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Mongolia Daily: FM defends reserves, ADB cuts outlook, govt secures fuel plan, and ETT opens China route

MongoliaDaily

Politics

Finance Minister Defends Reserves and Fiscal Operations, Invites MP to IMF Meetings as Budget Debate Lags

Published: 2025-10-06

Finance Minister B. Javkhlan countered claims that Mongolia faces a reserve shortfall or default risk, stating foreign exchange reserves stand at USD 5.874 billion—covering four to five months of imports—and that all Treasury disbursements are proceeding normally. He underscored that an IMF mission recently found no payment or sovereign risk and noted Fitch has maintained the country’s B+ stable rating even as several peers and China saw downgrades. Javkhlan urged Parliament to resume deliberations on the 2025 budget, warning delay heightens execution risk and investor uncertainty. He also called for MP P. Sainzorig—who alleged deficits and default risk—to attend the IMF Annual Meetings to hear external assessments firsthand.

“The Treasury’s operations are normal… The IMF team saw no risks, and reserves cover 4–5 months of imports.” - Finance Minister B. Javkhlan (news.mn)

“I want MP P. Sainzorig to come with me to the IMF meetings to see how Mongolia is viewed internationally.” - Finance Minister B. Javkhlan (eagle.mn)

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Opposition Push to Oust Prime Minister Intensifies Over Mining Royalty Rule and Economic Claims

Published: 2025-10-06

A faction of MPs led by P. Sainzorig is gathering signatures to remove Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar, citing an August Cabinet resolution (No. 55) that temporarily changes how the mineral royalty (AMNAT) is calculated when exporters sell at least a quarter of output through the commodity exchange. Sainzorig alleges the change benefits large miners and cuts budget revenue by MNT 200 billion, and says he has over 40 signatures, including from HUN and Democratic Party members. The government argues the rule aligns with prior practice, boosts transparency, and will add MNT 100–130 billion in revenue by tying AMNAT to exchange prices. Industry Minister G. Damdinnyam says Sainzorig previously took part in similar decisions and is politicizing the issue. The motion also folds in criticism of macroeconomic messaging and rumored new offtake borrowing via Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi, which officials have not detailed publicly. If at least 32 MPs formally submit, parliament must debate within three days; removal requires 64 votes.

“I am raising the question of dismissing Mr. Zandanshatar for violating the Constitution, undermining parliamentary rule, and misleading the public.” - MP P. Sainzorig (gogo.mn)

“This resolution did not violate the law; it mirrors earlier decisions, and revenues have already increased by MNT 80.1 billion.” - Industry and Minerals Minister G. Damdinnyam (itoim.mn)

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Power Struggle Freezes Parliament as PM Faces Ouster Push and Moves to Replace Justice Minister

Published: 2025-10-06

Mongolia’s ruling party infighting has spilled into state institutions, stalling parliamentary work and threatening the three‑month‑old cabinet. Speaker D. Amarbaysgalan said standing committees have been paralyzed by attendance boycotts, while opposition MPs argue he should recuse himself over ongoing investigations. Lawmaker P. Sainzorig is reportedly gathering signatures to table a motion to dismiss Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar; over 40 MPs are said to have signed, surpassing the constitutional threshold. Concurrently, Zandanshatar has exercised his authority to replace Justice Minister L. Munkhbaatar with MP B. Enkhbayar, a move already presented to the President and slated for oath-taking in parliament. The appointment may be overtaken if a no-confidence bid is formally lodged and scheduled before the vote. Analysts portray broader factional maneuvering, including speculation over future party leadership contests, as the crisis deepens and institutional legitimacy erodes.

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Parliament to Review Justice Minister Appointment as Budget Debates Continue This Week

Published: 2025-10-06

Parliament has scheduled a Friday session to present motions to dismiss and appoint cabinet members, including the nomination of MP B. Enkhbayar as Minister of Justice and Home Affairs. Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar proposed Enkhbayar last week, linking the move to anti-corruption priorities in the coal sector. The review was deferred to align with the preset weekly agenda, with the Speaker’s council setting plenary schedules. Concurrently, the second reading of the 2026 state budget and associated funds continues across standing committees and plenary sessions, alongside deliberations on amendments to the Food Law and multiple sectoral oversight hearings, from cybersecurity to ADB financing.

