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Mongolia Daily: Parliament opens 2026 budget debate, PM promises tax relief, Tulga wins silver, and cold snap hits

MongoliaDaily

Politics

Parliament Opens Debate on 2026 Budget as PM Pledges Leaner State, Tax Relief, and Human Capital Push

Published: 2025-09-15

Parliament began first readings on the 2026 budget and medium‑term framework, with Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar outlining a consolidation agenda: lower spending as a share of GDP (to 32.2%), a 1.38 trillion₮ deficit (~1.3% of GDP), and tighter control of state entities, alongside major outlays for health, education, energy, roads, and border upgrades. He pledged a third‑stage tax reform centered on larger VAT refunds and private‑sector incentives, while positioning the budget as a public‑consultation product. The Fiscal Stability Council called the framework more realistic but warned of medium‑term risks and urged deeper expenditure restraint. Structural vulnerabilities remain acute, including extreme export concentration, full fuel import dependence, and low diversification (139/145 globally).

“The 2026 budget is a new step to trim a bloated state, tighten discipline and accountability, and relieve taxpayers by 3–4 trillion₮.” - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (montsame.mn)

“Expenditure should move toward 27% of GDP to best support growth; otherwise, dual deficits could re‑emerge in 2026.” - Fiscal Stability Council Chair N. Enkhbayar (gogo.mn)

Coverage:

Parliament Opens Autumn Session, Prioritizes Overcrowded Schools and 2026 Budget Framework

Published: 2025-09-15

Parliament convened its first autumn plenary, taking up the 2026 Budget Framework and related fiscal legislation. Speaker D. Amarbayasgalan highlighted mounting pressure on the education system, citing a 43% rise in student numbers, a current shortage of over 5,000 teachers projected to reach 14,000 in three years, and severe classroom overcrowding. More than half of students attend over-capacity schools; 124 schools are classified as highly overloaded, and 108 new schools are deemed necessary at an estimated cost of MNT 1.6 trillion. These remarks signal that education infrastructure and workforce reforms—pay flexibility, workload valuation, and transparent performance assessment—are set to feature in budget priorities.

“When one classroom holds 70 children, we have no right to hide behind ‘no budget’.” - D. Amarbayasgalan, Parliament Speaker (gogo.mn)

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Speaker Opens Autumn Session with Push for Tax and Social Insurance Overhaul; Budget Critiqued for Flat Education Spend

Published: 2025-09-15

Parliament opened its autumn session marking 35 years of a permanent legislature with Speaker D. Amarbayasgalan outlining reform priorities: lowering tax burdens, overhauling social insurance to individual accounts, tightening state-owned enterprise (SOE) governance, and rebalancing health spending toward primary care. He urged a shift from tax-heavy revenues (92% of 2024 income) by improving SOE dividends and cutting public payroll costs, while warning the 2026 draft budget runs a MNT 1.3 trillion deficit and fails to raise education outlays despite severe teacher shortages and overcrowding. Education needs cited include 108 new schools over three years and expanding school meals to all grades. Health insurance costs have surged to MNT 1.9 trillion since 2020 without commensurate quality gains. Veteran speakers convened in the “Khuraldai” forum to discuss continuity, legislative quality, and embedding scientific advice.

“Social insurance has become a penalty for those who work and create jobs; the old system must be fundamentally replaced so citizens control their own accounts.” - Speaker D. Amarbayasgalan (eagle.mn)

“Citizens want 2026 budget spending prioritized for health and education, yet education funding was not increased in the submitted draft.” - Speaker D. Amarbayasgalan (itoim.mn)

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Ruling Party Reviews 2026 Budget Draft as Opposition Secures Two-Day Recess

Published: 2025-09-15

Parliament opened discussions on the 2026 state budget with parallel party moves shaping the timetable. The ruling MPP caucus heard Cabinet Secretary N. Uchral present the draft 2026 budget, the medium-term fiscal framework update, and amendments to the 2027–2028 budget law. Lawmakers also reviewed the President’s “Gold-3” initiative measures and a partial veto affecting a parliamentary resolution.

The Democratic Party (DP) caucus argued procedure, requesting time to align the annual budget with an approved 2026–2030 medium-term plan. Following their request, the Speaker granted a shorter pause than sought, setting a two-day recess for the DP caucus.

“An annual budget must align with medium-term planning. Discussing the budget without approving the 2026–2030 plan is procedurally wrong. We request a five-day recess.” - O. Tsogtgerel, DP caucus leader (eagle.mn)

The pause may delay initial votes while committees reconcile the budget with forthcoming medium-term targets and presidential veto considerations.

