central bank reported allocating MNT 2 billion in 2025 to expand the collection through purchases of movable historical-cultural artifacts, native gold, commissioned artworks, and research collaborations. Items recorded this year include a “Janraisig” deity statue acquired from citizens, 162 sample commemorative coins, 2,000 pieces of 1945 coinage, and “Honorary Banker” badges, with sales proceeds from commemorative coins, bullion, and granulated silver booked to the Transaction Fund. For 2026, the bank proposes another MNT 2 billion for acquisitions and restoration, and plans to sell 24,300 commemorative coins while recording franchise and sample issues as income.
“We plan to allocate MNT 2 billion for acquisitions and restoration and to sell 24,300 commemorative coins next year.” - S. Narantsogt, Governor of the Bank of Mongolia (montsame.mn)
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Published: 2025-12-23
The Bank of Mongolia’s quarterly review reports household loan balances reached MNT 36.9 trillion at the start of Q4, with 68.8% issued by banks, 16.9% by non-bank financial institutions, and 13.5% in mortgages. Consumer lending now accounts for about half of bank credit and grew 23% year-on-year. Non-performing loans (NPLs) among bank customers rose to 3.5% of total loans in January–September, up 0.9 percentage points from a year earlier, driven primarily by weakening repayment capacity on salary-backed consumer loans. NPLs at non-bank financial institutions increased by 2.6 percentage points versus the same period of 2024. Authorities altered the debt-to-income parameters for consumer credit, slowing its annual growth to 25.4%, with outstanding consumer loans at MNT 16.9 trillion. The trend signals rising household credit stress despite macroprudential tightening.
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Inflation Pressures Intensify as Energy Tariffs, Wage Hikes and Import Costs Push Prices Higher
Published: 2025-12-23
Mongolia’s annual inflation has risen to 9.2% from 6.6% a year earlier, driven by domestic price increases for food and beverages (+11.9%), housing and utilities including electricity and fuels (+19.3%), education (+12.8%), and hospitality (+11.3%), according to the National Statistics Office. Retail data show notable recent increases in staple goods such as milk, while five-year comparisons indicate average food prices have more than doubled, signaling significant erosion of the tugrik’s purchasing power. The central bank projects a gradual easing toward 6–7% in 2026, but planned pay rises for teachers, medical staff, and higher heating tariffs could sustain price pressures. Policymakers also flag risks from external debt service potentially weakening the currency and lifting import prices. A senior government official warned that recent wage decisions lacked thorough impact analysis on inflation and the private sector.
“Some members pushed to raise salaries to MNT 3.5 million without calculating the impact. The effects on inflation and the private sector will surface next year.” - S. Byambatsogt, Chief Cabinet Secretary (eagle.mn)
Economists urge a mix of tighter monetary policy with fiscal discipline, stronger competition, and support for domestic production to curb inflation without stifling growth.
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Courts Void Licensing Order as Receiver Moves to Recover MNT 140 Billion from Olon Ovoot Gold
Published: 2025-12-23
Mongolia’s bank receivers say they have resumed recovery of long-overdue loans from Olon Ovoot Gold LLC (OOG) after courts nullified a mining-license transfer that had halted collections. OOG owes about MNT 140 billion to three failed banks, of which MNT 123 billion is tied to state entities—the Bank of Mongolia, Ministry of Finance, and the Deposit Insurance Corporation. Following years of stalled enforcement and degraded collateral, the receivers shifted strategy under Minerals Law Article 52, transferring eight remaining valid licenses in Aug–Sep 2024 to Mineral Exploration Funding LLC (MEF), a vehicle under MAMCO. In early 2025, MNT 5.3 billion was recovered, with MNT 4 billion remitted to the state budget. A May 2025 order by the Mineral Resources and Petroleum Authority that re-transferred licenses back to OOG and affiliate Zuv Zug LLC was later ruled illegal, and the licenses were re-registered to MEF on Dec 11, 2025.
