Politics
Cabinet Weighs Copper Smelter Tender Progress, Welfare Rule Changes, and Central Bank Securities Cap
Published: 2026-01-28
The Cabinet convened at 08:00 to review a broad agenda spanning industrial policy, social welfare administration, and market operations. Key items include an update on the copper smelter tender process—critical for value-added mining policy and export diversification—and approval of coordinates and licensing for common-use mineral exploration and extraction areas, which signals potential acceleration in construction and infrastructure materials supply. Ministers are also set to consider amendments to procedures and durations for social welfare pensions and benefits, and to set the annual ceiling for purchasing government and Bank of Mongolia securities, a lever affecting liquidity and interest rates. Additional items include a new “Security—Shared Participation” program, import quotas and categories for livestock and breeding materials to support herd genetics, and the annual designation of national champion herders, dairy workers, farmers, and collectives. Decisions could influence capital markets, mining procurement timelines, and agribusiness planning.
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Court Upholds Travel Ban for Ex–Deputy Speaker Kh. Bulgantuya, Rejects Restrictions for Ex–Parliament Secretariat Chief B. Baasandorj
Published: 2026-01-28
Ulaanbaatar’s primary court reviewed two related cases tied to an alleged attempt to unlawfully seize the powers of Mongolia’s highest state authority. On January 28, the court, upon appeal by prosecutors, imposed a travel ban on former Deputy Speaker Kh. Bulgantuya to prevent interference with criminal proceedings. Initial judicial rejection of the prosecution’s preventive measures was overturned by the chief judge, who found grounds to restrict her from leaving the country during the investigation. In a parallel ruling the same day, the chief judge upheld a lower decision declining preventive restrictions against former Parliament Secretariat head B. Baasandorj, citing insufficient evidence to justify such measures. Both matters stem from a broader probe reportedly led by intelligence authorities into coordinated preparations and attempted organization of forceful actions. No trial verdicts have been issued, and the cases remain under investigation.
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Two Officials Detained for 48 Hours in Anti-Corruption Probe into Alleged Bribery
Published: 2026-01-28
Mongolia’s Independent Authority Against Corruption detained two officials for 48 hours as part of an urgent investigation into alleged bribery tied to their previous roles. Those held are A. Byambadorj, a senior state inspector at the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources’ Monitoring, Evaluation and Internal Audit Department, and B. Munkhsaikhan, an engineer at the Khunnu City Development Corporation. Their homes and offices were searched, and both are under investigation for suspected corruption and accepting bribes, according to media citing official sources. The detentions follow a separate search and 48-hour detention of D. Togtokhsuren, director of state-owned Erdenes Critical Minerals, earlier this week, suggesting a widening probe in the resources and urban development sectors. No formal charges have been announced. Authorities indicated the operations were conducted on an urgent basis, signaling potential risk of evidence loss or flight.
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Energy Minister Faces Calls for Dismissal as Power Outages Trigger Political Showdown
Published: 2026-01-28
Mongolia’s energy sector is under renewed political pressure following persistent electricity and heating outages, with MP O. Shijir urging Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar to dismiss Energy Minister B. Choijilsuren and Deputy Prime Minister T. Dorjkhand for alleged management failures. Shijir framed the disruptions as a national security breach and criticized fragmented accountability after institutional restructuring. The minister countered that the crisis stems from decades of underinvestment and rapid demand growth, noting 600 MW of new capacity added since August 2022 but calling it insufficient. He said immediate priorities are accelerating new generation and expanding transmission and distribution. The dispute underscores governance strains as winter demand peaks and safety incidents at power plants heighten scrutiny of oversight and reform.
“We wake up to no power and come home to no power. Energy security in Mongolia has completely collapsed.” - MP O. Shijir (news.mn)
“This did not arise overnight; it is the result of more than 30 years of accumulated problems. Since August 2022, 600 MW has been commissioned, but it is not enough.” - Energy Minister B. Choijilsuren (news.mn)
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Opposition to Renew Push for PM Zandanshatar’s Ouster During Spring Session
Published: 2026-01-28
The Democratic Party (DP) caucus in parliament plans to renew its bid to oust Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar when the Spring Session opens on March 15, following a December cabinet decision to appoint 14 deputy ministers and re-establish several agencies, including the General Agency for Specialized Inspection. The DP argues the move contradicts calls for a leaner government and fiscal restraint. A bipartisan working group was formed at the end of the last session to draft amendments to the Law on Government that would eliminate the “deputy minister” position, but its progress stalled during the recess. DP caucus leader O. Tsogtgerel signaled the opposition could muster support quickly if the government does not reverse course:
“We could gather 32 signatures to dismiss the Prime Minister even today. But we are giving Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar time to dismiss the deputy ministers.” - O. Tsogtgerel, DP caucus leader (isee.mn)
Any no-confidence effort will test ruling party cohesion and the government’s restructuring agenda.