“I appointed MP B. Enkhbayar as Justice Minister to fight coal theft.” - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (ikon.mn)

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Published: 2025-10-06

A government task force led by Justice and Home Affairs Minister L. Munkhbaatar convened to review whether strategic mineral licenses were issued and managed in accordance with law. The group is auditing 83 licenses held by 41 entities, scrutinizing ownership changes, export volumes, tax payments, litigation, environmental assessments, rehabilitation funds, and boundary delineation. Authorities reported 198 changes in ultimate beneficial ownership—flagged as a potential tax avoidance pattern—alongside common violations such as lapsed license renewals, missing five-year environmental assessments, unbanked rehabilitation funds, and unapproved annual environmental plans. The task force ordered cross-verification of extracted, exported, and taxed volumes using customs, tax, and police data, and a review of unpaid license fees and delays for subsequent action.

“Joint teams must verify whether taxes were fully paid during license transfers and reconcile extraction, tax, and export data across agencies.” - L. Munkhbaatar, Minister of Justice and Home Affairs (gogo.mn)

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Court Ruling Restores Full Control of National IT Park After 14-Year Dispute

Published: 2025-10-06

A Mongolian appellate court on October 3 upheld a lower court decision granting the National Information Technology Park (IT Park) the right to reclaim its premises from the Urgoo-2 cinema operator, concluding a 14-year property dispute. The March 31 first-instance ruling found the park is entitled to repossess its legally owned space and ordered the cinema vacated; New Tour Safaris LLC appealed but lost. With enforcement now cleared, the IT Park plans to operate at full capacity and build a technology and innovation ecosystem by partnering with government, private sector, startups, and international organizations. The decision is positioned as a sector catalyst, enabling expanded research, education, and creative tech production infrastructure that could strengthen Mongolia’s digital economy and startup pipeline. No named officials were quoted in the report.

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Ruling Party Caucus Fails to Meet as Intra-Party Rift Deepens, Budget Timeline at Risk

Published: 2025-10-06

The ruling MPP caucus in the State Great Khural canceled its scheduled meeting on October 6, reflecting a widening split stemming from the party leadership contest. Lawmaker P. Sainzorig called for Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar’s resignation, alleging the cabinet misled the public and destabilized the economy during its first 100 days, and flagged reported disruptions at the State Treasury. In response, Finance Minister B. Javkhlan defended fiscal operations and external assessments, citing stable sovereign ratings and sufficient reserves to cover four to five months of imports. The standoff threatens to complicate passage of the 2026 state budget, which must be approved by November 15 under law, raising procedural and market-confidence risks if internal cohesion within the majority remains unresolved.

“The State Treasury’s operations are normal… Internationally, Mongolia is being assessed as stable.” - Finance Minister B. Javkhlan (news.mn)

“The Prime Minister should resign after the government crashed the economy and misinformed the public in its first 100 days.” - MP P. Sainzorig (news.mn)

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Opposition Leverage Grows as MPs Move to Oust Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar

Published: 2025-10-06

Ruling party fractures are resurfacing in Ulaanbaatar, with lawmakers reportedly collecting signatures to dismiss Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar just months after the previous cabinet fell. Media suggest 30–40 MPs have signed a motion initiated on MP Kh. Bulgantuya’s letterhead, while backers for a no-confidence vote could reach 70–80—enough to topple the government if materialized. The Democratic Party (DP), holding 42 seats, is depicted as pivotal: all but three DP MPs are said to favor removal, though party chair O. Tsogtgerel and MPs S. Erdenebold and O. Amgalanbaatar allegedly oppose. The piece frames internal DP tensions through the lens of 2017, when defections shielded U. Khurelsukh’s government and damaged the defectors’ careers. The DP now faces a strategic choice that could determine its standing in 2027–2028 elections. No official statements were cited in the report.

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Published: 2025-10-06

A commentary in news.mn argues that Mongolia’s proposed Tobacco Control Law would eliminate e-cigarettes and heated products from the market, consolidating sales of traditional cigarettes among a few companies. The author likens the measure to the country’s “coal theft” controversy, asserting that state-backed regulation would enable private gain while undermining competition and tax revenues. The piece claims provisions appear favorable to two firms—Altangadas LLC and Voltam LLC—and warns that higher taxes and bans could shift consumers to illicit channels via Telegram and WeChat, diminishing oversight and public health outcomes. It frames the policy as political market capture under the banner of health and child protection, suggesting it would restrict consumer choice and entrench a “lawful monopoly.” No officials are quoted or identified as supporting the bill in the article.