“We thank the Independent Authority Against Corruption for swiftly exposing and stopping the unlawful actions that risked MNT 140 billion in public losses.” - M. Enkhtur, Bank Receiver for Savings Bank and Zoos Bank (gogo.mn)
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Tax Collections Tighten as Businesses Report Heavy Inspections and Rising Compliance Costs
Published: 2025-12-23
Mongolia’s tax authority is accelerating collections to meet a 2025 target of MNT 17.9 trillion, with companies reporting frozen accounts and withheld funds that have impeded payroll. Finance Minister B. Javkhlan said authorities will intensify assistance to help settle arrears and, if necessary, apply legal enforcement measures in stages. Survey data from the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry highlights frictions: 33% of firms fined after inspections, half deeming fines unjustified; 18% incurred informal costs averaging MNT 6.04 million. Half of respondents believe laws were violated during inspections, yet only half of those lodged complaints, most unresolved. Businesses cite opaque rule changes and overregulation; 36.5% say their sector faces excessive rules. Compliance burdens are significant: about half spend roughly one month per year on compliance, and one-third incur over MNT 10 million annually, often passing costs to prices, which may dampen competitiveness and expand informality.
“We will step up support to help citizens and enterprises settle arrears without a tax shock; if needed, we will take compulsory measures within the law in stages.” - Finance Minister B. Javkhlan (eagle.mn)
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Average Monthly Wage Reaches MNT 2.7 Million; Mining Leads, Hospitality Lags as Real Pay Slips
Published: 2025-12-23
Mongolia’s average monthly nominal wage stood at MNT 2.7 million in Q3 2025, with a median of MNT 2.3 million and average base pay at MNT 2.4 million, according to the National Statistics Office. Nominal wages fell by MNT 26,000 from the previous quarter, while the real wage index declined 2.3%, signaling purchasing power erosion. Mining posted the highest pay at MNT 4.9 million—79.5% above the national average—while hotels, accommodation and food services remained lowest at MNT 1.8 million, 32.6% below average. Real wages rose most in manufacturing (+13.6% q/q) but dropped 8.7–12.4% in mining and education. Regionally, Ulaanbaatar and the Central region exceed the national average by 1.7–5.1%, with Western, Eastern and Khangai trailing by 3.0–18.3%. The gender pay gap persists: men average MNT 3.0 million versus women at MNT 2.5 million, a MNT 521,000 gap.
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Industry Expert Says Oyu Tolgoi Structure Leaves Mongolia Without Dividends as Debt Burden Grows
Published: 2025-12-23
Mining consultant and academician D. Galsandorj criticized the Oyu Tolgoi investment framework, arguing Mongolia will not receive dividends under current terms and rising shareholder and project debt. He contends the 2009 investment agreement and subsequent “Dubai” underground development deal favored investors through long tax stabilization, permissive loss carry-forwards, offshore revenue handling, and limited state oversight of costs, resulting in accumulated liabilities he estimates near USD 20 billion. He urges independent technical and financial audits, renegotiation to curb cost inflation and management fees, and reorientation of financing away from high-interest shareholder loans. He also alleges the Dubai agreement deferred Mongolia’s dividend timeline into the 2030s by voiding disputes over cost overruns.
“Mongolia will not receive dividends from the Oyu Tolgoi project under the current arrangements.” - D. Galsandorj, mining consultant and academician (news.mn)
“The project has operated at a loss for 16 years, paying no corporate income tax or dividends to the state, while debts now approach USD 20 billion.” - D. Galsandorj, mining consultant and academician (news.mn)
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TTT Fuel Executive Says Supply Intact as 425 Sales Points Operate Citywide
Published: 2025-12-23
Ulaanbaatar’s semi-coke briquette supply remains stable, according to Tavan Tolgoi Fuel LLC, which is operating 425 retail points across all seven districts. The company reports a stock of 28,569 tons and daily replenishment, including imports from China. Delivery backlogs can occur, with some outlets selling out during the day before restocking later. Orders totaling 2,400 tons from sales points are currently being fulfilled, the official said.
“There is no such thing as a fuel shortage. Some sales points may run out that day, and delivery can be 1–2 hours late, but we have supply and are delivering daily,” - G. Davaabaatar, department head, Tavan Tolgoi Fuel LLC (eagle.mn)
The statement aims to reassure households that reported gaps reflect retail timing rather than system-wide shortage, as winter heating demand peaks and logistics timing becomes critical.