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Democratic Party Leader O.Tsogtgerel Pledges Pro-Work Agenda at Democracy Day Gathering in Khentii

Published: 2025-09-15

At an International Day of Democracy event in Khentii on September 14, Democratic Party (DP) chair and MP O.Tsogtgerel set a platform centered on reducing taxes and prioritizing working citizens over welfare. Citing Mongolia’s slide in democracy rankings—falling to 81st and being labeled among six autocratic regimes—DP leaders convened with the Konrad Adenauer Foundation to reassess goals as the party seeks consecutive electoral wins. Tsogtgerel outlined a strategy to court youth, entrepreneurs, and nationalist voters, framing victory as a function of organization and policy rather than size or patronage.

“We will build a state that supports citizens who live by honest work, not a state that bottle-feeds via welfare. We will overcome poverty through work, not handouts.” - O. Tsogtgerel, Democratic Party chair (itoim.mn)

The event included senior DP figures and KAS’s country representative, signaling ongoing cooperation on democratic capacity-building.

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Energy Ministry Division Head Probed for Alleged Bribery Tied to Power Plant Acceptance

Published: 2025-09-15

Mongolia’s Criminal Police Department conducted searches at the Energy Ministry and opened an investigation into Department Head S. Tserenjamts for alleged abuse of office and bribery connected to the state acceptance of an incomplete thermal power plant project in Khanbogd, Umnugovi. Energyservice Montage LLC reportedly won a 26.9 billion MNT tender to build the plant and sought state acceptance despite unfinished work, allegedly bribing Tserenjamts and engineers from the state-owned CHP-3 and CHP-4, as well as a Khanbogd local council member from the ruling party. Investigators seized evidence from homes and offices of suspects and company executives; one Lexus 600 vehicle was reportedly frozen as illicit proceeds. The case has been transferred to the Anti-Corruption Agency. Courts imposed travel bans and personal recognizance, but no pretrial detention.

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Labor Minister Rules Out Pension Increase Citing $1.2B Funding Gap

Published: 2025-09-15

Mongolia’s Minister of Labor and Social Protection T. Aubakir said the government cannot proceed with proposed pension increases due to a large financing shortfall. The ministry’s estimate indicates raising pensions for 93.4% of retirees—those receiving up to MNT 1.5 million—would cost MNT 4.1 trillion (about USD 1.2 billion). He flagged unresolved questions over funding sources and potential economic side effects if such an amount were injected into circulation, including inflationary pressure and fiscal strain on the social insurance fund.

“To be frank, there is no possibility to increase pensions.” - T. Aubakir, Minister of Labor and Social Protection (urug.mn)

The statement underscores fiscal constraints facing social welfare reforms and suggests no immediate changes to pension levels without identifying sustainable financing or offsetting measures.

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Economy

Fiscal Council Flags Rising Risks as Medium-Term Budget Plans Cut Spending and Forecast Deficits

Published: 2025-09-15

Mongolia’s Fiscal Stability Council (TТБЗ) endorsed the shift to tighter fiscal policy but warned of mounting risks in the 2026 budget package and updated Medium-Term Budget Framework. Authorities plan to trim general government spending from a 2024 peak of 38.3% of GDP toward 28.6% by 2028, while the consolidated balance will remain in deficit at -1.3% of GDP in 2026, narrowing to -0.4% by 2028. Revenue assumptions hinge on mining, notably coking coal exports to China, with analysts expecting broadly stable coal prices in 2026—slight gains for thermal coal and mild declines for coking coal—underscoring vulnerability to China’s demand and Australian supply. The Council urged curbing current outlays, sequencing tax reforms, and improving policy coherence.

“The budget is projected to run deficits for the next three years, increasing exposure to external financing and exchange-rate risk.” - D. Uuganbaatar, Fiscal Stability Council member (ikon.mn)

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Budget Adviser Urges Diversification as Coal Volatility Undercuts 2026 Planning

Published: 2025-09-15

Mongolia’s Fiscal Stability Council briefed on the 2026 budget risks, with economist N. Enkhbayar warning that reliance on commodity windfalls has distorted spending and complicated consolidation as prices retreat. He said past forecasts consistently missed, underscoring the need to diversify revenue away from coal and to stabilize policy using the Fiscal Stability Law and council oversight. Enkhbayar flagged infrastructure constraints until around 2028 and uncertainty over China’s steel policy, which weakens coking coal prospects. He urged a shift toward processing and exports in copper (including smelting), rare earths, and uranium, while noting gold has “served its role” and carries environmental costs. He also called for advancing new deposits, including Erdenet’s “Oyuut” and Bayankhongor gold, within five years to support a broader export base.