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No-Confidence Push Targets PM Zandanshatar over Mining Royalty Cut and Ministerial Appointment Dispute

Published: 2025-10-06

Lawmakers led by MP P. Sainzorig are gathering signatures to file a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar, citing two alleged constitutional breaches: a cabinet decision that temporarily lowers mineral royalties when firms trade at least a quarter of exports on the domestic commodities exchange, and the PM’s move to appoint MP B. Enkhbayar as justice minister before parliamentary swearing-in. Sainzorig argues the August-approved change could forgo roughly MNT 200 billion in coal-related revenue and plans to seek Constitutional Court review. Separately, Speaker D. Amarbayasgalan said he filed a police complaint against Enkhbayar, clouding his prospective appointment. The standoff has already stalled parliament and risks escalating into a broader government crisis as factions within the ruling party maneuver for control.

Coverage:

Economy

Analysts Warn Budget Overly Optimistic as ADB Cuts Growth Outlook on Coal Risks

Published: 2025-10-06

The Asian Development Bank trimmed Mongolia’s GDP growth forecasts to 5.7% for both 2025 and 2026, down from 6.6% and 5.9%, citing weaker coking coal demand from China, logistics bottlenecks, and fiscal vulnerabilities. ADB highlights Oyu Tolgoi’s underground expansion as a key growth driver but urges diversification, stronger budget discipline, and investment in logistics, human capital, and climate‑resilient agriculture. In parallel, economist Ch. Otgochuluu argues the 2025 budget overestimates coal exports at 90 million tonnes and overlooks external shocks from Russia’s fuel constraints and China’s potential deflation, while domestic risks include a weakening tugrik and high food inflation. He criticizes politically driven spending and calls for prioritizing health and education pay and capacity.

“The 2025 budget fails to properly account for risks from Russia and China and remains weighed down by politically motivated, low‑return programs.” - Economist Ch. Otgochuluu (news.mn)

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Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi Opens Deep-China Sales Route via Caofeidian Port

Published: 2025-10-06

Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi (ETT) sold 6,400 tons of washed coking coal for delivery to China’s Caofeidian port through the Mongolian Stock Exchange on October 6, marking a new export corridor beyond traditional land crossings (Gashuunsukhait–Gants Mod, Hangi, Shivee Khuren). Caofeidian, in Tangshan, Hebei—within the Bohai Economic Rim and linked to over 110 ports in 70 countries—offers access to end users in China’s industrial heartland and third-country markets via Pacific shipping. The debut auction drew four bidders, clearing at USD 165.6 per ton, totaling about USD 1.1 million. Routing to Caofeidian is intended to broaden ETT’s customer base, reduce reliance on border-constrained trucking routes, and align Mongolian coal with seaborne benchmarks and downstream steel producers in North and Northwest China.

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Central Bank Sets 2026 Monetary Policy Path, Targets Inflation at 6% Ceiling

Published: 2025-10-06

Mongolbank briefed the Democratic Party caucus in Parliament on the draft resolution outlining 2026 monetary policy priorities, signaling a continuation of tight inflation management. The central bank aims to cap inflation at 6% (+1) in 2026 and 5% (+1) in 2027, aligning with regional peer targets and anchoring expectations as fiscal plans for 2026 advance. The session also reviewed interlinked drafts for the 2026 state budget, the Sovereign Wealth (National Wealth) Fund budget, and the social and health insurance funds—highlighting coordination needs between monetary restraint and fiscal allocations. Working group leader MP B. Tüvshin is slated to present assessments on the budget package, a key step before committee markups and plenary debates that will shape interest-rate, liquidity, and exchange-rate considerations for 2026.

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Regulators Advance Measures to Ease Foreign Access to Mongolia’s Capital Market

Published: 2025-10-06

Mongolia’s Financial Regulatory Commission’s Capital Market Policy Council reviewed steps to expand foreign participation in the securities market and simplify onboarding. A dedicated working group proposed adopting internationally used client verification and account-opening tools—such as Legal Entity Identifier (LEI), Trulioo, Sumsub, e-KYC, and a Portfolio Investment Account (PIA) model—to enable non-resident individuals and entities to open accounts and trade more easily. The council also backed finalizing and approving a “Securities Borrowing and Lending” regulation in 2025, with related infrastructure institutions amending their rules accordingly. If implemented, these changes would align market access and KYC standards with global practices, lower entry barriers for foreign investors, and support liquidity and product development, positioning the local exchange for more cross-border portfolio flows.

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Oxford Economist Paul Collier Backs Recut of Oyu Tolgoi Loan Interest to 6%, Urges Trust-Building Renegotiation

Published: 2025-10-06

Oxford University professor Paul Collier urged Mongolia and Rio Tinto to rebalance Oyu Tolgoi’s financing terms by cutting the accrued shareholder loan interest rate from 11% to roughly 6%, citing comparable market benchmarks and Mongolia’s own borrowing cost. He argued the original 11% might have been defensible in early, riskier phases but is now excessive given project maturity and collateral strength. Collier framed the rate reset as a catalyst for a “new beginning” in a long-term partnership, encouraging periodic updates to reflect changing conditions and improved information, as seen internationally. He endorsed extending similar investment agreement principles to Canadian-held strategic copper assets to protect national interests while reducing information asymmetries.