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Fuel Shortages Linked to Summer Demand Spike and Supply Disruptions, Officials Say
Published: 2025-12-23
Mongolia’s fuel shortages are being attributed to unusually high consumption during July–August and subsequent supply disruptions in October–December, according to the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources. Authorities say nationwide travel for provincial centennial celebrations and regional festivals significantly drew down inventories that typically cover about 30 days, leaving storage thin when import flows weakened in October. The situation eased somewhat in November but tightened again in early December, with officials estimating roughly 10 days of fuel remain distributed across the country rather than concentrated in Ulaanbaatar depots—driving urban queues. The ministry also pointed to heightened consumer demand and misinformation as exacerbating factors. Businesses reliant on road transport should anticipate intermittent constraints until import scheduling stabilizes and inventories are rebuilt, particularly in the capital’s storage hubs.
“In July–August we used an unprecedented amount of product… Consumption increased and stocks fell, then supply disruptions began in October. We have only about 10 days of inventory, spread nationwide, which is why queues are forming in Ulaanbaatar.” - Ch. Khishigdalai, Director, Petroleum Policy Department, Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources (ikon.mn)
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Pension Reserve Deposit Rate Lifted to 15.11% as Social Insurance Council Approves New Bank Agreement
Published: 2025-12-23
Mongolia’s National Social Insurance Council approved a standard agreement to place the Pension Reserve Fund’s assets in commercial bank deposits, increasing the annual return on 215.3 billion tugriks accumulated in 2024 from 3% to 15.11%. The decision substantially boosts near‑term yield on the fund’s idle cash and signals a shift toward more active treasury management within the social insurance system. The Council also endorsed receiving real estate valued at 5.3 billion tugriks from the Capital Bank LLC receiver to offset part of the bank’s outstanding liabilities to the Social Insurance Fund, reducing the balance owed to 57.6 billion tugriks. In addition, it approved a revised regulation governing how the fund accepts, safeguards, utilizes, leases, and sells real estate acquired from receivables, aiming to streamline and add flexibility to asset recovery and monetization processes.
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Over 80,000 taxpayers remit ₮1.3 trillion in December; corporations dominate collections
Published: 2025-12-23
The General Taxation Authority reported that 80,333 taxpayers met their December obligations, channeling ₮1,298.6 billion into the state budget. Corporate payers accounted for the vast majority: 19,451 entities contributed ₮1,275.6 billion. In contrast, 60,882 individual taxpayers paid ₮23.0 billion. Authorities also disclosed figures for advance payments toward 2025 year-end settlements, with 559 taxpayers prepaying ₮404.0 billion. The agency emphasized that on-time and advance payments support fiscal stability and budget execution. The data underscores the heavy concentration of revenue from corporate taxpayers, a pattern relevant for budgeting and cash-flow planning as the government closes the fiscal year and prepares for 2026 projections. No policy changes were announced alongside the report, which primarily highlights compliance levels and the role of tax discipline in revenue consolidation.
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Government Secures Agreement in Principle for 34% Free Stake in Achit Ikht, Talks Continue on Strategic Deposits
Published: 2025-12-23
A government task force led by Cabinet Secretariat Chief S. Byambatsogt says Achit Ikht LLC has agreed in principle to transfer a 34% stake to the state at no cost as part of implementing the forthcoming Sovereign Wealth Fund framework and state participation in strategic secondary deposits around Erdenet. Negotiations with three operators—Achit Ikht, Erdmin, and Zes Erdeniin Khuv—began in August and are ongoing. Byambatsogt emphasized an investor-friendly approach and denied coercion.
“The state and the Mongolian people will own 34% of Achit Ikht’s strategic secondary deposit free of charge. We will not seize or pressure the private sector; talks are progressing through mutual understanding.” - S. Byambatsogt, Head of the Cabinet Secretariat (isee.mn)
Achit Ikht’s working group head D. Tsogtbaatar said the offer aligns with the Minerals Law Article 5.5 given the company funded exploration and had reserves approved. A government representative, J. Batzandan, noted options under discussion include state equity or replacing it with a royalty mechanism, with outcomes expected next week.