“The time to rely on coal has passed… We should diversify without depending on coal.” - Economist N. Enkhbayar (eagle.mn)

“Politicians assumed mineral prices would rise continuously and planned lavish budgets; once spending is raised, cutting it back has heavy social costs.” - Economist N. Enkhbayar (peak.mn)

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Bayankhundi Industrial Mining Complex Starts Operations, Targets Up to 15% of Annual Gold Deliveries

Published: 2025-09-15

A new industrial mining complex at the Bayankhundi deposit in Shinejinst, Bayankhongor province has commenced operations, delivering its first product to the State Treasury via the Bank of Mongolia. The inauguration drew representatives from the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, the Bank of Mongolia, Bayankhongor authorities, and the Canadian Embassy. Built with over MNT 500 billion in direct Canadian investment, the complex integrates mining, processing, power, and water infrastructure, constructed by more than 1,400 Mongolian workers. During the operational phase, it expects to create 400–500 jobs, with about half filled by locally trained youth. The project aims to produce up to 15% of the gold annually delivered to the central bank, potentially strengthening official gold purchases, export earnings, and local employment in a traditionally underinvested region.

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Terms of Trade Ease Year-on-Year as Coal Price Slump Offsets Softer Import Costs

Published: 2025-09-15

Mongolia’s terms of trade index reached 146.9 in July 2025, up 3.2% from June and 5.0% from end‑2024, but down 4.1% year-on-year, according to the National Statistics Office. Export prices rose month-on-month (+4.7%) and versus end‑2024 (+1.9%) but were 8.0% lower than a year earlier, pulling the export price index to 166.1. The key drag was coal: benchmark prices fell 44.3% year-on-year, weighing on export receipts despite recent monthly gains. Import prices continued to soften on an annual basis, with the import price index at 113.1, down 4.1% year-on-year and 3.0% from end‑2024, though up 1.4% from June. Lower prices for paper, cardboard, and related products (–12.3% y/y) were the main contributors. The mixed picture signals improved monthly trade conditions but persistent external price headwinds versus last year, led by coal.

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Mining Week Highlights Shift Toward Private Management and Investor-Led Projects

Published: 2025-09-15

Mining pro expo-2025 concluded in Nalaikh with a sharpened focus on investor-friendly messaging and streamlined programming, reflecting a broader policy shift away from state-operated mega-deposits. Organizers emphasized prioritizing high-potential projects and leaders’ positions, signaling that the long-held assumption of state exploitation of large deposits is being reconsidered across the board. Industry participants argued that state-owned firms need not manage projects if the National Wealth Fund’s citizen savings accounts continue to grow. They outlined a model where private operators develop industrial feedstock and partner with capable firms, while the state enforces environmental standards and ensures a majority share of direct national benefit.

“Let investors handle management; the key is meeting environmental standards and securing a 50+1 percent direct benefit for Mongolia.” - O. Orgilokh (unuudur.mn)

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Golomt Bank Partners with MiningWeek & MinePro 2025, Signs Equipment Financing Deals

Published: 2025-09-15

MiningWeek & MinePro 2025, a major collaboration platform for Mongolia’s minerals sector, is being held on September 11–13 under the theme “New Cycle in Minerals: Investment & Responsible Mining.” Golomt Bank joined as a partner for the second year, showcasing its Leasing Center service for heavy machinery procurement and signing equipment financing agreements with Epiroc Mongolia LLC, Sandvik Mongolia LLC, and TOP Gan Drilling LLC. Organizers say more than 300 entities—including major mining projects, suppliers, technology providers, and women-led businesses—are exhibiting. The event, initiated by the Ministry of Industry and Minerals, the Mineral Resources and Petroleum Authority, and the Mongolian National Mining Association, aims to link stakeholders to strengthen industrialization, responsible mining, and investment cooperation. Activities continue through September 13, with broad participation encouraged.