“The previously calculated 11% interest is now clearly too high; there is a solid basis to reduce it to around 6%.” - Prof. Paul Collier (urug.mn)

“This is not the first nor the last agreement; as circumstances change, renegotiation is normal.” - Prof. Paul Collier (urug.mn)

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ETT Coal Exports Hit All-Time Monthly High After Emergency Oversight Regime

Published: 2025-10-06

State-owned Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi (ETT) exported a record 3.2 million tonnes of coal in September via Gashuunsukhait and Hangi, up from 2.7 million tonnes in August. The surge follows the government’s July 9 decision to impose a three-month special regime at ETT to accelerate economic growth, bolster foreign-currency inflows, and unblock operations. During the period, suspended exchange trading was restored, enabling 75 trades that sold 5.8 million tonnes and generated US$513.8 million. Monthly coal haulage rose from 1.7 million to 2.8 million tonnes; equipment readiness improved from 56% to 81%; and a new dashboard system enabled real-time monitoring of mining and transport. A new pit at Tsankhi began operations, allowing higher-quality coking coal to be sold at international prices and lifting per-unit economic efficiency by 40%. September’s export volume marks ETT’s highest monthly figure on record.

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Bers Finance Launches MNT 29 Billion Asset-Backed Securities Offering with 19.5% Yield on MSE

Published: 2025-10-06

Bers Finance, a non-bank financial institution, opened primary market trading for its fourth asset-backed securities (ABS) tranche on the Mongolian Stock Exchange, totaling MNT 29 billion across 290,000 units priced at MNT 100,000 each. The Bers 4.0 ABS offers a 19.5% annual yield, currently the highest among exchange-listed ABS in Mongolia. Regulators highlighted recent tax and fee adjustments designed to support lower-risk investment products.

“By focusing on terms for lower-risk investment products and introducing specific adjustments to taxes and fees, we are seeing results.” - T. Tserenbadral, Deputy Chair, Financial Regulatory Commission (ikon.mn)

“Because these securities are backed by underlying assets, they can serve as among the least risky investments, and market participants have earned investors’ trust.” - B. Dulguun, Acting CEO, Mongolian Stock Exchange (ikon.mn)

Bers Finance has issued three ABS tranches since 2022, successfully repaying two; the Bers 3.0 tranche is scheduled to complete repayment in early 2026. Ulzii & Co acts as underwriter, with Golomt Capital and Tenger Capital as syndicators; Dashnyam Partner (legal), Onch Audit (audit), and UAF Asset Management (trustee) support the issuance.

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Education Spending Abroad Widens Services Deficit as Outbound Students Surge

Published: 2025-10-06

Mongolia’s services balance showed a $3 billion deficit last year, with education outflows a growing driver. The country earned $41.2 million from exporting education services in 2024 but spent $602.5 million on education abroad—roughly 15 times more, exceeding annual export revenues from iron ore or from cashmere and meat combined. Outbound Mongolian students rose from 39,400 in 2023 to 50,100 in 2024, equal to about 30% of domestic higher-education enrollment, which has remained near 150,000. Analysts link the trend to weak domestic university competitiveness, limited career prospects, and pay gaps; Mongolia’s average monthly wage is about $733, far below advanced economies. Rankings place leading state universities far down global tables, and talent retention is hampered by constrained academic freedom and scarce staff development funding.

“Spending over $600 million a year on education is positive, but the real issue is whether graduates can return and work at home.” - Economist A. Ulziidelger (eagle.mn)

“Brain drain is underway… without academic freedom, good professors leave, harming higher education and the country’s future development.” - D. Tungalag, civil society coordinator (eagle.mn)

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VAT Refunds: Q3 E-Receipt Registration Deadline Set for Oct. 8 at 23:59

Published: 2025-10-06

Individuals must register their third-quarter 2025 e-receipts by 23:59:59 on October 8 to qualify for Mongolia’s VAT refund incentive. The deadline applies to all eligible purchases recorded through the e-barimt system for the July–September period. Timely submission ensures inclusion in the next refund cycle, a key consumer incentive designed to formalize transactions and improve tax compliance. For businesses, ensuring customers receive valid e-receipts before the cutoff can affect loyalty and sales, as refunds are tied to properly issued fiscal receipts. Missing the registration window typically defers eligibility to future cycles, reducing near-term consumer cashbacks. Authorities generally urge users to verify receipt details in the e-barimt app and resolve discrepancies before the cutoff to avoid processing delays. No official statement accompanied the reminder, but the deadline is standard for quarterly VAT refund processing.