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Anti-Corruption Agency Detains State Miner’s Director over Alleged Abuse of Office and Illicit Enrichment
Published: 2026-01-28
Mongolia’s anti-corruption agency searched the office of D. Togtokhsuren, director of state-owned Erdenes Critical Minerals, and detained him for 48 hours under a prosecutor-approved urgent action. He is being investigated as a suspect under Criminal Code provisions for abuse of public office causing major damage and for illicit enrichment. Togtokhsuren, a former MP and ruling party caucus leader, became head of Mongolrostsvetmet in August 2024; the entity was renamed Erdenes Critical Minerals by a February 19, 2025 government resolution, retaining him as director. Investigators are probing whether a company allegedly linked to him profited substantially from coal transport services for Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi. His 2024 asset filing reported personal income of MNT 159 million—double the prior year—no car, and an apartment valued at MNT 800 million. Past complaints to the anti-corruption body over alleged bribery and tender coercion were opened for inquiry, though outcomes at the prosecutor’s stage remain unclear.
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Published: 2026-01-28
The Ministry of Family, Labor and Social Protection has declared 2026 the “Year to Promote Employment,” aligning with the cabinet’s 300-day action plan to translate economic growth into household gains. Presenting to the Cabinet, Minister T. Aubakir said the decision is part of targets set under the plan and will be executed through programs that boost job creation by supporting cooperation across economic sectors, regions, and localities. The Cabinet instructed ministers and provincial and Ulaanbaatar city governors to coordinate interagency efforts and provide necessary support to implement the initiative.
“This decision was made within the framework of implementing the goals included in the Government’s 300-day action plan to deliver economic growth to citizens.” - T. Aubakir, Minister of Family, Labor and Social Protection (montsame.mn)
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Election Authority Trains Parties on Transparent Financial Reporting Ahead of March Deadlines
Published: 2026-01-28
The General Election Commission (GEC) held training for political party leaders and finance staff on transparency, financial reporting, spending, and oversight, outlining three mandatory report types under law. Parties must submit financial statements to the GEC by February 10 and audited reports by March 15. The GEC will review submissions and forward them to the National Audit Office by April 5 for assessment, which is then incorporated into the annual budget execution report. The session emphasized accurate reporting, public disclosure, and proper primary documentation. The law prescribes two forms of state funding: annual allocations to parties that received over 1% of votes in the last election, and per-seat funding for parties and coalitions represented in Parliament. At least 20% of state funds must support political participation of women, seniors, youth, and persons with disabilities, while minimum 15% each must go to civic and human rights education, policy research and programs, and internal party democracy initiatives.
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Economy
Government Shortlists Four Bidders for $700m Copper Smelter; Final Selection Due in Q1 2026
Published: 2026-01-28
The government advanced plans to build a copper concentrate smelting and refining plant anchored to Erdenet, shortlisting four bidders and targeting a final investor-contractor decision in Q1 2026. The contenders are China’s NFC; Jiangxi Copper; a three-firm Chinese consortium (Liantou New Energy Technology, China ENFI Engineering, Shanxi Northern Copper Industry); and Switzerland’s Glencore International AG. Authorities estimate about $700 million in investment with a two-year construction window, aiming to process Erdenet’s output into roughly 120,000 tons of refined copper annually, reducing dependence on concentrate exports and improving value capture. The state created a task force in late 2025 and circulated invitations to 55 companies in 20+ countries; 13 responded from seven countries before four advanced.
“We will complete the final selection within this quarter and ensure an open, competitive process to bring in the most experienced, high-technology strategic partner.” - S. Byambatsogt, Chief of Cabinet Secretariat (gogo.mn)
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Ulaanbaatar Releases 5,000 Tons of Price-Stabilized Meat Through 375 Retail Points
Published: 2026-01-28
Ulaanbaatar has begun selling reserved meat for the spring season across 375 outlets in nine districts, setting prices at MNT 13,000 for mutton and MNT 15,000 for beef. City authorities prepared 5,000 tons (60% mutton, 40% beef), advancing the program earlier than usual due to tighter supply and higher market prices. Officials report continuous inspections of quality, storage, and safety, with both scheduled and surprise checks, and say no violations have been found to date. The meat was procured in November–December from enterprises meeting national standards, with storage and freshness requirements emphasized. The move is intended to moderate seasonal price spikes in a market where meat relies heavily on domestic livestock supply chains and winter logistics, with retail distribution focused on neighborhood groceries across all districts.
