Politics
Published: 2025-11-13
Parliament’s temporary oversight committee on Oyu Tolgoi set an open evidentiary hearing for December 8–12, focusing on two tracks: state equity implications tied to the “Javkhlant” and “Shivee Tolgoi” licenses, and the shareholder agreements’ financing terms, including loan interest benchmarking to global norms. The committee approved the timetable with 70% support and will summon roughly 300 witnesses spanning 20 years of decisions—among them three former presidents and seven former prime ministers, as well as officials from key ministries, regulators, and executives from Rio Tinto, Oyu Tolgoi LLC, and state firms. Officials say 60,000+ pages of records are under review, some currently classified. The Oyu Tolgoi board and executives did not attend a planned briefing, delaying their presentations.
“We will hold the hearing on December 8–12 and have identified around 300 witnesses connected to Oyu Tolgoi decisions since 2006.” - MP O. Batnairamdal, chair of the ad hoc committee (news.mn)
“This hearing is not about blaming individuals; it is to gather and analyze evidence and uphold the public’s right to know.” - MP B. Bat-Erdene (unuudur.mn)
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Ruling Party Moves to Install N. Uchral as Chair, Eyes Dual Role as Speaker while PM Zandanshatar Stays On
Published: 2025-11-13
Mongolia’s ruling MPP appears set to consolidate leadership: policy council members have coalesced around Deputy PM and Economic Development Minister N. Uchral to become party chair at the November 15–16 congress, with multiple outlets indicating he could also be nominated as Speaker of Parliament afterward. Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar and former Speaker D. Amarbaysgalan both withdrew from the race following intra-party mediation, reducing factional tensions and paving the way for a unified ticket. Reports suggest the governing coalition’s structure will largely hold—PM Zandanshatar to continue, with partner HUN staying in cabinet and the DP declining to join. Speculation persists that Zandanshatar could run for president in 2027, with Uchral later shifting to prime minister. Ulaanbaatar Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar, once floated as a contender, ruled himself out after meeting the president.
“I will not run for party chair. I will continue my work for the capital city.” - Ulaanbaatar Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar (isee.mn)
“This is not a post one simply takes; we’ll follow party procedures and support the younger generation.” - Food, Agriculture and Light Industry Minister J. Enkhbayar (news.mn)
“We must stop power struggles and focus on economic expansion and legal reforms.” - Ulaanbaatar Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar (urug.mn)
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Parliament Passes 2026 State Budget on Deadline Without Speaker, Reallocates Spending to Wage and Pension Increases
Published: 2025-11-13
Parliament approved the 2026 state budget by 71.9% of 96 members voting, meeting the November 15 legal deadline despite the absence of a Speaker and prolonged intra-party disputes within the ruling MPP. Deputy Speaker B. Purevdorj chaired the final sessions, avoiding a potential freeze in local budgets and public-sector payments. The package raises spending by 969.1 billion MNT to fund higher pay and social benefits, including teacher base salaries rising in two stages to 2.8 million MNT by November 2026, a 15% pay hike for health workers, an 8.6% increase in pensions, and a 20% boost to disability pensions and child benefits. Offsetting moves reduce recurrent outlays by 990.2 billion MNT and capital expenditures by 361.1 billion MNT, curbing new equipment and reprioritizing transport projects. The budget targets balanced revenue of 31.93 trillion MNT (32.2% of GDP) with a 1.05 trillion MNT deficit (1% of GDP), while revenue reliance on mining and higher corporate and personal income tax collections raises execution and private-sector risk.
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Parliament Debates 2026–2030 Development Plan; Vote Deferred Over Low Quorum
Published: 2025-11-13
Parliament opened debate on a government resolution to set Mongolia’s 2026–2030 development priorities across eight pillars—human and social development, economic and infrastructure growth, green transition, governance and digitalization, regional balance, competitiveness, and science/AI—linking 330 outcomes to SDGs and aiming to lift productivity, diversify beyond mining, and strengthen service delivery. Lawmakers pressed implementation credibility after the Economic Standing Committee withheld support at first reading. Concerns centered on overlapping plans, execution and monitoring, sector leadership, and equitable income distribution. Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar pledged to curb the state’s footprint by trimming tax burden and tightening fiscal policy, while advancing education, transit tourism, and regional airports. Debate featured sharp critiques of policy focus and social cohesion.
