Politics
Opposition Says Teacher and Health Pay Rises Fall Short, Seeks Education Minister’s Ouster
Published: 2026-02-05
Mongolia’s Democratic Party (DP) lawmakers accused the government of overstating 2026 public-sector pay hikes, claiming teachers saw only marginal gains and some experienced cuts after allowances were folded into base pay. They said Parliament allocated MNT 518.5 billion to raise teacher salaries by 50% during 2026 and MNT 190 billion for a 15% increase for health workers, yet implementation has lagged, with certain hospitals citing overstaffing to withhold raises. The DP also argued that MNT 542.5 billion earmarked for pension increases could have lifted the minimum full pension to MNT 1 million if properly allocated. The party formally urged the dismissal of Education Minister P. Naranbayar, alleging policy missteps and budget execution failures.
“In reality, teachers’ take-home pay rose by only MNT 177,000, and some veteran teachers even saw reductions.” - MP G. Ganbaatar (ikon.mn)
“We have submitted a request to dismiss Minister P. Naranbayar; his decisions have pushed the sector into crisis.” - MP Ts. Munkhtuya (news.mn)
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Lawmakers Draft Bill to Cut Personal Income Tax to 1% and Lift Take-Home Pay by 9%
Published: 2026-02-05
A group of MPs led by J. Bayarmaa, O. Amgalanbaatar, G. Ochirbat, and B. Punsalmaa is preparing a bill to reduce Mongolia’s personal income tax (PIT) to 1%, proposing an effective 9% increase in net wages. The initiative emerges alongside a government tax package submitted to Parliament that does not lower PIT rates, currently 10–20%. The MPs plan to table their bill during the spring session, though it may be bundled with the government package. The proposal follows a citizen petition launched in April 2025 by economist R. Shinegerel that reportedly garnered 100,000 supporters and prompted parliamentary consideration. Economists cited by the outlet estimate a 2.5 trillion MNT budget impact, arguing it can be offset within a 33.5 trillion MNT budget. The measure targets middle-income households facing the heaviest tax burden and could reshape wage dynamics if adopted from January 1, 2027.
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Unions Petition Constitutional Court to Review Pay-Rise Decisions by Education and Health Ministers
Published: 2026-02-05
Leaders of Mongolia’s national, education, and health sector trade unions submitted a petition to the Constitutional Court seeking review of several government and ministerial acts tied to recent public-sector pay adjustments. The filing challenges Government Resolutions No. 238 (2024) and Nos. 224, 225 (2025), along with Education Minister orders A/613, A/20 and Health Minister order A/11, arguing they may violate constitutional provisions. The unions claim the cabinet unlawfully delegated exceptional powers to sector ministers, disrupted the hierarchy of legal norms, set unequal pay for identical roles, and issued administrative acts lacking clarity and stability. They also argue workers’ rights to labor and remuneration were unjustifiably restricted, and that the measures jeopardize sector financing and budget-labor relations. The unions say Constitutional Court oversight is needed to ensure administrative decisions align with the Constitution and protect fundamental wage guarantees.
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Anti-Corruption Hotline Changes to 11-10; Legacy 110 Runs in Parallel Until March 1, 2026
Published: 2026-02-05
Mongolia’s Independent Authority Against Corruption has updated its public reporting hotline, moving from 110 to 11-10. The current 110 number will continue to operate in parallel until March 1, 2026, after which it will be deactivated and 11-10 will function as the standard hotline. The shift aligns with efforts to streamline public service numbers and standardize dialing formats. For businesses and individuals, the transition period allows time to update internal compliance materials, staff training, and public-facing communications that reference the anti-corruption reporting contact. After March 2026, callers should use 11-10 for reporting suspected bribery or corruption. No other procedural changes were announced alongside the number update.
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Power Boundaries Blurred as Speaker, Prime Minister and President Step Beyond Mandates
Published: 2026-02-05
A commentary in Unuudur argues Mongolia’s top offices are encroaching on each other’s constitutional roles, creating procedural confusion. Speaker N. Uchral has toured regions with ministers to promote his “Let’s Liberalize” initiative and reportedly pressured the independent central bank to streamline staffing, despite lacking authority to direct such bodies. The article also notes he referenced measures to be presented at Cabinet meetings, suggesting executive decision-making. Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar drew criticism for signing the U.S.-initiated “Peace Council” agreement in Davos, a step opponents say requires presidential lead and parliamentary scrutiny. President U. Khurelsukh is portrayed as focused on sectoral campaigns like “Food Revolution.” Opposition figures warn the concentration and overlap of power stems from one-party dominance and political calculations ahead of the 2027 presidential race.