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Fuel Queue in Tsogttsetsii Blocks Lane as AI-92 Shortage Deepens Nationwide
Published: 2025-12-23
Fuel shortages that began last autumn have intensified, with AI-92 gasoline again scarce in Ulaanbaatar and the provinces since the weekend. Long queues formed at filling stations, and in Tsogttsetsii, Ömnögovi province, lines of vehicles waiting for fuel reportedly blocked one lane of the roadway, according to citizen-shot video. Earlier, senior officials had characterized prior disruptions as “artificial shortages,” but the article notes the sector minister has now apologized to the public for the latest supply crunch. The situation underscores persistent vulnerability in Mongolia’s fuel supply chain, particularly in mining-adjacent localities like Tsogttsetsii, where traffic and logistics are sensitive to disruptions. Businesses reliant on road transport should anticipate delays and potential rationing until replenishment stabilizes and authorities clarify supply timelines.
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State-Owned Miners Ordered to Tighten Governance, Accelerate Key Projects and AI-Based Procurement Controls
Published: 2025-12-23
Erdenes Mongol’s acting CEO B. Davaadalai instructed subsidiary leaders to deliver measurable improvements in governance, transparency, and cost control, aligning with the government’s state-owned enterprise reform agenda. Priorities include boosting foreign currency earnings, rationalizing structures and staffing, and fast-tracking investment projects such as steel and copper concentrate processing plants. The company will also push to enhance Mongolia’s share from the Oyu Tolgoi negotiations, expedite preparations to list Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi as a public company, and swiftly bring the Bor-Teeg deposit into economic use per a parliamentary resolution. Procurement across state-owned miners will migrate to an AI-driven e-system to automate price comparisons, supplier scoring, and flag inefficiencies, aimed at curbing corruption and waste. Davaadalai emphasized 2026 as the deadline for plans with clear, time-bound metrics and accountability.
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Diplomacy
UN Adopts Resolution to Boost Transparency in Political Financing, Backed by Mongolia
Published: 2025-12-23
The UN has approved a resolution to enhance transparency in funding for political parties, candidates, and election campaigns, co-initiated by Mongolia with Albania, Ghana, and Norway, and supported by 192 member states. Adopted during the 11th Conference of States Parties to the UN Convention against Corruption in Doha (Dec 15–19), the measure reinforces the principle that citizens have the right to know who finances political processes. Over 60 countries joined as co-sponsors. For Mongolia, the resolution is expected to strengthen disclosure rules and reduce corruption risks, while opening access to UN and international technical assistance. The General Election Commission has joined an Open Government Partnership challenge on party finance transparency and is preparing a UN-funded electronic disclosure system. The Commission also engaged Transparency International to consider integrating party finance openness into the Corruption Perceptions Index methodology.
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Infrastructure
Oil Refinery Construction Reaches 50%, Startup Brought Forward to Late 2027
Published: 2025-12-23
Mongolia’s state-backed oil refinery in Altanshiree, Dornogovi has reached 50% completion, with the crude oil pipeline 90% finished, according to project officials. Financed by roughly USD 1.7 billion in credit from India’s EXIM Bank, the refinery had been slated for 2028 under a bilateral agreement, but the government now targets commissioning in late 2027 after accelerating works. Authorities say domestic output could cover about half of national fuel demand once operational, reducing near-total import dependence—currently 95% from Russia and 5% from China. Key processing units’ foundations are in place, and auxiliary systems, substations, and control facilities are under assembly, with most equipment manufactured by some 20 Indian suppliers. Securing feedstock remains the critical path item, with negotiations planned with PetroChina on crude supply.
“Our sector is 100% dependent on imports. The way out is a domestic refinery… Our main task now is crude supply, and we expect to reach a solution soon through talks with PetroChina.” - Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources G. Damdinyam (gogo.mn, montsame.mn)
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Ulaanbaatar to Start Waste-to-Energy Plant Construction in 2026 Under PPP Deal
Published: 2025-12-23
Ulaanbaatar signed a public–private partnership on October 24 with Renshou Sichuan Energy Investment & Environmental Protection Co., Ltd. to build a waste-to-energy facility at Morin Davaa, targeting construction from 2025–2028 and a ground-breaking in 2026. The plant is designed to incinerate 1,500 tons of municipal waste daily and generate 35 MW, feeding into the central grid. City authorities report 64% completion of land acquisition, with 101 of 158 plots cleared. Once operational, the facility would process 31.8% of the capital’s solid waste, easing landfill pressure and improving waste management reliability. The project is expected to create over 300 temporary jobs during construction and 86 permanent positions. Successful delivery would diversify the city’s power mix and support environmental goals, though permitting, financing, and community relocation timelines remain critical execution risks.