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World Bank Flags Fiscal Overhaul Needs, Urges Shift from Demand-Led Policies to Structural Reforms

Published: 2025-10-06

A new World Bank fiscal review urges Mongolia to tighten budget rules and pivot from demand-driven policymaking to supply-side and structural reforms as Parliament debates the 2026 budget. Key risks include weak compliance with fiscal rules, procyclical spending, rising debt vulnerabilities, and rigid expenditures—now over 55% of the budget—driven by social transfers and pension subsidies. The report recommends progressive personal income tax bands with a zero rate for low earners and higher rates on top incomes and capital income, cautioning that VAT exemptions and rebates disproportionately benefit wealthier households. It calls for immediate pension reform, higher excise taxes on tobacco and alcohol to improve health outcomes and revenues, better targeting of social assistance (notably the universal child money program), and redesigning benefits to encourage work. Health financing should shift toward essential medicines to reduce out-of-pocket burdens, while education spending needs targeted investments to close quality gaps. Public investment management is flagged as inefficient, with only $0.22 in capital formation per $1 spent, necessitating stricter project selection, sequencing, and transparency, including for SOEs. The overarching message: institutional discipline and medium-term budgeting are critical to stabilize revenues heavily exposed to commodity cycles and to sustain inclusive growth.

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Diplomacy

Political Consultations Advance Mongolia–Chile Cooperation Agenda in Mining, Agri, and Renewables

Published: 2025-10-06

Mongolia and Chile held their third round of political consultations in Santiago on October 3, assessing five decades of ties and prioritizing deeper, results-focused cooperation. The delegations agreed to strengthen the legal framework for collaboration and to expand work in mining, agriculture, renewable energy, environmental protection, and education. Practical steps discussed included activating links with Chile’s export promotion agency ProChile, building connections between the two countries’ chambers of commerce, and exploring opportunities with Chile’s state-owned copper giant Codelco in mining-related areas. The meeting was co-led by A. Anand, Director of the Department for the Americas, Middle East and Oceania at Mongolia’s Foreign Ministry, and Rodrigo Olsen Olivares, Secretary General of Chile’s Foreign Ministry, according to Mongolia’s MFA. The talks signal a push to shift the relationship toward trade and sector partnerships with clear economic outcomes.

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Infrastructure

Government Affirms Fuel Supply Is Stable; Plans Financing for New Storage Tanks as Refinery Progresses

Published: 2025-10-06

Industry and Minerals Minister G. Damdinyam said national fuel supply remains stable despite localized distribution issues, particularly in western provinces where Euro-5 deliveries have faced limits. Authorities report roughly 30 days of inventory on hand and are preparing policy support to expand strategic storage, an area that has seen little investment for decades. The government aims to mobilize about MNT 50 billion in concessional financing via the 2026 state budget and programs to help private operators build tanks capable of holding at least one month of supply—an important buffer for a landlocked, import-reliant market sensitive to Russian refinery outages and logistics constraints. Construction of the Dornogovi oil refinery continues, with full commissioning targeted by end-2027, which could reduce import risks over time.

“Fuel supply is operating normally… We plan to provide about MNT 50 billion in concessional financing so companies can build storage to hold at least one month of national demand.” - G. Damdinyam, Minister of Industry and Minerals (montsame.mn)

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Ulaanbaatar Advances Ring-Road Program: Second Ring Feasibility Study Progresses as First Ring Tender Opens

Published: 2025-10-06

Ulaanbaatar is moving ahead with its two-tier “New Ring Road” program to relieve chronic congestion and link peripheral districts. City authorities are finalizing the feasibility study for the Second Ring, which will feature bridges, cycling and pedestrian lanes, and green areas. Route options include three alignments in the east (5.7–6.6 km) and three in the west (14.9–15.1 km), connecting from the 22nd checkpoint through Takhilt, Nairamdal Road, Narangiin Street terminus, and Ulaanchuluut to Bayankhoshuu; the eastern section would run via Bayanzurkh’s 24th khoroo, the National Center for Mental Health area, Uliastai and Gachuurt to intersect the Tuul expressway. In parallel, the city has launched an EPC+F tender for the 24.7 km First Ring, with analysis indicating average congestion could drop 19–20% by 2030, easing key corridors such as Peace Avenue, Moscow Avenue, Narnii Road, and Aжилчны Street.