“The Speaker is roaming around telling this hospital and that central bank to improve their work. He is violating the law as written, and has practically met the conditions to resign.” - MP L. Gantomor (orug.mn)
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Economy
Hungary’s OTP Bank Explores Market Entry, Tying Decision to Reforms in Banking Law
Published: 2026-02-05
Hungary’s OTP Bank signaled interest in launching operations subject to amendments to Mongolia’s Banking Law that clarify the investment environment and adjust limits on single-shareholder ownership, broad provisions, and policy risk rules. The bank—Central and Eastern Europe’s major listed lender with presence in 11 countries—outlined its strategy and capacity, citing $115.2 billion in equity and a $60 billion loan book as of Q3 last year. Parliamentary Speaker N. Uchral framed the initiative within a broader push to curb state intervention and expand private-sector space, adding that spring session debates will consider banking law revisions to refine the legal framework.
“Our parliamentary reforms prioritize limiting excessive state intervention and expanding the private sector to ensure stable growth.” - N. Uchral, Speaker of Parliament (montsame.mn)
“If the Banking Law reflects certain changes on shareholder limits and policy risk provisions, strategic investment would be fully feasible.” - Representatives of OTP Bank (montsame.mn)
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Mortgage Rules Clarified: Central Bank Limits One Loan Per Person; Commercial Banks’ In-House Funds Allow Multiple Loans
Published: 2026-02-05
Mongolia’s mortgage program faces scrutiny after claims that 12,000 people acquired five or more apartments through subsidized loans. The Bank of Mongolia’s 2016 rules restrict mortgages from its funding source to one per person and prohibit refinancing, but commercial banks can issue additional mortgages from their own funds without a specific cap and later securitize them via the Mongolian Mortgage Corporation (MIK). This dual-track system explains how some borrowers may hold multiple mortgages despite official limits on central bank–funded loans. Officials stress the central bank allocates funding ceilings but does not decide who gets loans, while banks say they follow regulations. Key program metrics remain strong: MNT 10.1 trillion has financed 139,000 households, with 95.1% of loans performing. Demand persists, with a reported MNT 4.9 trillion in pending applications by September 2025.
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Meat Prices Edge Higher in Ulaanbaatar as City Expands Discounted Reserve Sales
Published: 2026-02-05
Ulaanbaatar’s average prices for key food items rose 2.1% month-on-month and 0.2% week-on-week as of February 2, driven primarily by meat, according to the National Statistics Office. Lamb, beef, and horse meat increased 3–4% from the prior month, reflecting tighter winter supply and higher logistics costs. Dairy prices were mixed: loose milk fell while some packaged milk rose; yogurt and butter were stable. Staples such as flour, bread, and rice were largely unchanged, and fuel prices held steady, limiting immediate transport-cost pressures. In parallel, the city is running expanded sales of reserve meat through February 15 at seven sites, offering mutton carcasses at MNT 13,000/kg and retail beef at MNT 15,000/kg across 385 points. Only whole mutton carcasses are available at the expanded sites, while beef remains retail cuts. Authorities report reserves of over 2,000 tons of beef and 3,000 tons of mutton for spring demand.
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Economic Council Reviews Sovereign Wealth Fund Use and State Stakes in Strategic Deposits
Published: 2026-02-05
The Prime Minister’s Economic Development Council met on February 4 to evaluate Mongolia’s sovereign wealth fund trajectory and revenue-sharing from strategic and derivative mineral deposits. Officials reported MNT 6.7 trillion accumulated across sub-funds by end-2025, with a target of MNT 9.6 trillion by end-2026; law currently prohibits withdrawals until 2030. Members debated whether the no-spend rule aligns with pressing needs in health, education, and mortgage finance, and discussed models for the state’s participation in strategic deposits—via equity or tax—based on which delivers more stable, long-term public returns. The government highlighted macro gains, including 6.4% GDP growth and FX reserves exceeding USD 7 billion, and said business-environment bills are before parliament, including packages on economic freedom, support for entrepreneurs, and tax reform.
“When exploration and reserves were established with budget funds, it is only right that the state hold a stake and channel the majority of benefits to the people.” - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (gogo.mn)
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Erdenes Tavantolgoi Sells 160,000 Tons of Coal for $9.1 Million via Mongolian Stock Exchange
Published: 2026-02-05
Erdenes Tavantolgoi JSC completed two successful trades on the Mongolian Stock Exchange, selling 160,000 tons of coal for a total of $9.1 million on a delivered-to-China-port basis. The lots comprised 128,000 tons of high-volatile bituminous coal at $56.2/ton ($7.2 million) and 32,000 tons of 1/3 coking coal at $62.2/ton ($1.9 million). Four participants joined the auction, lifting prices by $7.5 per ton, or 13.7%, indicating firmer demand and competitive bidding on the exchange platform. Cumulatively in 2026, the company reports selling 1.3 million tons across 17 trades, totaling $109.2 million. These results highlight the growing role of exchange-based sales in price discovery for Mongolian coal and suggest continued traction for delivered-to-port contracts into China, a key export route for the sector.