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MIAT Offers 20% Discount on Ulaanbaatar–Hohhot Roundtrip Flights Through March 31, 2026
Published: 2026-01-28
State-owned carrier MIAT has introduced a 20% fare reduction on flights between Ulaanbaatar and Hohhot, effective for bookings made from January 26 to March 31, 2026. The discounted travel period runs February 1–March 31, 2026. The promotion targets winter and early spring travel on the Mongolia–Inner Mongolia route, potentially supporting tourism, business visits, and regional connectivity during a traditionally slower season. Travelers are advised to confirm availability as seats on discounted fares may be limited and blackout dates are not specified. MIAT provided a customer service line (+976 11 333-999) for ticketing and details. No additional changes to schedule frequency or baggage policies were announced in the notice, and no official comments were attributed to company executives in the source report.
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Erdenes Mongol Cuts Management by 32% and Streamlines Structure Under Government Efficiency Drive
Published: 2026-01-28
Erdenes Mongol announced a 32% reduction in management positions and a 10% overall headcount cut, aligning with the government’s push for profit-making state-owned enterprises and leaner administration. The company said it dismantled multi-layered councils, groups, and managerial tiers with overlapping functions to form a smaller, more professional team. It will also accelerate efforts to eliminate duplication across its subsidiaries and optimize governance. The measures support the “Compact State” and “Discipline Initiative” campaigns. As of Q1 2025, Erdenes Mongol oversaw 20 subsidiaries employing about 20,200 people, with annual payroll costs exceeding MNT 1 trillion. The restructuring signals a continued shift toward efficiency and clearer lines of responsibility across Mongolia’s state-owned mining and energy portfolio.
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Ulaanbaatar Development Corporation Budget Jumps 2.5 Times to MNT 7.9 Billion, Transparency Questioned
Published: 2026-01-28
Ulaanbaatar’s 2026 budget allocations drew criticism at a public discussion on city finances, with participants alleging poor transparency and noncompliance with disclosure laws. The Ulaanbaatar Development Corporation JSC’s budget reportedly increased 2.5 times from 2025 to MNT 7.9 billion, with 48% earmarked under a single “Projects and programs” category lacking detailed breakdowns. The City Urban Development and Standards Agency’s 2026 allocation was said to be up 75% from 2024 to MNT 5.4 billion, while the “20-Minute City Development Center” SOE was assigned MNT 2.5 billion for 2026. Critics argued that spending plans, line-item details, and audit follow-through remain opaque despite legal requirements for open data, heightening governance risks for city-led public-private initiatives. The Mongolian Youth Alliance’s Budget Program adviser Z. Enkhbayar highlighted limited implementation of the Glass Accounts Law in his presentation on budget transparency.
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January Tourist Arrivals Reach 41,560 as China and Russia Lead Inflows
Published: 2026-01-28
As of January 26, 2026, Mongolia recorded 41,560 tourist entries, exceeding the same period last year, according to the Ulaanbaatar City Tourism Department. On January 26 alone, 1,634 foreign visitors entered the country. The tally excludes entries for study, work, or permanent residence and reflects travelers crossing the border for tourism and other short-term purposes. By source market, China led with 17,104 visitors, followed by Russia at 15,036. South Korea (2,999), Japan (864), Kazakhstan (742), and the United States (632) rounded out the top contributors, with additional traffic from Belarus, the Philippines, France, the United Kingdom, and Vietnam. The early-year momentum suggests sustained regional demand, particularly from neighboring markets, and provides an initial indicator for 2026 inbound performance and capacity planning across air and land checkpoints.
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Regulator Tightens Nonbank Lending With Lower Debt-to-Income Cap and Fintech Checks
Published: 2026-01-28
Mongolia’s Financial Regulatory Commission (FRC) approved amendments to the Nonbank Financial Lending Regulation to curb rapid growth in consumer credit and reduce over‑indebtedness. The decision lowers the debt‑to‑income (DTI) ceiling for nonbank consumer loans from 60% to 55%, requiring nonbank financial institutions to calculate each borrower’s credit limit and verify compliance before issuing loans. The FRC will also require fintech loan limits to be included when calculating DTI and mandate that advertisements disclose interest rates and key terms. The measures aim to cut duplicate digital lending, strengthen responsible lending practices, and support long‑term household financial stability. The move follows a 2025 parliamentary resolution and aligns with broader efforts to temper consumer credit risks in Mongolia’s increasingly app‑driven lending market.