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Online Land Applications to Be Processed and Allocated Starting December 31 Under New Rules
Published: 2025-12-23
Mongolia has updated its land administration procedures under Government Resolution No. 121 (2025), approving a revised “Procedure for Issuing Certificates for Land Possession and Use Rights.” Authorities will now accept and process 27 categories of requests related to land—covering new possession and use rights, transfers, extensions, purpose changes, boundary and location changes, parcel mergers and splits, rights-type changes, and servitude registrations. Applications must be filed through the national e-land platform (www.egazar.gov.mn) or the “egazar” mobile app. Depending on the request type, cases will be resolved within 1–5 days under relevant laws. Beginning December 31, authorities will start adjudicating and allocating land requests in queue order in areas designated by land-use plans, signaling a streamlined, digital-first approach intended to accelerate service delivery and improve transparency.
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Public–Private Partnership to Build Fifth Thermal Power Plant from 2026, Commissioning Slated for 2028
Published: 2025-12-23
Ulaanbaatar authorities have prepared the Fifth Thermal Power Plant as a flagship urban development project and signed a construction contract with “Mitaim International” in late October. Site clearance is under way for the facility, designed to generate 300 MW of electricity and 340 Gcal of heat. Construction is planned to start in 2026 under a public–private partnership, the first such major plant in 42 years, with commissioning targeted for 2028. Located on the ash disposal area of Thermal Power Plant No. 2 in Bayangol District’s 20th khoroo, the plant is expected to supply electricity to 52,800 households and heat to 40,800 households in western Ulaanbaatar, including areas such as Tavan Shar, the 21st microdistrict, “Khiltchin” complex, Bayankhoshuu, and the 1st–4th microdistricts. The project will create over 1,600 jobs during construction and 369 permanent positions. The government has established “Ulaanbaatar Partnership Center” LLC to co-implement PPP projects.
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Parliament Speaker Unveils ‘3x100’ Plan to Cut Energy and Fuel Dependence, Boost Distributed Renewables and EV Charging
Published: 2025-12-23
Parliament Speaker N. Uchral presented a “3x100” initiative to reduce dependence on electricity and petroleum products, proposing a resolution that directs the government to launch three programs: 100,000 rooftop solar kits for households, 100 MW of distributed renewable capacity in provinces, and 100 full-service EV charging sites nationwide. The plan prioritizes green projects in the 2026–2030 national development agenda and seeks to ease grid-connection rules for up to 10 kW home solar systems. Mongolia’s grid losses are 14% versus a global average of 6%, and renewables comprise only 7% of supply. Lawmakers and sector experts called for clearer regulation, results-based monitoring, and financing structures.
“We must shift our economic structure toward green infrastructure and support renewable energy through policy.” - Parliament Speaker N. Uchral (eagle.mn)
“International result-measurement and reporting systems should be embedded in the resolution.” - MP G. Luvsanjamts (eagle.mn)
“Oversight of green financing and training sector professionals are essential.” - D. Gankhuyag, Chair, Energy Council at MNCCI (eagle.mn)
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Society
Police Warn of Phishing Scam Mimicking Khan Bank’s Branding, Two Victims Lose ₮6.9 Million
Published: 2025-12-23
Mongolia’s General Police Department issued an urgent alert about a phishing campaign using Khan Bank’s logo and design to promote a fake New Year lottery via shared links. After clicking the link, users are shown a prize wheel and prompted to submit personal data, which scammers then use to access banking apps and withdraw funds. Authorities said two individuals collectively lost ₮6.9 million on December 22 after entering their account details. Khan Bank reminds customers that it never asks for login credentials or one-time passwords and conducts promotions only through its official app and channels. The incident highlights rising end-of-year fraud risks in Mongolia’s digital ecosystem and the need for stricter platform monitoring and user vigilance, especially around branded giveaways and links outside official domains.