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Copper Prices Hold Record Highs into 2026 as Supply Strains Meet Tech-Driven Demand
Published: 2026-02-05
Global precious metals are elevated, but copper is emerging as the most stable long‑term performer. Analysts link the late‑2025 to early‑2026 copper price surge to U.S. stockpiling, tariff policy shifts, and China’s pre–Lunar New Year restocking, alongside sustained structural demand from electrification, AI-driven data centers, and EV/hybrid production. China’s steady 2025 growth and green-transition policies have supported copper consumption, while supply risks intensified after major incidents in Chile, including reduced output at Escondida. On January 29, 2026, the London Metal Exchange price hit a record around $14,500/ton, far above Mongolia’s 2026 budget assumption of $9,700. For Mongolia, higher copper prices offset weaker coal revenues: coal export value fell by $2.9 billion while copper concentrate export value rose by $2.5 billion in 2025. Banks foresee prices stabilizing through 2026, with potential year‑end easing toward $11,000–$12,000/ton.
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Surety Insurance Eases Collateral Burden and Broadens Access to Public Contracts
Published: 2026-02-05
Mongolia’s surety insurance market has moved from pilot to practical use since 2024, reshaping how companies back public procurement and infrastructure contracts. In the past year, 1,298 enterprises secured guarantees for works and services totaling about MNT 7 billion in budgeted value, with insurers issuing MNT 611 billion in guarantees. Products now span bid, performance, advance payment, and quality guarantees—extending coverage beyond tender entry to project execution and completion. This shift reduces reliance on bank guarantees, easing collateral constraints and freeing working capital, while dispersing credit risk away from the banking system. To standardize growth, 16 insurers formed a Joint Council to develop common standards, strengthen risk assessment and oversight, align with state bodies, and localize international surety practices. Officials expect tighter contractor discipline, fewer delays, and lower fiscal losses, with expansion potential in mining, energy, transport, infrastructure, PPPs, and donor-funded projects.
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Mandal Insurance Plans Record MNT 8.74 Billion Dividend for 2025 Earnings
Published: 2026-02-05
Mandal Insurance, listed on the Mongolian Stock Exchange’s Tier I, announced a dividend of MNT 14 per share, totaling MNT 8.74 billion from its 2025 net profit—its largest payout since IPO. The proposed distribution is roughly 80% higher than the MNT 5 billion dividend allocated from 2024 operations, signaling stronger profitability late in 2025, according to analysts cited by local media. The company has not disclosed its payout ratio. Mandal’s securities turnover reached MNT 8.3 billion in 2025, placing it among the MSE’s top three by trading performance. For investors, the move underscores improving insurance sector earnings and deepening market liquidity, with the heightened cash return potentially supporting share price performance and drawing further institutional interest.
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Low-Interest SME Loans Expand Manufacturing Capacity in Umnugovi
Published: 2026-02-05
Umnugovi Province is scaling up its SME support program, offering locally funded loans of up to five years at 3% annual interest, with a 12‑month principal grace period. In 2025, MNT 5 billion was extended to small and medium enterprises, reflecting the province’s push to diversify its economy beyond mining. One beneficiary, Dalanzadgad-based Khasudbat LLC, grew from a three-person leather workshop in 2014 to 80 employees and became a stable supplier to Oyu Tolgoi. The firm recently upgraded capacity through the “White Gold” program, adding automated equipment to produce international-standard leather gloves, back supports, welding apparel, knee pads, footwear, and accessories, broadening market reach and improving worker productivity.
“Access to low-interest SME loans helped us expand and improve our business environment. With new equipment, work is easier and wages can rise, enabling stable operations that positively impact the local economy.” - B. Ganbat, CEO of Khasudbat LLC (montsame.mn)
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Diplomacy
Parliament Speaker Courts Japan and South Korea to Deepen Ties, Advance Investment Climate and Heating Plant Project
Published: 2026-02-05
Parliament Speaker N. Uchral held separate meetings with Japan’s Ambassador M. Igawahara and South Korea’s Ambassador Choi Jin-won, signaling a push to strengthen strategic partnerships, attract investment, and accelerate infrastructure cooperation. Uchral underscored a 2026–2030 program prioritizing investor protection, legal reforms, and bank sector modernization, framed within his “Let’s Deregulate” initiative to ease business burdens and cut permits. Japan reiterated support for deepening the “Special Strategic Partnership,” with a focus on parliamentary ties and technology cooperation. South Korea and Mongolia discussed expanding collaboration in finance, IT, AI, and critical minerals, and explored moving forward the project to build heating plants in 10 provincial centers—part of concessional loan and grant programs. The Speaker also sought Korean expertise and participation for Mongolia’s hosting of the UNCCD COP17 in 2026.