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Construction Investment Rises to ₮9.1 Trillion as Expo Highlights Green and International Partnerships

Published: 2025-09-15

Mongolia’s construction sector reported ₮9.1 trillion in investment for construction, assembly, and major repairs in 2024, up from ₮7.9 trillion in 2023, according to data presented at the 38th “Barilga Expo-2025” held September 12–14 at the Buyant-Ukhaa Sports Palace. The sector accounts for 3.3% of GDP and employs 96,100 workers, including 8,154 licensed and consulting engineers. This year’s expo showcased new housing projects, sector reform priorities, green building solutions, advanced technologies, and pathways to attract foreign capital. Over 60 companies from more than 20 countries, including Russia, China, South Korea, Germany, Italy, Turkey, and Japan, joined 300+ domestic firms to present products and services. Organizers also centralized information on materials, equipment, interior design, architecture, special permits, and rent-to-own housing frameworks for prospective buyers and developers.

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MCA–Mongolia Seeks Driver, Applications Close September 29

Published: 2025-09-15

The Millennium Challenge Account–Mongolia (MCA–Mongolia) announced an open Driver position with a 17:00 ULAT, September 29, 2025 deadline. The role supports the Administrative Division, ensuring safe transport for staff and guests, vehicle readiness, and rigorous compliance with MCA policies. Responsibilities include safety briefings, adherence to load limits, daily vehicle checks, meticulous trip logging for Finance, and strict preventative maintenance scheduling. Candidates must hold valid Mongolian B and D licenses, possess at least five years’ driving experience in Ulaanbaatar and the countryside, and demonstrate English proficiency at ILR Level 1 or higher. Applications—CV, cover letter, diploma copy, and relevant documents—must be submitted in English to [email protected], noting the position in the subject line. MCA–Mongolia states no fees are charged at any recruitment stage; only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

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Diplomacy

China Invites Mongolia to Join SCO as Tianjin Summit Sets 10‑Year Strategy and New Security, Finance Hubs

Published: 2025-09-15

China’s ambassador in Ulaanbaatar said the Tianjin SCO summit approved an ambitious 10-year strategy, created four security centers, and endorsed establishing an SCO Development Bank, while consolidating partner categories and adding Laos. Beijing urged Mongolia to deepen cooperation and consider full membership, positioning the bloc for expanded trade, energy, and digital initiatives with new platforms in China. The meeting coincided with World War II commemoration events attended by President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, who also held bilateral and trilateral talks with China and Russia; five cooperation documents were signed, including a protocol enabling Mongolian honey exports to China. The trilateral leaders reaffirmed political trust and practical cooperation, with SCO coordination flagged as a pillar.

“Regardless of how the international landscape changes, China will remain a reliable partner Mongolia can trust and rely on.” - President Xi Jinping, via Ambassador Shen Minjuan (itoim.mn)

“The Tianjin summit was the most wide-ranging and result-rich to date.” - Ambassador Shen Minjuan (montsame.mn)

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Infrastructure

Consortium Selected to Build 1,800-Unit Housing Phase in Ulaanbaatar’s Khaan Material District

Published: 2025-09-15

Ulaanbaatar has awarded the first-phase contract for a 3,000-unit integrated housing project in Songinokhairkhan District’s Khaan Material area to a consortium of Materialimpex JSC, Materialimpex Construction LLC, and Konconsulting LLC. The 2025–2029 development spans 20.7 hectares under the city’s “20-minute city” plan to expand affordable housing while easing pollution and congestion. Phase one will deliver 1,800 units across 24 buildings (7–9 floors), two kindergartens, a 400-seat office and training center, retail and entertainment space, sports facilities, and 1,200 parking spaces, with 60% of land allocated to parks, pedestrian/cycle paths, play areas, and lighting. Land clearance for 232 plots is 93.9% complete, enabling construction mobilization. The project aligns with Ulaanbaatar’s 24 mega initiatives targeting urban renewal in nodes such as Bayankhoshuu, Selbe, Khaan Material, and Khunnu City.

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Ulaanbaatar Accelerates Underpasses at Four Sites, Moves to Settle Land Issues at “Hermes” Location

Published: 2025-09-15

Ulaanbaatar is advancing a four-site underpass program to ease congestion, with the Tavan Shar underpass already operational and the Geology Central Laboratory junction and “Hermes” railway underpass works being prioritized. Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar inspected the “Hermes” site and said the third underpass would open this year. Land clearance remains a bottleneck at “Hermes,” where nine businesses are affected; five have yet to agree to compensation terms. Disputes include refusal to allow asset valuation, demands for additional land, and challenges to valuations. Officials indicated further negotiations this week, with administrative procedures to follow if no settlement is reached. The city frames grade separation as key to reducing road-rail conflicts and improving both road traffic flow and rail freight throughput.