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Diplomacy
Ulaanbaatar Advances Toward US Direct Flights with USTDA-Funded Safety Prep
Published: 2026-01-28
The Cabinet approved a draft grant agreement to fund the next phase of technical assistance needed for launching direct air service to the United States. Following a 2023 bilateral air transport agreement that established the legal basis for flights, Mongolia must pass the FAA’s International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA) and meet the US Transportation Security Administration’s security requirements. In 2024, the Civil Aviation Authority hired The Wicks Group Consulting for advisory support; agencies are now implementing recommendations. The government is negotiating USTDA financing for a second-stage consultancy to complete IASA preparations, after which a new agreement between the Civil Aviation Authority and The Wicks Group would proceed. This step is pivotal for opening long-haul connectivity to US hubs, potentially reducing travel times and enabling cargo and tourism growth once safety and security benchmarks are met.
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Parliament Speaker Plans First Official Visit to Russia to Discuss Fuel and Power Issues
Published: 2026-01-28
Parliament Speaker N. Uchral will make his first official foreign visit since taking office, traveling to Russia on February 4–9. The agenda is expected to include talks on fuel supply and electricity—key areas where Mongolia relies on Russian imports and cross-border power arrangements. The trip follows the last speaker-level visit in June 2023 by then-Speaker G. Zandanshatar, who met State Duma Chairman Vyacheslav Volodin. The timing also comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin’s September 2–3, 2024 visit to Mongolia for the 85th anniversary of the Khalkhin Gol battles, underscoring ongoing high-level engagement. Outcomes could influence Mongolia’s energy security, pricing stability, and winter supply planning, given recent regional market volatility and infrastructure constraints. No official statements on agreements or deliverables have been released yet.
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Infrastructure
Rolling Power Cuts Continue as Thermal Power Plant No. 4 Repairs Another Boiler Leak
Published: 2026-01-28
Ulaanbaatar and several provinces remain under rolling electricity restrictions for a seventh day after a second boiler leak at Thermal Power Plant No. 4, which supplies roughly 60% of the capital’s electricity and about 70% of its heat. Following repairs to one boiler over the weekend, the plant’s seventh boiler subsequently ruptured, prompting renewed, rotating outages of up to two hours. Grid operators warned locations may change to prevent system emergencies, citing fuel conveyor issues at the Booroljuut plant affecting the unified grid. Thermal Power Plant No. 4 operates eight boilers with 680 MW capacity; ongoing faults have constrained output and forced continued curtailments. The plant says a 60-person team is working around the clock in two shifts to finish repairs and bring units back ahead of schedule to stabilize supply.
“A 60-person repair team is working 24/7 in two shifts, and we aim to return the unit to readiness ahead of the planned schedule.” - P. Bayarmagnai, Boiler Shop Repair Engineer, Thermal Power Plant No. 4 (ikon.mn)
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Two-Hour Rolling Power Cuts Continue in Ulaanbaatar as Grid Strains; TPP-4 Repair Accelerated
Published: 2026-01-28
Ulaanbaatar’s power distributor is enforcing two-hour rolling electricity cuts across all districts today as Mongolia’s grid operates under stress. The National Dispatching Center has ordered scheduled curtailments to prevent emergency conditions, with night-time reductions also applied to charge the new battery storage system for use during morning and evening peaks. Peak demand reached 1,733 MW last night, with 210 MW curtailed; daytime restrictions today target roughly 150–200 MW. Output shortfalls persist after Børøljuut power plant delivered about 100 MW versus the 180 MW planned, increasing reliance on cuts. Repairs at Thermal Power Plant No. 4’s seventh boiler are underway around the clock by a 60-person, two-shift team, with efforts to restore capacity ahead of plan. Businesses have contributed approximately 30 MW in voluntary savings, authorities said.
“We apply night-time restrictions because overall consumption remains high, and we must charge the battery for use during peak hours.” - O. Naranbaatar, Senior Engineer, National Dispatching Center (ikon.mn, news.mn)
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Planned Thermal Power Plant No. 5 Targets Full Substitution of Electricity Imports
Published: 2026-01-28
Mongolia plans to build Thermal Power Plant No. 5 (TPP-5) in Bayangol District on a 26-hectare site to reduce reliance on imported power from Russia and China, which currently covers about 25% of national demand. The plant is designed for 300 MW electricity and 340 Gcal heat capacity, producing 2.221 billion kWh annually and supplying up to 4,822,300 GJ of heat at full load. Developers say 90% of output will feed the central grid, supporting reliable power for roughly 100,000 households and businesses and heat for 40,000 households in western Ulaanbaatar. A financing agreement has been signed; a Partnership Agreement implementation plan is under review, after which 12 annex contracts and seven implementation plans will be finalized to establish oversight mechanisms. The project will use air-cooling and low-temperature coal combustion to reduce water use and emissions, with the government highlighting price stabilization and reliability benefits.