“We will prioritize protecting investors’ interests and improving the investment environment under the 2026–2030 program.” - N. Uchral, Speaker of Parliament (montsame.mn)
“We will work together to further strengthen our Special Strategic Partnership for peace and prosperity.” - M. Igawahara, Ambassador of Japan (gogo.mn)
“High-level exchanges have been institutionalized, and we hope to expand cooperation in finance, IT, AI, and rare metals.” - Choi Jin-won, Ambassador of South Korea (unuudur.mn)
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UK Parliament Re-establishes Cross-Party Mongolia Group as Mongolian Speaker Courts Deeper Financial and Parliamentary Ties
Published: 2026-02-05
The UK Parliament has reconstituted its All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Mongolia, chaired by MP James Wild, with over 20 members and senior peers and officials attending its 2 February launch. The APPG aims to advance UK-Mongolia engagement across critical minerals, renewables, environment, women’s participation, and security, offering a platform to brief UK policymakers and support cooperation. In Ulaanbaatar, Speaker of Parliament N. Uchral received UK Ambassador Fiona Blyth, underscoring shared values and expanding sectoral ties, and inviting British women MPs to a 2026 international women parliamentarians’ forum in Ulaanbaatar. Uchral promoted the “Let’s Liberalize” reform to streamline regulation and open banking to international entrants, signaling interest in British financial institutions. Ambassador Blyth welcomed stronger trade and investment links and pointed to collaboration with UK trade and City of London entities.
“We hope British banks will take interest in our market as we create real conditions for major international banks to enter Mongolia.” - N. Uchral, Speaker of Parliament (isee.mn)
“We are confident UK banks and financial service providers will be interested in Mongolia’s market, and we can work with the UK’s trade and investment agency and the City of London on this.” - Fiona Blyth, UK Ambassador to Mongolia (isee.mn)
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Korea Funds $5.6M Project to Modernize Mongolia’s Customs Risk Management and Air Passenger Baggage Controls
Published: 2026-02-05
Mongolia’s General Customs Administration launched a KOICA-backed project to upgrade risk management and air passenger accompanied baggage controls, funded by a $5.6 million grant from the Government of the Republic of Korea. Running 2025–2028, the program will modernize risk and database systems, introduce AI, machine learning, and big-data–based decision tools, supply inspection equipment, and deliver staff training. Implementers say the overhaul should raise screening efficiency at airports, curb smuggling, and strengthen revenue collection, while supporting trade facilitation and institutional reform. The initiative underscores expanding Mongolia–Korea economic cooperation and is expected to contribute to customs-led digital transformation. Senior attendees at the launch included Korea’s Ambassador Choi Jin Won, KOICA’s Mongolia Country Director Joo Hyein Nan, Mongolia’s Vice Minister of Finance B. Khulan, and Customs Chief P. Delgernaran. No detailed procurement timelines or specific equipment lists were disclosed.
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Infrastructure
Ulaanbaatar Water Supply Expansion Project to Conclude on March 31 After Five-Year MCC Program
Published: 2026-02-05
Ulaanbaatar’s city government and the U.S. Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) confirmed that the “Ulaanbaatar Water Supply Expansion Project” will conclude on March 31, completing a five‑year, $350 million grant program under Mongolia’s second MCC Compact (2021–2026). The program comprises three integrated components: a new western wellfield to boost potable water supply, wastewater recycling, and sector sustainability measures. City officials say the initiatives aim to support urban growth, improve public health, and reduce discharges of treated wastewater into the Tuul River—key priorities as the capital faces rapid population growth and aquifer stress. During a coordination meeting with MCC representatives, the mayor underscored the project’s broader urban development impact and expressed gratitude for U.S. support.
“This project is crucial for developing urban areas in Mongolia, improving public health, and reducing gray water entering the Tuul River.” - Ulaanbaatar Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar (gogo.mn)
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World Bank, Government Advance PPP Pipeline in Energy and Urban Infrastructure
Published: 2026-02-05
Mongolia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Development J. Enkhbayar met World Bank Country Manager Taehyun Lee to align on mid- and long‑term priorities, focusing on reforms and large projects in energy, transport, and urban infrastructure. The sides agreed to fast‑track technical coordination on specific projects, building on ongoing World Bank‑backed transmission investments that aim to bolster power reliability. Enkhbayar emphasized mobilizing private capital through public–private partnerships and risk‑sharing mechanisms, including guarantees, to support sector liberalization and investor confidence.