“We need to reach agreement with these five companies. Come meet this week; if not, we will proceed under the General Administrative Law.” - Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar (urug.mn)

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Planned Power Outages This Week for Ulaanbaatar Districts and Tuv Province During Grid Maintenance

Published: 2025-09-15

Ulaanbaatar’s power distributor, UBCTS JSC, will cut electricity to selected areas for maintenance from September 15–21, affecting parts of Bayangol, Khan-Uul, Songinokhairkhan, Sukhbaatar, Chingeltei, and Nalaikh districts, as well as Argalant and Battsumber in Tuv Province. Outages will vary by location and occur between 09:00 and 20:00. Businesses and households should expect intermittent service as line and equipment upgrades proceed. The work is part of ongoing network reliability improvements before winter demand peaks. Detailed, street-level schedules are provided by the utility; impacted entities should review timings to plan operations, backup power, and logistics accordingly. No official offered additional guidance beyond the maintenance notice, and the utilities did not specify contingency support for critical services.

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Published: 2025-09-15

Member of Parliament Ts. Tuvaan defended the Gashuunsukhait–Gants Mod border rail connection, stressing it is a publicly endorsed, government-to-government project and not a secret deal. He said the rail link—Mongolia’s second cross-border connection to China—cleared the State Great Khural three times and is now in preparatory works, with aims to boost coal export capacity beyond road transport. Tuvaan differentiated coal sales via the mining exchange and long-term contracts, noting delivered prices include transport while “mouth-of-mine” prices do not. He emphasized that contract prices are regularly adjusted.

“Coal prices are recalculated every 1–3 months as the market moves. It doesn’t mean $50 for 16 years.” - MP Ts. Tuvaan (ikon.mn)

He added that current sales to China Energy are cash-based, not barter or loans, and that resource expansion at Onch Kharaat and Bor Tolgoi is under study to lift exports.

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Murun Expands Utility Networks to Connect 2,048 Ger-District Households

Published: 2025-09-15

Murun’s municipal program “Let’s Live Well in Murun” has enabled 2,048 households in the ger districts to connect to engineering utility networks. In Bags 2, 3, and 4, 795 households are ready to join water and wastewater lines, while in Bags 7 and 13, 1,253 households can access water, wastewater, and district heating. The project, funded with MNT 21 billion from the state budget, is being implemented by Energotech Service LLC and Ev Ukhaat LLC. Officials expect improved living conditions and higher property values as connections proceed. Murun has 14 bags with 43,471 registered residents and a total population of about 51,000, indicating a sizable urban upgrade for one of Khuvsgul province’s key centers and future demand for service expansion and maintenance.

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Ulaanbaatar Adopts Laser-Based Road Damage Mapping to Guide Maintenance Plans

Published: 2025-09-15

Ulaanbaatar’s Road Development Department has introduced an LCMS laser-based assessment system to detect road surface damage at millimeter accuracy, enabling faster diagnostics and data-driven maintenance planning across districts. Officials say the technology will support maintaining road quality at 80–85% and extend service life targets to 10–15 years by optimizing repairs. The system, supplied by New Zealand’s Data Collection Limited, uses over 4,000 lasers to register potholes, cracks, rutting, and subsidence, capturing 3D measurements across a four-meter lane width. This is Mongolia’s second high-capacity deployment, aligning with international use in South America, the Middle East, India, Thailand, and Malaysia.

“By introducing the LCMS, we can quickly determine road quality and safety and develop maintenance plans for districts.” - B. Odbayar, head of Ulaanbaatar Road Development Department (unuudur.mn)

“We record all types of road damage with over 4,000 lasers and track a four-meter lane in 3D with millimeter precision, making maintenance planning more efficient.” - Vinish Vaala, service engineer, Data Collection Limited (unuudur.mn)

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Zavkhan Launches Seven Regional Infrastructure Projects to Build Western Transport Corridor

Published: 2025-09-15

Zavkhan province has initiated seven projects under Mongolia’s regional development policy, prioritizing road and power links to form a third transnational road corridor connecting China, Mongolia, and Europe. Projects include upgrading Arts Suuri border post in Tes soum with MNT 73 billion in state funding, feasibility and design for a Western transport logistics hub in Uliastai, and new youth cultural and recreation facilities to expand green public spaces. Feasibility studies are also underway for a 220 kV Mörön–Uliastai–Altai transmission line and the Khovd–Uliastai paved highway, while construction proceeds on Uliastai–Altai and Arts Suuri–Tüdevtei roads. An ADB-financed “Industrial Technology Park” is planned in Tosontsengel to anchor a western industrial zone. New tourism routes are being developed with bridge designs over the Zavkhan River at Khomyn Khol, Dörvöljin, and Shiluustei. Nationally, over MNT 3 trillion will fund 2,100 km of new roads this year.