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Chinese Contractor Expelled Over Labor Violations at ‘Nogoon Nuur-1008’ Housing Project
Published: 2025-12-23
Mongolia’s Immigration Agency revoked the residency of Yan Yao, the Chinese director of the general contractor “China Second Metallurgical Group Corporation” LLC, and forcibly removed him for repeated labor and compliance violations tied to the “Nogoon Nuur-1008 households” redevelopment project. Authorities said the contractor unlawfully employed foreign workers without proper authorization, hid and relocated undocumented staff, and ignored multiple compliance notices. The government had approved exemptions from job-position fees for 372 foreign workers under 2025 Cabinet resolutions to support priority projects, but inspectors found persistent breaches. After Yan allegedly attempted to influence lawful decisions and reentered Mongolia using an official-purpose passport to conduct unrelated activities, officials imposed a three-year reentry ban. The case underscores tighter enforcement of immigration and labor rules on foreign-led urban redevelopment projects in Ulaanbaatar.
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Ulaanbaatar to Link Private CCTV Feeds to New Police Command Center to Curb Crime
Published: 2025-12-23
Ulaanbaatar is integrating business-owned exterior CCTV cameras into a new Rapid Command Center run by the city’s police, starting with feeds from Kharkhorin Market. During a briefing to the city council chair A. Bayar, police leaders said crime patterns are evolving and require technology-driven responses, including consolidated monitoring and data-led decision-making. The city supports unifying state and private cameras into one system and plans to embed tech-enabled prevention and targeted public awareness in next year’s plans. Police officials emphasized capacity building and analytics to improve response times and resource deployment. The initiative signals a shift toward centralized surveillance infrastructure that could expand coverage in high-incident areas and standardize real-time statistics for policy planning.
“Crime characteristics are changing year by year. We need to introduce new technologies and strengthen officers’ capacities.” - G. Arslanguyag, Head of the Capital City Police Department (isee.mn)
“Beyond state-installed cameras, connecting businesses’ exterior cameras into a unified system is fully supported.” - A. Bayar, Chair of the Citizens’ Representative Khural and head of the city’s crime prevention council (isee.mn)
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How to Verify Fuel Pump Accuracy at Mongolian Stations
Published: 2025-12-23
Mongolia’s fuel retailers are periodically certified for pump accuracy by the Agency for Standardization and Metrology, and consumers can independently verify dispensing volumes on-site. Stations are required to keep sealed, certified 5- and 10‑liter measuring cans (“mernik”) at each pump. If drivers suspect short dispensing, they can request a test by drawing 5 or 10 liters into the certified container to compare the actual volume with the pump reading. Should a discrepancy appear, customers may file a formal complaint with the relevant authorities for enforcement action. The clarification follows social media claims that some vehicles appear to take more fuel than their stated tank capacity—an issue often influenced by reserve capacity and tank design but now addressed with a clear verification process.
“If a citizen believes under-dispensing is occurring, they can use the certified 5- or 10-liter measure at the pump to check. If it’s short, there is every opportunity to lodge a complaint with the competent authority.” - Ch. Khishigdalai, Director for Oil Policy Implementation Regulation, Ministry of Mining and Heavy Industry (gogo.mn)
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Environment
Semi-coke Switch Credited with 40–50% Drop in Winter Air Pollution; Local Production Planned Next Year
Published: 2025-12-23
Mongolia’s National Council on Air Pollution’s scientific panel says the shift to semi-coke briquettes has delivered measurable gains, estimating a 40–50% reduction in air pollution versus last winter, with sulfur down threefold and particulate matter notably lower. The Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring Agency reports sulfur dioxide averaged 49 μg/m3 in December 2025, from 108 μg/m3 a year earlier, while PM2.5 and PM10 fell 22–25% and NO2 by 2%. “Based on our analysis comparing December 2024 and December 2025, air pollution has decreased by 40–50%,” - Academician H. Enkhjargal (news.mn). Tavan Tolgoi Fuel CEO Ts. Erdenebayar said semi-coke is meeting projections for roughly halving toxic emissions and improving Ulaanbaatar’s air quality by 23–24% so far this heating season. “From next year, semi-coke will be supplied entirely from domestic production,” - CEO Ts. Erdenebayar (itoim.mn). Researchers caution weather effects warrant continued, finer PM1 monitoring.