“To successfully liberalize sectors, it is crucial to attract private investment and strengthen investor confidence, using innovative tools such as World Bank guarantees to share risk.” - Deputy Prime Minister J. Enkhbayar (isee.mn)
Lee said the Bank’s cooperation spans energy, agriculture, IT, and investment climate reforms, and welcomed the ministry’s Investor Protection Center. He signaled readiness to support the 2026–2030 Five‑Year Development Plan, prioritizing rising power demand as industrialization accelerates.
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Ulaanbaatar Plans 20,218 Land Parcels Cleared in 2026 for Ring Road, Transit and Utility Projects
Published: 2026-02-05
Ulaanbaatar will clear land on 20,218 parcels across 4,729 hectares in 2026, allocating MNT 200 billion in compensation from the city budget, according to the Capital City Governor’s Office. New clearances span 41 locations, with 3,029 parcels tied to the First Ring Road. Other works include tram infrastructure, roads, tunnels, bridges, district heating pipelines, substations, flood protection and engineering networks. Ongoing projects across 24 sites continue into 2026, with 675 parcels scheduled this year after 655 were cleared in 2025. Priority areas include Chingeltei’s 14th khoroo, Sukhbaatar’s Dambadarjaa and Gandan, Songinokhairkhan’s 4th, 5th and 8th khoroos, Bayanzurkh’s Tsaiz-16, and near Khan-Uul’s School No. 34. Mega projects require clearances for the metro (90 parcels), Tuul expressway (112), and Thermal Power Plant No. 5 (six remaining of 26). District center upgrades target Bayankhoshuu, Dambadarjaa, and Sharkhad, alongside social infrastructure such as the Gandan model street and the Tуул-1 sewer collector.
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Heavy-Haul Road from Tavantolgoi to Gashuunsukhait Ordered Open by September Under Existing Concession
Published: 2026-02-05
The Mongolian government directed officials to accelerate construction of the 250 km heavy-haul paved road between Tavantolgoi and Gashuunsukhait and bring it into service by September without altering the concession term. The project, held by “Steppe Development Road” LLC under a March 2019 concession signed pursuant to Government Resolution No. 229 (2018), faces termination if deadlines are missed. The corridor is pivotal for coal exports to China via the Gashuunsukhait/Ganqimaodu crossing, where road bottlenecks have historically constrained throughput and inflated logistics costs. Enforcing the existing schedule signals a push to de-risk export infrastructure ahead of winter demand and potential price volatility. If completed on time, the dedicated heavy-haul route should reduce trucking times, lower transport costs, and improve safety, while delays could prompt the state to reassign the concession to maintain continuity of strategic export flows.
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Ulaanbaatar Advances 12.9 km Bus Rapid Transit Line with ADB Compliance Measures
Published: 2026-02-05
Ulaanbaatar’s dedicated Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project is progressing through preparation stages, aiming to improve speed, reliability, and access between the city center and outer districts. The planned 12.9 km corridor will run along Ard Ayush Avenue–Ikh Toiruu–Nam yanju Street–Niislel Khüree Avenue with 19 stations. Authorities are preparing tenders for detailed design, construction supervision, and operations planning consultancies. Land acquisition and resettlement will proceed under Asian Development Bank (ADB) procedures after detailed designs are approved. ADB has emphasized implementing a Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan (LARP) and establishing a grievance redress mechanism covering social protection and gender aspects. The mechanism will become operational once the project’s loan, project agreement, and subsidiary lending agreements take full effect, signaling movement toward execution and stakeholder engagement requirements.
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Expansion Planning Advances for “Chinggis Khaan” International Airport, Construction Targeted for 2028-2034
Published: 2026-02-05
Transport Minister B. Delgersaikhan met Oriental Consultants Global (OCG) executives in Tokyo to accelerate planning for expanding “Chinggis Khaan” International Airport. OCG, which prepared the original airport’s feasibility study and design, is developing the new expansion’s design and feasibility with JICA. Project manager Koichi Takahashi said the study will be finalized next month and presented to the minister. The minister stressed completing the project within the agreed Japan–Mongolia loan envelope and on a faster timetable, asking planners to model for 2039 demand to justify earlier start. The team currently proposes starting construction in 2028 and finishing in 2034. OCG President Eiji Yonezawa urged swift loan agreement and site preparation, including removing the existing cargo terminal to clear land.