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Repairs Begin on 50 km Stretch of Choibalsan–Öndörkhaan Road with World Bank Funding

Published: 2025-09-15

Road rehabilitation has started on a 50 km section of the Choibalsan–Öndörkhaan corridor in Dornod Province, backed by a $16.6 million World Bank financing package. The project, awarded to Shandong Luqiao Group, is slated to run for two years. The upgraded carriageway will be 7 meters wide with a 10-meter embankment, incorporating a 38 cm cement-stabilized layer and a crushed-stone base—standards aimed at improving durability and safety on a key interprovincial route. In parallel, paving works have begun on the Norovlin–Bayanuul road. Improved connectivity on these routes is expected to shorten travel times between eastern aimags, reduce vehicle operating costs, and support regional trade and logistics, particularly for freight moving through Choibalsan as an emerging transport node in the east.

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Society

Ulaanbaatar Public Library Signs Cooperation Deal with Busan Libraries and Busan Global City Foundation

Published: 2025-09-15

Ulaanbaatar’s D. Natsagdorj Public Library has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Busan Global City Foundation and Busan Library to deepen cultural and educational ties between the two cities. The agreement, reached during a meeting between Ulaanbaatar Deputy Mayor A. Amartuvshin and a Busan delegation led by City Council member Hwang Seok-chil and Deputy Mayor Sohn Byung-mo, aligns with preparations for the 10th anniversary of sister-city relations. The partners will exchange and donate books, run public programs, share operational expertise, and facilitate staff and information exchanges. Joint activities will be developed under Busan Global City Foundation’s international cooperation framework to strengthen city-to-city collaboration and people-to-people links through culture and education. The initiative signals a soft-power push to broaden engagement beyond traditional municipal channels and could open avenues for academic partnerships and youth exchanges.

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Police Warn of Surge in Online Fraud as Cases Jump 47% Year-on-Year

Published: 2025-09-15

Mongolia’s National Police Agency reports a sharp escalation in fraud, with total recorded cases up 47% compared to the same period last year. Digital schemes dominate: 72.1% of fraud registered in the first eight months of 2025 occurred online. Authorities cite common lures including bargain rentals, high-interest loan offers, fake charity appeals using children’s images, task-based jobs on Telegram, and online lotteries—often designed to extract upfront payments or personal data. The warning underscores rising cybercrime risks as e-commerce and messaging platforms expand, with criminals leveraging persuasive, low-friction payment channels. Businesses and consumers are advised to verify sellers, avoid prepayments to unfamiliar accounts, and treat unsolicited “too-good-to-be-true” offers with skepticism.

“Online fraud presents the most favorable conditions, so be vigilant.” - Lt. Col. E. Enkhzayaa, Senior Officer, National Police Agency (ikon.mn)

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Vigil Held in Sükhbaatar Square for 16-Year-Old Victim as Murder Case Moves to Trial

Published: 2025-09-15

Mourners lit candles in Ulaanbaatar’s Sükhbaatar Square to honor a 16-year-old girl killed in a June 2024 homicide that also claimed the life of a 32-year-old woman. Prosecutors have filed charges against suspects identified as Ts.D and Kh.E, transferring the case to court. An initial hearing is scheduled for September 17, 2025. The public commemoration underscores continued concern over violent crime and the pace of judicial proceedings. Authorities have not released further details on the investigation or potential motives. The case will draw scrutiny for how the court addresses youth protection, victim support, and timelines for serious criminal trials. No official statements were cited in the reporting.

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Environment

Cold Snap Brings Rain, Wet Snow and Ground Frost Across Much of the Country

Published: 2025-09-15

A widespread cold front is bringing rain and wet snow to western, central, Gobi, and most eastern provinces on Sep 15, with additional precipitation in parts of the east on Sep 16. Forecasters warn of slippery passes, strengthening winds up to 14–16 m/s in places, and significant temperature drops. Ulaanbaatar will see light daytime precipitation on Sep 15, then clearer but colder overnight conditions; ground frost of below –5°C is expected around the capital and in Bulgan, Tuv, and Khentii during the night of Sep 15–16, while Selenge, Orkhon, and Darkhan-Uul may see ground frost near 0°C. From Sep 16–20, conditions turn mostly dry, with another bout of precipitation possible in the west on Sep 19 and a modest warm-up after Sep 18. Dorno d province expects light ground frost overnight and a colder, snowier-than-average winter outlook.