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Ulaanbaatar Orders Builders to Replace Rusted Water Lines or Face Construction Halts

Published: 2025-10-06

Ulaanbaatar’s biweekly leadership meeting reviewed city tasks at 80.3% completion and tightened enforcement on urban management and construction practices. Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar directed construction firms to upgrade utility networks to standards, citing persistent “rusty water” complaints in Yarmag and warning of penalties for non-compliance. The city said it renewed 4.8 km of clean-water mains last year and will escalate oversight of heavy trucks that damage roads, following incidents on Nükht Road during Yarmag developments. Authorities also reported steps to expand green spaces, crack down on unregistered vehicles, and clear land for a new heavy-vehicle parking area, while advancing demolition of an unsafe building in Bayanzürkh.

“If developers do not replace corroded water lines within the set timeframe, we will suspend their construction operations.” - Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar (news.mn)

“Developers profit yet build without proper standards, leaving taxpayers to fix the damage—that cannot continue.” - Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar (news.mn)

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Erchim Khuuchnii Street Section to Close Four Nights for Road Widening Works in Bayangol District

Published: 2025-10-06

Ulaanbaatar will temporarily close a 0.7 km stretch of Erchim Khuuchnii (Energy) Street between the Hösög Trade west-south junction and the Ajilchny Street junction to advance a 5.9 km road widening and major rehabilitation project in Bayangol District’s 20th khoroo. The closure runs from 23:00 on October 9 to 06:00 on October 13, during which drivers should use alternate routes. The project is part of ongoing efforts to expand capacity and improve traffic flow on one of the city’s industrial corridors linking western residential areas with central employment zones. The timetable suggests night-focused works to reduce daytime disruption, but commuters should anticipate detours and potential congestion on parallel arteries. The Capital City Road Development Department advised motorists to plan ahead and follow posted traffic guidance for the duration of the works.

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Ulaanbaatar Advances TPP-5, Selecting Private Partner and Rail-Linked Site

Published: 2025-10-06

Ulaanbaatar’s planned Fifth Thermal Power Plant (TPP-5) has moved forward with Mitime International chosen as the private partner following a competitive tender. The project will be sited on the ash dump area of the existing Second Thermal Power Plant, a location selected for established road and rail access and available fuel and ash storage capacity. The “Hubei Institute of Energy Research and Design” is drafting equipment and structural designs using parameters for extreme cold and seismic loads. Coal supply is slated to come by rail from Baganuur and Shivee-Ovoo mines. With a planned capacity of 300 MW electricity and 340 Gcal heat, TPP-5 aims to stabilize Ulaanbaatar’s power and heating, supplying the western districts including Tavan Shar, the 21st microdistrict, “Khilchin” town, Bayankhoshuu, and the 1st, 3rd–4th microdistricts—about 40,000 households.

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Published: 2025-10-06

Ulaanbaatar opened a 1.5 km roadway connecting Narnii Zam with the General’s Club area in Bayanzürkh District’s 37th khoroo on October 6, easing east–central traffic flows. The city’s Road Development Department said pedestrian sidewalks will be completed by October 15, after which the project will be submitted to the state commission for final acceptance. The project broke ground this year and is being built by Shine Hotyn Tsamkhag LLC. The new link is expected to relieve congestion on key east–west corridors and improve access to cultural and administrative facilities near the General’s Club. Officials emphasized phased delivery—vehicular traffic now, pedestrians next week—to accelerate mobility gains ahead of full handover. No budget, traffic capacity, or complementary public transport adjustments were disclosed.

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New Road Opens Linking Khunnu 2222 Residential Area to River Garden Complex

Published: 2025-10-06

Ulaanbaatar authorities have opened a newly built two-lane, 120-meter road connecting the Khunnu 2222 residential complex to the River Garden housing estate in Khan-Uul District’s 17th khoroo. Construction began last month following an agreement with Eco Construction LLC to demolish a company-owned warehouse to make way for the link. The short connector is expected to ease local traffic circulation between two high-density developments near the city’s southern corridor and may reduce travel times to key arteries leading to the airport and Yarmag area. While no traffic capacity data were released, the project reflects ongoing efforts to incrementally expand road infrastructure within rapidly growing residential zones, where private land and assets often need to be reallocated to complete urban links. No official statements were provided in the report.