“We need to build the expansion within the loan agreed by the two governments and deliver the project faster than planned.” - B. Delgersaikhan, Minister of Road and Transport Development (gogo.mn)
“To start earlier, we should expedite the loan contract and resolve land clearance, including dismantling the current cargo terminal.” - Eiji Yonezawa, President of Oriental Consultants Global (gogo.mn)
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Waste-to-Energy Plant at Morin Davaa Stalled in Court After Tender Dispute
Published: 2026-02-05
Ulaanbaatar’s planned 34 MW waste-to-energy thermal plant at Morin Davaa remains suspended due to a court case stemming from a disputed tender, according to Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar. The project, designed to generate power by incinerating municipal waste, drew three bids, with China’s Sichuan Energy Investment, Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Investment LLC selected. After Naannovo Green Energy Mongolia LLC challenged the process in court, the Chinese investor withdrew, freezing progress. Naannovo’s founder Ts. Erdenbileg argues his firm had advanced approvals and a power purchase agreement with the National Dispatching Center, but was later excluded over tender formatting issues during a city-led PPP process change.
“We obtained the energy license in 2022, secured a tariff, and signed a power purchase agreement in 2024. Despite this, we were removed from the selection for not fitting the city’s format.” - Ts. Erdenbileg, founder of Naannovo Green Energy Mongolia LLC (isee.mn)
The impasse complicates Ulaanbaatar’s waste management and power diversification plans as the government advances a separate 300 MW Fifth Power Plant targeted for May 2028.
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New Airport Concession Addendum to Expand Parking and Build Office Space
Published: 2026-02-05
The government’s 2019 concession agreement for the New Ulaanbaatar International Airport will be amended to allow construction of a new office building and expansion of the airport’s parking capacity. The “invest-operate-transfer” contract, signed on July 5, 2019 between the National Development Agency and New Ulaanbaatar International Airport LLC, will be updated as airline numbers grow and on-site office needs increase. Passenger greeters and send-off traffic have also outpaced existing parking, prompting plans to add roughly 250 spaces by extending lots to the west and east within the concession area. The changes signal continued traffic growth at Khöshig Valley’s international gateway and aim to relieve congestion while accommodating more aviation stakeholders. No timeline or budget details were disclosed, and regulatory approvals for the addendum were not specified.
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Ulaanbaatar Cable Car Line 1 Reaches 60% Completion as City Seeks Financing for Second Line
Published: 2026-02-05
Ulaanbaatar’s mayor Kh. Nyambaatar met with IFC Resident Representative Mathieu Le Blan to discuss financing for the city’s second urban cable car corridor. Line 1—connecting Yarmag with Artsat-Önör residential areas—is more than 60% complete. The planned Line 2 would span 2.7 km between the National Garden Park and the National Amusement Park with three stations. City officials emphasized adherence to international safety, technical, environmental, and social standards. Authorities frame the cable car network as a strategic addition to public transport that links ger districts to the city center, eases peak-load pressure on buses and roads, shortens commute times, and cuts air pollution. If IFC support advances, the project could strengthen blended financing options and accelerate deployment of Line 2, which is intended to complement bus and road upgrades in high-demand corridors.
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Society
Thai Police Detain Three Mongolian Nationals Over Meth Shipment Hidden in Electronics
Published: 2026-02-05
Bangkok police arrested three Mongolian citizens suspected of attempting to ship crystal methamphetamine to Mongolia by concealing it inside electronic components. Thai anti-narcotics officers first intercepted a suspicious parcel on January 9 at a logistics office on New Phetchaburi Road and discovered about 150 grams of meth hidden in a modified capacitor. Investigators traced the sender to a 46-year-old Mongolian man who allegedly used other people’s passports and frequently changed locations to avoid detection. On February 2, officers detained him with two other Mongolian nationals at a Sukhumvit 36 hotel. A room search uncovered an additional 244 grams of meth and electronic parts believed to be used for smuggling. All three have been arrested and face charges under Thailand’s Narcotics Act, which carries up to five years’ imprisonment and fines up to THB 1.5 million.
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Prosecutors report rise in drug and corruption cases as money laundering declines
Published: 2026-02-05
Mongolia’s Prosecutor General’s Office reports diverging crime trends in 2025: drug-related cases increased sharply while money laundering decreased modestly and corruption cases edged up. Prosecutors oversaw 551 narcotics and psychotropic substance cases, up 21.6% year-on-year; 223 cases involving 209 suspects were sent to court. Of the 417 individuals charged in drug investigations, 78.7% were aged 18–35 and 62.8% were unemployed; 82.2% were male. Over the past eight years, 2,246 suspects have faced investigation in such cases, with authorities estimating 20,000–25,000 potential hidden users nationwide. Corruption oversight reached 1,811 cases (+4%), with 299 cases sent to court, while 11.8 billion MNT in assets and transactions were frozen. Money laundering cases fell 4.7% to 280, though authorities restricted 14.1 billion MNT and sealed 2.1 billion MNT in assets.