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Ulaanbaatar, POSCO International to Develop Greywater-Fed District Heating and Emissions Cuts Project

Published: 2025-09-15

Ulaanbaatar city and South Korea’s POSCO International signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on using greywater to expand district heating capacity and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The agreement includes joint preparation of a feasibility study and explores additional projects that contribute to shared development goals. The initiative comes as Mongolia and South Korea mark 35 years of diplomatic relations, reflecting deepening technical and investment ties. For Ulaanbaatar, which faces winter heating demand peaks and air pollution pressures, leveraging treated greywater could diversify heat sources and improve efficiency in centralized systems. POSCO International’s participation suggests potential for Korean technology transfer and financing structures. Next steps will focus on the technical-economic assessment to determine scale, cost, and integration with existing heating networks.

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Innovation

Compressed Fuel Sales Launch in Ulaanbaatar with Digital Purchase Options and Expanded Supply Network

Published: 2025-09-15

Ulaanbaatar opened the 2025–2026 heating season by starting sales of improved briquetted fuel at 274 contracted points, scaling to 400 sites citywide. An initial 1,370 tons is on the market, with “Tavan Tolgoi Tulsh” pre-positioning 42,635 tons across 20 warehouses to avoid supply gaps. Households can purchase via the HOTULA mobile app or legacy “Sain” cards; authorities plan a phased shift to app-based purchases, with some outlets indicating full app transition later in the season. Prices are set at MNT 3,750 per 25 kg bag for briquettes, while semi-coke fuel—sourced from China—is slated for sale from October 1 at MNT 5,000 per 25 kg bag. City officials reiterated the continuing ban on raw coal to curb winter air pollution and streamline distribution through digitized tracking and inventory visibility.

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International Education Fair Offers Scholarships and Discounts at GoXplore 2025 in Ulaanbaatar

Published: 2025-09-15

GoXplore 2025, an international education fair, will be held on September 20 at the Tuushin Hotel’s Soyombo Hall, bringing 40+ universities and language academies from 15 countries to Ulaanbaatar. Organizers say attendees can receive on-the-spot guidance on admissions, scholarship options for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs, and language study pathways, alongside promotions reportedly worth up to $20,000. The event targets a broad audience, including those seeking English training and parents exploring winter/summer camps and study-travel programs for children. Sessions include sponsor talks on education trends and a raffle offering round-trip international tickets and 50% scholarships. Registration is free; participants are promised school-issued discounts up to $300 and small gifts. Hours run 09:00–18:00 at Tuushin Hotel, 5th floor, Soyombo Hall.

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Experts Urge Media Literacy Curriculum as Online Fraud and Misinformation Rise

Published: 2025-09-15

Mongolia faces escalating online fraud—over MNT 200 billion in losses in 2023, including MNT 100 billion via Telegram—exposing a broader deficit in media literacy. Educators and fact-checkers warn that secondary-school curricula lack core competencies like source evaluation, verification, privacy protection, and ethical sharing. The Mongolian Fact-Checking Center distinguishes misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation, noting increasingly sophisticated, coordinated campaigns. International models cited include UK classroom integration of verification tasks and Google-backed programs (Be Internet Legends/Citizens), while Finland embeds fact-checking in national curricula. PISA results show poor reading comprehension among 15-year-olds (65th of 81), underscoring the skills gap. Advocates call for cross-subject, practice-based instruction to cultivate critical thinking and protect against financial, health, and civic harms.