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Ulaanbaatar Expands Solid Fuel Sales Points and Accelerates Safety Upgrades for Winter Heating
Published: 2026-01-28
The Cabinet reviewed Ulaanbaatar’s winter fuel supply and compliance, reporting steady deliveries of semi-coke and briquette fuels to ger districts and an expanded retail network. As of January 21, households received 269,019 tons of fuel with a further 19,544 tons in reserve. The city sells 25 kg bags of semi-coke at MNT 5,000 and has added 25 new sales points, bringing distribution to 24 warehouses and 425 outlets supported by 26 transport firms. Authorities said laboratory tests accompany each shipment of semi-coke. Efforts to reduce air pollution and carbon monoxide incidents include replacing damaged stoves with compliant double-combustion models and installing gas heaters for 5,000 households in Chingeltei and Bayangol districts. Carbon monoxide detectors were installed in 136,354 homes as of January 21, targeting 157,000 by the 2025–2026 season, with the remainder due before February. Additionally, 570 enterprises purchased 37,782.6 tons of middlings from Tavan Tolgoi Tulsh LLC.
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Parliament Approves ADB-Funded Programs to Upgrade Schools, Hospitals, Skills Training and Disaster Response
Published: 2026-01-28
Parliament ratified a General Financing Program enabling four nationwide projects backed by the Asian Development Bank, totaling $475 million on 25-year terms with a five-year grace period. The education component will finance construction of 32 modern schools and nine kindergartens to reduce class sizes and curb triple-shift teaching. Health upgrades will cover 17 provincial general hospitals, supplying emergency vehicles and expanding intensive care and surgical units. A workforce skills project will establish a specialized agricultural training school and integrate digital and innovation modules. Disaster resilience efforts will procure international-standard firefighting equipment, vehicles, and protective gear to strengthen regional response capacity, particularly for forest and steppe fires. The package signals a broad infrastructure and human-capital push that could alleviate service bottlenecks while supporting longer-term resilience and labor productivity, subject to timely implementation and procurement efficacy, according to Parliament’s Press and Public Relations Department (gogo.mn).
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Paid Smart Parking Sits Empty as Drivers Block First Lanes in Ulaanbaatar
Published: 2026-01-28
Ulaanbaatar’s smart paid parking network remains underused while drivers continue stopping in the first lane, worsening congestion and triggering daily fines. City officials say 33 sites were upgraded to smart systems last year, with 50 planned this year, offering pre-booking, automated payments, and EV charging. Despite availability—such as near the Bumbugur shopping center—many motorists avoid the 4,000 MNT hourly fee, instead occupying the first lane and in some cases damaging barriers. Authorities note about 800 drivers are fined daily for first-lane parking, with another 200 violations processed via the police 102 app. The practice reduces road throughput and contributes to avoidable traffic delays; enforcement aims to curb this “artificial congestion.” The article highlights the high public cost of roads and frames lane-blocking as an economic loss for the city.
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Ulaanbaatar Housing Redevelopment Limits Contractors to Domestic Firms, Allows Foreign Partnerships
Published: 2026-01-28
Ulaanbaatar Urban Housing LLC briefed Chinese construction and urban development representatives on its program to demolish and rebuild substandard residential blocks, outlining legal and procedural steps for execution. The company emphasized that only Mongolia-registered firms may serve as primary contractors to safeguard resident interests, ensure clear accountability, and reduce project delays. Eligibility requires permanent operations in Mongolia, familiarity with national building codes, and sufficient financial and human resources. Foreign investors and builders may participate through partnership agreements with domestic contractors. The policy signals a localization-first approach while keeping channels open for foreign capital and expertise via joint arrangements.
“Contractors for redevelopment projects are selected only from domestic companies to protect residents’ interests, keep accountability clear, and reduce the risk of delays.” - B. Purevsuren, Head of Administration and Finance, Ulaanbaatar Urban Housing LLC (gogo.mn)
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Society
Teachers’ Pay Dispute Reignites as Unions Allege Cuts Despite Promised 50% Raise
Published: 2026-01-28
Mongolia’s education unions say January’s promised 50% increase to teachers’ base pay has not translated into higher take-home salaries, citing delayed payrolls, reduced allowances, and budget shortfalls. They warn protest actions could resume if the government fails to deliver the negotiated package by month-end. The Education Ministry maintains base salaries rose to MNT 2.226 million for general school teachers and plans to lift them to about MNT 2.8 million by November, while moving away from multiple add-ons toward a higher base-pay model. Unions counter that folding allowances—such as meal, transport, and skills bonuses—into base pay or suspending them has left some staff earning less than in 2025, and that funding allocated in the 2026 budget is insufficient. Healthcare unions report similar issues, including unpaid 2025 performance bonuses and headcount cuts, signaling potential sector-wide unrest.