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Police Log 1,919 Calls; 86 Domestic Violence Reports and 116 Detentions in 24 Hours
Published: 2026-02-05
Mongolia’s national police recorded 1,919 calls to the 102 hotline on February 4, including 713 administrative violations and 101 suspected crimes, according to a police update reported by isee.mn. Officers promptly solved one incident classified as a crime and cleared 209 previously registered cases. Domestic safety remains a concern: 86 calls related to child and family domestic violence were logged during the same 24-hour period. Authorities also detained 116 individuals for sobering-up, reflecting routine weekend enforcement patterns in Ulaanbaatar and other urban areas. The figures underscore continued pressure on emergency response services and the justice system, with domestic violence persistently contributing to call volumes. For businesses operating locally, the data signals ongoing public safety and social service challenges that can affect workforce wellbeing, community relations, and late-night operations.
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Pedestrian Right-of-Way Lapses Blamed for Spike in Child Road Accidents in Ulaanbaatar
Published: 2026-02-05
Two eighth-grade students were struck by a vehicle while crossing at a marked pedestrian crossing near Chuluun Ovoo in Bayanzürkh District on February 3, highlighting persistent noncompliance with right-of-way rules. Police say the incident is under investigation. January saw 446 offenses under traffic safety and vehicle operation rules, while 2023 recorded 1,230 traffic incidents involving children, with 67 fatalities and 991 injuries—underscoring systemic risks for young pedestrians. Mongolia’s traffic code requires drivers approaching unsignalized crossings to slow and yield to pedestrians, but enforcement and driver behavior remain weak. Authorities note that roughly 600 of the 948 children injured in traffic incidents last year were in the capital, where pedestrian movement is dense. Penalties for failing to yield include a fine of 20 units, and officials urge heightened driver responsibility to reduce accidents.
“There is no difference between signalized and unsignalized crossings; drivers must slow and yield to pedestrians. Last year, 948 children were involved in traffic accidents, about 600 in the capital.” - Lt. Col. G. Otgontamir, Senior Officer, Traffic Police Preventive Division (isee.mn)
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Published: 2026-02-05
Mongolia’s Ministry of Labor and Social Protection will implement a grant-funded project with the Asian Development Bank to advance green and digital economy participation among women entrepreneurs. As part of the initiative, one province will be selected to host a new Community Business Development Center built in a dedicated facility. Preparatory steps included an online meeting between ministry and ADB representatives to review environmental and social safeguards and assess architectural plans for the center. Discussions also covered finalizing project scope and budget, operational and staffing structures, ownership and sustainability arrangements, and office and activity costs for the project implementation unit. The project aims to strengthen local business ecosystems by providing tailored support to women-led enterprises, aligning with national priorities on inclusive growth and sustainable economic modernization.
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Environment
Severe Cold Snap Grips Capital as Snow and Blowing Snow Hit Western and Gobi Regions
Published: 2026-02-05
Mongolia’s weather agency warns of intensified cold nationwide on February 5, with snow and blowing snow across parts of Bayan-Ölgii, Khovd, Govi-Altai, southern Bayankhongor, and western Ömnögovi. Winds will strengthen to 13–15 m/s in Altai mountains, Gobi and steppe areas, potentially disrupting transport. Western and northern basins face extreme lows of -25 to -30°C, while many valleys and eastern steppe areas range from -19 to -24°C; the southwestern Gobi remains comparatively milder at -8 to -13°C. Ulaanbaatar stays dry with light west-northwesterlies and daytime temperatures falling to -19 to -21°C—around 4°C colder than the previous day—after overnight lows of -28 to -35°C depending on district. The outlook signals heightened risks for road conditions, herding operations, and energy demand, particularly during peak heating hours in the capital.
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Rapid Glacier Melt Threatens Water Security and Core Industries, UN Body Warns
Published: 2026-02-05
A new alert from the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) links Mongolia’s economic resilience to accelerating glacier loss rather than coal export trends. Drawing on World Bank findings, the report notes national average surface temperatures have risen 2.3°C above pre‑industrial levels—about 1.3°C higher than the global mean—driving pronounced retreat of mountain glaciers that supply roughly 70% of the country’s freshwater. Northern and western provinces are projected to experience sharper warming, while aquifers on the high plateau are declining by about 3 mm annually. Without strong emissions cuts and a transition away from coal, warming in Mongolia could reach 8% by 2100, the analysis warns. Shrinking water reserves would directly undermine mining, irrigated agriculture, and intensive livestock operations, and could disrupt hydropower reliability, underscoring the urgency of water and climate risk management across sectors.