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Ulaanbaatar Moves to Bar Euro-2 Fuel Vehicles from City Center
Published: 2025-12-23
Ulaanbaatar authorities announced a decision to prohibit vehicles using Euro-2 standard fuel from operating in the city center, signaling a tougher stance on urban air pollution and fuel quality. The update came during a briefing by Ch. Khishigdalai, head of the Petroleum Policy Implementation Regulation Department at the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, and P. Bayanbaatar, head of the Mineral Resources and Petroleum Authority, who addressed current fuel-related issues. While implementation details, timelines, and enforcement mechanisms were not disclosed in the initial briefing, the move suggests impending compliance requirements for fuel distributors and motorists, with potential implications for importers and service stations that still supply lower-standard fuels. Businesses operating fleets in central districts should monitor forthcoming regulations, as the measure could accelerate a shift to higher-standard fuels and possibly incentivize fleet upgrades to meet urban access rules.
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Ulaanbaatar’s Air Quality Ranking Improves Sharply as Pollution Levels Fall
Published: 2025-12-23
Ulaanbaatar has dropped to 41st in global city pollution rankings after years in the top five, according to Swiss monitoring platform IQAir. The city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) this year stands at 115, a 2–5x improvement from last winter’s peak levels. In December 2023–2024, several western districts—Bayankhoshuu, Khailaast, “5 Buudal,” the 1st Microdistrict, and Zuraagch—reached AQI 426–500 (hazardous) while other areas averaged around 200 (very unhealthy). The current average falls in the “unhealthy for sensitive groups” band, indicating risk primarily for children, the elderly, and people with cardiovascular or respiratory conditions. The improvement suggests reduced emissions from coal burning and possible impacts from ongoing mitigation measures, though winter readings will be critical to confirm a sustained trend. Authorities classify AQI bands from 0–50 (good) to 301–500 (hazardous), guiding outdoor activity and exposure limits.
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Innovation
Published: 2025-12-23
The Ministry of Justice and Home Affairs introduced “Voyager Transparency,” an AI-driven platform consolidating Mongolia’s budget and public procurement open data to improve oversight and usability. Developers Ts. Chandmani-Erdene and O. Munkhbat briefed ministry leadership on features intended to simplify how the public tracks government spending in near real time, addressing fragmentation and usability issues in existing systems. The initiative aligns with the government’s anti-corruption agenda and seeks to bolster citizen participation by turning open data into a practical monitoring tool.
“This project fully aligns with the government’s anti-corruption policy and goal of increasing transparency, and we are ready to support such youth-led initiatives that deliver tangible results.” - Deputy Minister D. Munkh-Erdene (montsame.mn)
The platform recently won the UNDP “Civic Tech Innovation Challenge on Governance 2025” Rising Civic Innovation Award, selected from 251 projects across 30 Asia-Pacific countries, signaling international recognition and potential scalability.
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Health
Severe Respiratory Infections Drive Hospitalizations as Flu Season Intensifies
Published: 2025-12-23
Mongolia’s Health Ministry reports a sharp rise in influenza and influenza-like illnesses, with 2,666 children hospitalized nationwide as of December 21. Of these, 64.7% (1,725) are due to severe acute respiratory infections (SARI), an increase of 138 cases from the previous day. Intensive care units are treating 103 children, nearly half (49.5%, or 51) for SARI—up by two cases day-on-day. Emergency departments saw 1,464 pediatric visits, with 65.3% (956) linked to flu-like symptoms, an increase of 386 cases. Authorities urge continued preventive measures during the ongoing flu season, including mask use in public spaces, hand hygiene, and gargling upon returning home—especially for households with young children. The data signal heightened pressure on pediatric and intensive care capacity, warranting vigilance from families and healthcare providers.
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Surge in Child Hand Injuries Linked to Household Clothes Dryers Prompts Hospital Warning
Published: 2025-12-23
Mongolia’s National Trauma and Orthopedics Research Center reports a sharp rise in injuries among young children caused by household clothes dryers. In the first 11 months of 2025, 35 children suffered finger and tendon injuries from getting caught in dryer hinges and supports, up from 25 cases in 2024. Overall, 3,507 people sought care for crush-type injuries during the period, including 1,502 children. Doctors say injuries typically involve severed tendons and first finger joints and often require surgery, with lasting impairment likely. The most recent case involved a four-month-old whose fingertip joint was amputated. Pediatric cases are increasing as school holidays leave children at home, raising household accident risks.
“We’re seeing more children’s fingers crushed in dryer hinges, with injuries ranging from tendon damage to amputations; parents must be extra vigilant.” - T. Bayan-Ölzii, Hand and Upper Limb Surgeon at the National Trauma Center (isee.mn)
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