“Teachers ask whether we increased salaries or actually cut them. If commitments aren’t honored, we will continue our actions.” - Z. Tsogtgerel, Chair, Education and Science Workers’ Union (gogo.mn)
“The base salary has genuinely increased by 50%… We are shifting toward a structure where base pay provides real security.” - Education Minister P. Naranbayar (gogo.mn)
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78 Foreign Nationals Deported with 3–5 Year Re-entry Bans After Immigration Sweep
Published: 2026-01-28
The Immigration Agency deported 78 foreign nationals from 12 countries in January, imposing three- to five-year re-entry bans after compliance inspections. Most were Chinese (53) and Russian (11), with others from Uzbekistan (3), Vietnam (2), Kyrgyzstan (2), and seven from other countries. Authorities cited visa overstays, unauthorized employment, activity inconsistent with declared purpose of entry, and completed criminal sentences as grounds. The agency also transferred a Chinese national, identified as M.Y., wanted for fraud at home, to Chinese authorities on January 26–27 in coordination with the National Police Agency’s Criminal Police Department; his Mongolian residence permit was voided. The agency deported 1,222 foreigners in 2025, a 41.4% increase year over year, signaling tighter enforcement of immigration rules that could affect employers’ compliance practices and foreign workforce planning.
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Two Suspects Arrested for Alleged Robberies and Sexual Assaults Posing as Taxi Drivers in Ulaanbaatar
Published: 2026-01-28
Police in Ulaanbaatar detained two men, aged 19–22, suspected of robbing and sexually assaulting women after picking them up while posing as taxi drivers. Reports filed on January 5 and 23 indicate incidents in Songinokhairkhan District’s 31st khoroo and Chingeltei District’s 13th khoroo. Investigators from the Songinokhairkhan police traced a Prius-30 used to intimidate victims at knifepoint and identified the suspects. Authorities highlighted ongoing risks for passengers using unofficial ride services and urged vigilance, noting that women accounted for 30% of 682 reported robbery victims last year. The case underscores persistent safety concerns in informal transport and may prompt renewed calls for stricter oversight of unlicensed taxi operations and expanded safe transit options.
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Police Warn of Rising Apartment Pre‑Sale Scams; MNT 71 Billion in Losses Recorded in 2024
Published: 2026-01-28
Mongolia’s General Police Department cautioned homebuyers about a surge in fraud linked to apartment pre‑sale contracts, reporting 135 criminal cases last year that caused losses totaling MNT 71 billion, according to state media. Authorities urged prospective buyers to verify developers’ construction licenses through the government’s integrated construction information system at mcis.gov.mn before signing any agreements. Users can check whether a company holds a valid building permit by entering the firm’s name or registration number in the site’s permit section. Police emphasized skepticism toward advertisements offering unusually low prices or favorable terms and encouraged independent verification rather than relying on marketing claims. The advisory highlights enduring risks in the pre‑construction housing market, where regulatory oversight is improving but consumer due diligence remains essential.
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Environment
Published: 2026-01-28
Authorities launched agaar.gov.mn, a unified platform delivering real-time air quality data for Ulaanbaatar and all 21 provincial centers. Built under a Mongolia–Republic of Korea cooperation project, the system integrates internationally compliant automatic monitoring stations and processes readings for SO2, NOx, PM2.5, PM10, ozone, CO and core meteorological indicators via the MAMIS program. The stations—installed with Korean grant assistance—were formally handed over to the National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring on January 28. The platform is intended to improve transparency, enable data-driven policymaking, and support science-based pollution control measures. For businesses and residents, the service provides public access to location-specific conditions that can inform operations, planning, and health precautions. The initiative is led by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism with partners including Korea’s Ministry of Environment and Korea Environment Corporation.
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Ulaanbaatar to Require Euro 5 Fuel from June to Curb Pollution
Published: 2026-01-28
Ulaanbaatar city authorities and the Ministry of Environment will mandate Euro 5-standard fuel in the capital starting in June, aiming to reduce sulfur emissions and associated health impacts. The move accelerates an earlier plan slated for the second half of 2026, signaling tighter urban air-quality controls and potential shifts in fuel supply logistics and pricing. Industrial and Minerals Minister G. Damdinnjam underscored the environmental rationale, contrasting Euro 2’s high sulfur content with Euro 5’s lower impact profile, and called for coordinated implementation across agencies and suppliers. The decision will likely require fuel importers and distributors to adjust procurement and compliance timelines, while regulators refine enforcement mechanisms and ensure adequate supply to avoid market disruptions.