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Society

Teachers Launch Daily Sit‑In Over Pay and Working Conditions, Warn of Possible Strike

Published: 2025-10-06

Teachers rallied on Sükhbaatar Square to demand salary increases and improved working conditions, announcing a weeklong daily sit-in from 11:00 to 15:00. Organizers said they seek urgent government action and are exploring talks with professional associations and teacher representatives in the coming days to negotiate pay adjustments. Protest leaders also signaled escalation if their demands are not met, including a potential nationwide work stoppage. The sustained protest schedule suggests growing labor pressure on the education sector and could disrupt schools if negotiations stall. Authorities face immediate expectations to present a timetable for wage discussions and workplace reforms to avert broader industrial action and maintain classroom continuity. No named officials publicly responded at the time of reporting, and dialogue frameworks are reportedly being arranged to open formal negotiations.

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Published: 2025-10-06

Mongolia’s police issued a public alert on a new phishing scheme circulating via social media and messaging apps. Users receive messages—sometimes from compromised contacts—claiming, “Are we dating the same girl? Your photo is circulating; tell the admin to delete it,” followed by a link. Authorities say clicking the link can compromise bank details and passwords to platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Telegram, alongside other data stored on mobile devices. The tactic exploits curiosity and reputational concern to prompt hasty clicks, a common hook in social engineering. The advisory underscores rising cybercrime risks and the need for heightened digital hygiene in Mongolia’s fast-growing online economy. Organizations should reinforce employee awareness and verify any unexpected messages before engaging or sharing credentials. No arrests or incident totals were disclosed.

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Probe Launched After Chinese Workers Seen Harvesting Hay on Allocated Pasture in Selenge

Published: 2025-10-06

Authorities are investigating reports that Chinese nationals harvested and transported hay from land allocated for natural haymaking in Selenge, according to photos and posts shared on Oct. 2 by a local journalist in Dornod. Dornod Governor Sh. Yol said a task force led by the provincial Food and Agriculture Department is inspecting whether permits were improperly transferred and will confiscate hay for local revenue if violations are confirmed. The incident stems from a government decision directing eastern provinces to support areas unable to prepare sufficient forage for winter, under Resolution No. 56 (2025). Selenge requested access to harvest in Dornod’s Khalkhgol soum, and local authorities instructed cooperation. Findings will determine who authorized any foreign involvement and potential sanctions.

“If the permit was transferred to others, we will take legal action and seize the harvested hay as local revenue.” - Governor Sh. Yol (gogo.mn)

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Environment

Half-Coke Fuel Rolls Out in Ulaanbaatar with New Quality Standard and 500 Sales Points

Published: 2025-10-06

Ulaanbaatar begins retailing semi-coke (half-coke) fuel across 500 contract points, priced at MNT 5,000 per 25 kg sack, alongside remaining improved briquettes at MNT 3,750. Purchases run through the HOTULA app, “Sain” card, or citizen ID QR; authorities say stock is sufficient and outlets are sited off main roads. A revised national standard, MNS 5679:2025, tightens specifications for semi-coke: ≥5,500 kcal/kg calorific value, ≤0.5% sulfur, ≤12% volatiles, ≤6% moisture, ≤20% ash, and fines capped at 5% of bag weight. Officials project lower emissions than prior briquettes, while field reports show confusion on usage and safety among residents, underscoring the need for guidance.

“Using semi-coke could cut air pollution in the capital by 40–45%, and up to 50% with strong implementation.” - Deputy Mayor A. Amartuvshin (itoim.mn)

“We have no clear instructions; people say it ignites fast and gets very hot, which seems dangerous if used incorrectly.” - Local resident (itoim.mn)

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Disaster Agency Orders Budgeting and Feed Imports as 25 Districts Face Severe Winter Risk

Published: 2025-10-06

Mongolia’s National Emergency Commission (NEC) warned of difficult 2025–2026 winter-spring conditions after a drought risk assessment classified 25 of 330 soums as “very high risk” and 54 as “high.” A task force led by NEC Secretary Col. T. Bayarkhuu inspected western provinces, where authorities are rushing to build hay and feed reserves and move more livestock into markets to ease grazing pressure and support household incomes. Plans include selling 500,000 head in Khovd and channeling 30% of Uvs’ herd into economic circulation, while provincial safety stocks remain modest. Deputy Prime Minister and NEC head S. Amarsaikhan instructed regional leaders to secure budget lines, coordinate data across agencies, enable expedited feed imports, curb price gouging, and prevent disputes during transhumance.