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Independent Institute Launches to Guide Data-Driven Conservation in the Gobi
Published: 2026-02-05
Mongolia opened the Gobi Biodiversity Institute on February 5 as a standalone, non-profit science center focused on long-term monitoring and policy support for the country’s southern arid ecosystems. The ministry emphasized that over 76% of Mongolia’s land shows some form of degradation and the national average temperature has risen 2.3°C over 70 years, underscoring a pivot to evidence-based decision-making. The institute will assess wildlife populations, ecosystem resilience, land use, and mining impacts, and deliver data-driven recommendations to policymakers. Its launch coincides with Mongolia hosting the UNCCD COP17 this year, positioning the Gobi as a regional hub for tackling desertification and climate adaptation across Central Asia. Planned as a collaboration nexus for national and international research institutions, government, private sector, and global partners, the institute aims to elevate science-backed conservation and inform development planning.
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Innovation
Environmental Audit Licenses Move to 10‑Minute Online Issuance
Published: 2026-02-05
The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has fully digitized the issuance and renewal of environmental audit licenses via license.mn, enabling compliant companies to obtain approvals in about 10 minutes. Previously, approvals required multiple signatures and stamps, taking two weeks to a month due to paperwork and sequential authorizations. The ministry plans to transition other permits it issues to digital workflows in stages. Under Mongolian law, enterprises that exploit natural resources must undergo an environmental audit every two years, making faster licensing relevant for mining, energy, and industrial operators. The shift is expected to reduce administrative friction, improve compliance timelines, and increase transparency by standardizing document submission and review. Businesses should prepare required materials in advance to leverage the rapid turnaround and monitor forthcoming digitization of additional environmental permits.
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First-Grade Curriculum Cut to Six Subjects Next School Year to Ease Workload
Published: 2026-02-05
Starting next autumn, the Ministry of Education will reduce the number of first-grade subjects from 11 to six to lighten academic pressure on young learners. Deputy Minister of Education D. Gantulga said the shift aligns instruction with age-appropriate development and prioritizes play-based, creative learning over early academic intensity. Core creative and physical subjects such as visual arts, music, and physical education will remain, with content simplified. Two additional subjects will be phased in during the middle of the school year to gradually build foundational skills. Education researchers note that children aged 6–7 learn most effectively through movement, play, and creative activities, a model consistent with international play-based learning trends.
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Cabinet Approves Standards to Tighten Transparency and Oversight of Government Websites
Published: 2026-02-05
The Cabinet approved two procedures to enforce the Law on Public Information Transparency, setting unified standards for government websites and strengthening oversight of disclosures. Agencies must maintain compliant pages on the gov.mn platform, publish mandated open data, and align postings with the shilen.gov.mn system. A “Glass Index” will evaluate the transparency of agencies, providing a comparative benchmark and a mechanism to monitor adherence. The move addresses inconsistent and incomplete publication of information by state bodies since the rollout of the centralized gov.mn portal. By introducing standardized content requirements, security protocols, and monitoring mechanisms, officials aim to improve public scrutiny of government operations and ensure reliable, accessible information for stakeholders, including businesses assessing regulatory environments and contractors tracking procurement and compliance updates across ministries and agencies.
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Customs Links with Chamber to Launch Digital Certificates of Origin
Published: 2026-02-05
The Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry has integrated its new electronic certificates of origin with the Customs General Administration’s (CGA) e-system, enabling real-time data exchange. Certificates will carry a 16-digit security code and QR code for verification, aiming to reduce customs clearance time and costs, eliminate document duplication, and limit manual handling. The rollout is positioned to support national manufacturing—especially micro, small, and medium enterprises—by easing export procedures and improving competitiveness. Authorities indicate the platform could later exchange certificates directly with foreign customs, aligning with World Customs Organization practices. For exporters, the digitization should streamline compliance and mitigate risks of paperwork errors or fraud, while offering faster turnaround at the border and a clearer audit trail for trade partners.
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Health
Practical Insurance Donates Idylla Molecular Diagnostics System to National Cancer Center
Published: 2026-02-05
Practical Insurance LLC has donated an Idylla™ molecular diagnostics device, manufactured by Belgium’s Biocartis NV, to Mongolia’s National Cancer Center. The platform enables rapid, high-precision detection of cancer-related gene mutations, supporting faster diagnosis and treatment decisions. It can be applied to common cancers in Mongolia, including non-small cell lung, colorectal, and thyroid cancers. The donation comes as cancer remains a major health burden: in 2025, the country recorded 8,015 new cases and 4,747 deaths. The company also announced 2026 as its “Year Against Cancer,” pledging year-long public initiatives on prevention, early detection, and health education. The contribution is expected to expand access to advanced molecular testing within Mongolia’s public oncology system, potentially shortening time-to-treatment and aligning care with targeted therapies.
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