“Euro 2 fuel has high sulfur content with significant negative effects on people and the environment. Euro 5 products have relatively lower impacts. The Environment Ministry had decided to introduce Euro 5 fuel in Ulaanbaatar from the second half of 2026. We must implement this decision together.” - G. Damdinnjam, Minister of Industry and Minerals (isee.mn)
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Government Defers Principal Payments on Supported Working-Capital Loans for Crop Farmers by Up to Six Months
Published: 2026-01-28
The Cabinet approved Resolution No. 204 (2025) to defer, by up to six months, principal repayments on working-capital loans backed by government interest support for crop producers who lost harvests in 2025 due to force majeure events such as drought and hail. Eligible individual farmers and agribusinesses that took these supported loans in 2023–2025 must apply to the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry by February 3, 2026. Required documents include assessments from the provincial Emergency Management Agency, the provincial Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring Agency, and confirmation from the provincial Food and Agriculture Department verifying harvest loss. The measure aims to ease liquidity pressures on affected producers and stabilize the agricultural supply chain following climate-related shocks. No interest subsidy changes were announced; the deferral specifically targets principal payments.
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Ulaanbaatar Allocates Funds and Sets Up Agency for UN Desertification Summit at National Park
Published: 2026-01-28
Ulaanbaatar has detailed initial spending and governance for hosting the UN Convention to Combat Desertification’s COP17 from August 17–28 at the National Park. The city will procure an excavator and loader for ₮320 million and allocate ₮276.4 million for site works from the municipal budget. A new municipal entity, “COP17 Investment and Development Agency” (state-owned), has been established with ₮954.5 million in operating funds to launch and deliver temporary structures, roads, utilities, and site improvements on schedule. Overall COP17 costs are projected at ₮350 billion. The National Park’s revenue plan is set at ₮494.3 million, with ₮5.5 billion approved for its operating expenses. The summit is expected to draw around 10,000 delegates from more than 190 countries to address desertification, land degradation, drought, and pasture management.
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Innovation
Rights Body Probes “Hotula” App Over Sensitive Data and Incentive Features
Published: 2026-01-28
Mongolia’s National Human Rights Commission has launched a review of the “Hotula” app, used for purchasing solid fuel, over potential violations of the Personal Data Protection Law (2021). Commissioner and legal scholar G. Narantuya said the app may collect and process sensitive data without required notifications, recommendations, or impact assessments under Articles 9 and 23, and flagged new reward points for “good behavior” as high-risk. The app reportedly requires registration beyond the “DAN” eID, including “Khamuga ID,” and may seek employment, income, transit usage, and facial recognition data. Public concern has intensified online, with calls for clarity on legal compliance and data safeguards.
“The app’s expansion to reward ‘good behavior’ could pose a high human rights risk, and it appears required consultations and assessments were not conducted.” - Commissioner G. Narantuya (unuudur.mn)
“It even requires facial recognition, which seems prohibited to me.” - Citizen commenter (unuudur.mn)
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Hungary Offers Fully Funded Agriculture-Focused Master’s Scholarships for Mongolian Nationals
Published: 2026-01-28
Hungary’s Ministry of Agriculture, in partnership with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), opened applications for fully funded English-taught master’s programs for Mongolian citizens for the 2026–2027 academic year. Programs include Agricultural Biotechnology (Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Szent István Campus), Animal Nutrition and Feed Safety Engineering (MATE, Kaposvár Campus), and Plant Protection (University of Debrecen). The scholarship covers registration and tuition fees, essential textbooks, dormitory placement, living stipend, and health insurance; it does not fund dependents. Applicants should be Mongolian citizens/residents with strong academic records, at least intermediate English, good health, and motivation; being up to 30 years old is an advantage. Applications close February 28, 2026. Screening occurs in two stages: FAO preselection of complete files, followed by university-administered written and oral exams in English. Details: fao.org/europe/events/detail/fao-hungarian-government-scholarship-programme-2026-2027.
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U.S. Embassy Opens Applications for 2027–2028 Fulbright Student Scholarships in Mongolia
Published: 2026-01-28
The U.S. Embassy in Ulaanbaatar has opened applications for the 2027–2028 Fulbright Foreign Student Program, a fully funded master’s scholarship that annually supports about 4,000 international students from over 160 countries. In Mongolia, the program has operated since 1995 with U.S. government funding, later joined by Mongolian government support in 2010; since 2022, the two governments have run a unified selection process that enrolls up to 20 students per year. While all disciplines are eligible, priority aligns with the Mongolian government’s list of strategic and high-demand fields. Due to system differences, health studies are limited to Public Health and law to International Law (LLM). Applicants must be Mongolian citizens residing in Mongolia, hold a bachelor’s degree, have at least 1.5 years of full-time work experience, demonstrate English proficiency via approved tests, and not hold U.S. permanent residency. Preference favors those with little to no prior U.S. travel.