“The push to steer what people think has not stopped; it is becoming more sophisticated and organized.” - E. Batsetseg, Director, Mongolian Fact-Checking Center (unuudur.mn)

“Information literacy now means approaching content critically and ethically, not just using computers.” - B. Chinzorig, Journalism Lecturer, MNUE (unuudur.mn)

“Verifying truthfulness is a foundational skill as AI enables convincing fake images and videos.” - E. Sundar, Education Researcher (unuudur.mn)

Coverage:

Health

2026 Draft Budget Channels 1.3 Trillion MNT to Health; Education Outlays Also Doubled

Published: 2025-09-15

Parliament began deliberations on the 2026 state budget, with the government proposing a sharp realignment toward social sectors. Health investment is set to increase 5.5 times to 1.3 trillion MNT, while education spending would double. The cabinet said concessional loans and aid will be steered primarily into these areas, reflecting public demand. Planned health projects include advancing Cancer Center No. 2—relocated after a land dispute in Bayanzürkh District—and establishing a National Cardiovascular Center based at the State Third Central Hospital. The budget bill follows a four-reading process and must be approved next month, signaling tight timelines for line ministries and contractors to prepare tenders and implementation plans. Officials presented the package in a unified session, underscoring a policy pivot toward healthcare capacity and specialized tertiary services.

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Australian ICU Nursing Experts Lead Skills-Based Training in Ulaanbaatar

Published: 2025-09-15

A skills-based intensive care nursing course was held on September 13 in Ulaanbaatar, jointly organized by the Mongolian Society of Intensive Care, the World Federation of Intensive and Critical Care, the Australia and New Zealand Intensive Care Society, and the National Trauma and Orthopedic Research Center (GEMTSUT). The program, the first of its kind in Mongolia, gathered ICU staff from district hospitals and national referral centers. Instructors Keiraka Nakazawa, an ICU nurse consultant at Austin Health, and Sarah Park, an ICU nursing lecturer at Swinburne University, delivered both theory and hands-on sessions on international care protocols, new technologies, and practice innovations. The visiting faculty also reviewed the ICU operations at GEMTSUT, exchanging views with clinicians on service organization, patient loads, and unit-specific challenges. The collaboration signals growing clinical capacity-building links with Australia and New Zealand, potentially informing future ICU practice standards and training pathways in Mongolia.

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Task Force Formed to Draft Plan to Improve Nursing Care Quality and Access

Published: 2025-09-15

The Ministry of Health has established a task force to develop a policy plan to enhance the quality, accessibility, and safety of nursing services. The group will conduct baseline research on domestic and international conditions affecting nursing care, aiming to align improvements with Mongolia’s medium- and long-term development strategies. Priorities include strengthening workforce skills, improving patient safety, and bolstering social protection for nurses. The task force also plans to refine the sector’s policy and legal framework, incorporating input from provincial nurses and specialists to ensure nationwide applicability. For healthcare providers and investors, the initiative signals an impending update to standards, training requirements, and regulatory provisions that could influence staffing models, accreditation, and service delivery across public and private facilities.

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Sports

T.Tulga Takes Silver in Zagreb, Securing Mongolia’s 80th World Wrestling Medal

Published: 2025-09-15

Mongolia’s Tömör-Ochir T.Tulga won silver in the men’s freestyle 70 kg at the UWW World Championships in Zagreb, marking the country’s 80th overall world wrestling medal and the 29th silver. Tulga advanced with dominant wins over Moldova’s Vasile Diacon (2:0), Bulgaria’s Mihail Georgiev (by fall), Georgia’s Akaki Kemertelidze (11:0), and defeated reigning world champion Nurkozha Kaipanov of Kazakhstan (5:2) in the semifinal before falling 1:5 to Japan’s Yoshinosuke Aoyagi in the final. This is Tulga’s second world medal after bronze at Oslo 2021, and Mongolia’s first at 70 kg since the weight class joined the program in 2014. The Zagreb event carries an €8 million prize pool, half funded by Croatia’s government, underscoring growing financial backing for wrestling. Fellow Mongolian O. Süldkhüü will wrestle for bronze at 79 kg.

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Arts

MCA-Mongolia Seeks Consultant to Produce Animation for Ulaanbaatar Water Program Outreach

Published: 2025-09-15

MCA-Mongolia issued a Request for Qualification Information to procure consulting services for animation production supporting its Water Supply Project in Ulaanbaatar. Funded under the US$350 million MCC Compact (2018), the assignment will develop animated content aligned with three investments: new downstream groundwater wells and an advanced water purification plant, a wastewater recycling plant to free up freshwater for households, and sector reforms to bolster long-term sustainability. The procurement follows MCC’s Consultants’ Qualification Selection method and is open to eligible firms globally. Registration and RQI access are via [email protected] (cc: [email protected]). Clarification requests are due by September 24, 2025, 15:00 Ulaanbaatar Time; consolidated Q&A will be released by September 26, 17:00. Electronic qualification submissions are due by October 1, 2025, 15:00 local time; late or email/hard-copy submissions will not be accepted.

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