“Local governments must include the funding needed to pass the winter and spring with fewer disruptions in their budgets.” - S. Amarsaikhan, Deputy Prime Minister and NEC Head (urug.mn)

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Rapeseed Output Builds as 2,100 Tons of Oilseeds Harvested from New ‘Chinza’ Variety

Published: 2025-10-06

Fifty-four agribusinesses have harvested 2,100 tons of oilseeds after planting the high-yield ‘Chinza’ rapeseed variety across 17,000 hectares, according to the agriculture ministry. The cultivar can produce up to 45 centners per hectare under optimal conditions and 25–35 centners in Mongolia’s dry, cool climate, supporting a stronger domestic edible oil supply chain. During a field visit to crop-growing regions, Minister of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry J. Enkhbayar reviewed seed variety upgrades and crop rotation expansion at Achit Agro LLC. Authorities estimate farmers could collect over 10,000 tons of oilseeds this season, a volume expected to bolster food security and reduce reliance on imports by supplying local processors and stabilizing inputs for edible oil production.

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Innovation

Khan Bank Warns of AI-Created Phishing Sites, Urges Stronger User Security Checks

Published: 2025-10-06

Khan Bank and local media warn that cybercriminals are leveraging rapidly advancing AI tools to clone legitimate websites and steal personal and financial data. Users are advised to verify domain names carefully (e.g., spotting subtle changes like khanbank.com vs. khan-bank.com), check for HTTPS and lock icons, and rely on reputable antivirus software to flag suspicious sites. The guidance stresses never entering card numbers, internet banking credentials, or passwords on unfamiliar pages, and to immediately change credentials and reissue cards if data may have been exposed. Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) on banking apps, email, and social accounts is emphasized to reduce unauthorized access risk even if passwords are compromised. The alert underscores heightened phishing sophistication in Mongolia’s digital ecosystem and the need for vigilant user practices.

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E-Mongolia Adds Multilingual Certificates for 12 Key Public Services

Published: 2025-10-06

E-Mongolia, the government’s unified digital services platform, now issues 12 types of certificates and verifications in English, Russian, French, Korean, and Chinese. The expansion covers vital records and administrative checks frequently required by employers, banks, and foreign institutions, including birth and marriage registration extracts, confirmation of unmarried status, national ID and driver information, criminal liability status, social insurance contribution records, court-ordered debt clearance, and pension determinations (old-age, disability, survivor), as well as immunization records. The multilingual rollout aims to streamline cross-border documentation and reduce in-person requests for translations or apostilles. E-Mongolia reports 2.1 million users and currently delivers 1,268 services from 87 public bodies, underscoring continued digitization of state services and easier compliance for users dealing with international procedures.

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Mobicom Unveils Tech Pivot with Super App, Insurtech, Media Analytics, and Data Services at Mobiconnect 2025

Published: 2025-10-06

Mobicom Group showcased its transition from telecom to technology at the Mobiconnect 2025 event in Ulaanbaatar, launching new digital services across payments, media analytics, cloud, data, and insurance. Monpay was presented as a 2.1 million-user super app with integrated e-receipts and zero-interest installment shopping, while new music streamer Sonsy offers 20,000 tracks from 1,300 Mongolian artists with offline listening and licensed B2B music options. The group introduced Mobilife, providing free life insurance coverage of MNT 1–4 million to postpaid subscribers as it targets broader market penetration. WatchWise leverages VOO TV viewer data to optimize ad buys, and GEOPRO aggregates anonymized mobility data for urban planning and site selection. Executives outlined a “TELCO TO TECHCO” strategy and previewed an OTP-less authentication pathway via Mobi Open Gateway.

“We have obtained the third special license to provide life insurance and are offering free coverage of MNT 1–4 million to our postpaid users” - B. Ünenbat, Deputy CEO for Strategy, Mobicom Group (gogo.mn)

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Health

‘Gerelt’ Youth Health Initiative Expands to Four Ulaanbaatar Schools with Oyu Tolgoi Funding

Published: 2025-10-06

The “Gerelt” project, funded by Oyu Tolgoi and implemented by Good Neighbors, “Eruul Irээдүйн эзэд” NGO, and the Mongolian Jiu-Jitsu Federation, enters its sixth year targeting adolescent mental, reproductive, and physical health. For the 2025–2026 academic year, it will operate in Bayanzurkh District’s Schools No. 14, 69, 120, and 147. To date, the program reports 31,554 participants in mental health activities, establishment of school psychologists and counseling rooms in 25 schools, reproductive health training for 23,595 participants, and training of 465 peer counselors. Three jiu-jitsu clubs now engage 180 students, earning 44 medals in national and international events. This year’s priorities include strengthening school psychologists and health teachers, early risk detection and referral, model counseling rooms, student-led health clubs, and campus tree planting. Oyu Tolgoi’s cumulative funding totals about MNT 2.5 billion.

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