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Regional Teacher Colleges Rely on State Scholarships as Enrollments Lag and Finances Strain
Published: 2026-01-28
Mongolia’s regional teacher-training colleges report shrinking enrollments and financial stress despite a 2024 policy waiving tuition for accredited teacher programs. The Ministry of Education recorded 23,768 higher-ed graduates last year, down 13.7% y/y, and institutions say interest in early childhood and primary teaching remains weak. At the National University of Mongolia’s Western Branch in Khovd, leadership turnover and arrears once reached MNT 2.3 billion; the school says debts have now been cleared but utilities alone approach MNT 1 billion annually and state support for fixed costs has fallen short. Admissions rose modestly with the 100% scholarship for accredited teacher tracks and partial aid for regional study, yet key programs lack faculty and applicants, particularly in STEM.
“All teacher-education programs are accredited, so our students study tuition-free, which boosted enrollment; however, our fixed costs haven’t been fully covered for two years,” - Ts. Purevsuren, Director, NUM Western Branch (unuudur.mn)
“Without state scholarships, some local colleges might have closed; even now, our intake is barely half of capacity,” - S. Altantungalag, Program Officer, Mongolian National University of Education’s Arkhangai School (unuudur.mn)
“Several programs have been suspended due to no applicants, and trainee teacher pay starting at about MNT 1.3 million makes recruitment in the provinces difficult,” - N. Bayarmaa, Head of Training and Student Affairs, NUM Eastern Branch (unuudur.mn)
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Health
Health Union Alleges Incomplete Pay Rise Implementation, Warns of Strikes as Rural Clinics Cut Staff
Published: 2026-01-28
Mongolia’s Health Workers’ Trade Union says a government-brokered wage deal for medical staff is not being fully implemented, creating pay disparities and prompting layoffs in rural facilities. The 2023 tripartite agreement envisioned staged base-salary increases through 2026, reaching MNT 3.5 million by January 2027. The union claims authorities are calculating most allowances from pre-increase base salaries while only performance bonuses and overtime reflect the new base, undercutting expected gains and straining budgets at performance-financed hospitals. Reports from aimag and soum clinics indicate reductions of up to 9% in headcount, affecting drivers and cleaners—roles seen as essential for infection control. The union plans to compile nationwide payroll evidence and press the government to rescind the current order and pay all additional remuneration off the 30% increased base, threatening renewed strikes if unresolved.
“It is meaningless to lay off some people so others can take a higher salary.” - Ch. Narantuya, Chair, Health Workers’ Trade Union (ikon.mn)
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Published: 2026-01-28
A ChildFund-backed project is equipping select family clinics and kindergartens in Ulaanbaatar and two provinces to detect developmental delays in children aged 0–5. At BZD’s “Achlakhui” family clinic, new dedicated assessment rooms, accessibility upgrades, and staff training enable use of MORBAS, a rapid, internationally recognized screening tool applied at 9, 18, and 36 months. In 2023, 63% of eligible children were screened at the clinic; 13 showed delays and two were identified with autism spectrum disorder, prompting referrals. Integration with nearby Kindergarten No. 32 helps teachers flag concerns for medical follow-up. Staff report increased eyesight problems linked to screen exposure among preschoolers. The 2024–2027 initiative, funded by Japan’s MFA through ChildFund, aims to standardize early detection, provide equipment, and strengthen referrals across health, education, and social services.
“Within the project, our team was trained to assess development using the MORBAS rapid tool and to determine when referrals are needed.” - Dr. A. Bujinlkham, pediatric physician at “Achlakhui” Family Clinic (news.mn)
“After the training, kindergarten teachers now approach us saying, ‘We have a child who may need screening and diagnosis.’” - B. Batchimeg, social worker at “Achlakhui” Family Clinic (news.mn)
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Arts
Ulaanbaatar City Museum Seeks New Purpose-Built Facility as Aging Building Risks Artifact Preservation
Published: 2026-01-28
Ulaanbaatar City Museum’s 1919-built premises have exceeded their lifespan, raising risks to proper preservation conditions for its 3,500-item collection. The institution, operating as a museum since 1956, currently functions in about 240 sq m, displaying only around 120 objects due to space constraints. Director P. Davaasüren said city leadership plans a purpose-built facility and will restore the historic building without demolition, following recent interior upgrades. Planned works include facade and roof renewal and site improvements, with a longer-term aim to elevate the museum to a national-level complex. The museum is tasked with safeguarding and promoting the capital’s tangible heritage and tourism value. For 2024, it targets MNT 4.2 billion in revenue with MNT 876.7 million in expenditures, signaling increased institutional activity alongside infrastructure investment.
“We are grateful that the Mayor is prioritizing a new purpose-built venue for the museum and has decided to restore the historic building without demolishing it.” - P. Davaasüren, Director of Ulaanbaatar City Museum (ikon.mn)
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