“Let’s focus on a few core sectors—value-added mining, organic agriculture, and tourism—and fix leadership with professionals; otherwise the five-year plan will deliver nothing.” - MP Ts. Davaasüren (gogo.mn)
“I spoke from data about food industry failures, but the agriculture minister repeatedly threatened and insulted me.” - MP M. Mandkhai (gogo.mn)
“We will reduce the tax burden to 31.5% in 2026 and pursue counter-cyclical consolidation to shrink the state’s role.” - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (isee.mn)
A quorum shortfall delayed the procedural vote to continue consideration to the next sitting.
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H. Gankhuyag Appointed Deputy Prime Minister; S. Amarsaikhan Hands Over Portfolio and Urges Policy Continuity
Published: 2025-11-13
Parliament approved MP H. Gankhuyag as Deputy Prime Minister following Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar’s nomination and consultation with the President on October 29. Gankhuyag will oversee regional development, free and special economic zones, disaster management, standards and metrology, and several intergovernmental commissions. He relinquished his Budget Committee chair duties temporarily to MP D. Uuriintuya pending a new chair’s election. During the handover, outgoing Deputy PM S. Amarsaikhan highlighted reforms under his tenure, including multiple pay rises for emergency service personnel, expansion of rescue units, and the “New Cooperatives” initiative. He called for continuity in regional development and standards digitization.
“The Deputy Prime Minister’s office demands 24/7 vigilance and rapid, flexible decisions. I wish you great success.” - S. Amarsaikhan, outgoing Deputy Prime Minister (isee.mn)
“I will deliver tangible results in regional development, special and free economic zones, disaster risk reduction, and standards and accreditation policy.” - H. Gankhuyag, Deputy Prime Minister (gogo.mn)
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Parliament installs J. Bat-Erdene as Deputy Speaker and acting Speaker; H. Gankhuyag appointed Deputy PM as five-year plan debate opens
Published: 2025-11-13
Parliament voted to remove Deputy Speaker Kh. Bulgantuya and elected J. Bat-Erdene as Deputy Speaker with 78% support. He will also act as Speaker until a new chair is chosen, and began presiding over the Nov. 13 sitting as lawmakers opened debate on the 2026–2030 national development directions presented by Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar. The plan outlines eight policy pillars and targets including sustaining GDP growth above 6% and improving governance and competitiveness metrics. Separately, MP Kh. Gankhuyag was appointed Deputy Prime Minister, taking charge of regional development, special economic zones, disaster management, and standards. Debate highlighted budget and policy concerns, from free-zone implementation to disaster-response readiness. The ruling party emphasized its disciplinary action against Bulgantuya, while noting any move to recall her as MP must proceed through parliamentary procedure.
“The caucus acted within its legal authority to hold [Kh. Bulgantuya] accountable… Any issue of recalling a member must be brought by the Standing Committee on State Structure.” - J. Batjargal, MPP caucus leader (isee.mn)
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Bill to Downsize “Khesgiin Akhlagch” Posts Seeks MNT 28 Billion Savings for Health Salaries
Published: 2025-11-13
Two MPs plan to submit a bill in the spring session to digitize and phase out Ulaanbaatar’s “khesgiin akhlagch” neighborhood liaison positions—non-constitutional roles created by city council resolution—to cut spending and redirect funds to health worker pay. The article alleges the posts, roughly 1,970 in the capital with recent salary hikes, function as data-gathering nodes for electoral mobilization. Eliminating or digitalizing their tasks could save about MNT 28 billion. The lawmakers argue the structure violates Mongolia’s constitutional administrative hierarchy (bag/khoro) because “sections” are not recognized, and say they may petition the Constitutional Court if the MPP majority blocks the bill. The piece cites Argentina’s public-sector cuts under President Javier Milei as a comparative example and notes concerns about job losses, countering that displaced workers could shift to private enterprise.
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Parliament Set to Approve State Secrets List as Government Moves to Curb Overclassification
Published: 2025-11-13
The government has advanced a policy to tighten Mongolia’s state secrecy regime by shifting approval of the State Secrets List from cabinet decrees to parliamentary authorization. The Justice Ministry, Cabinet Secretariat, and General Intelligence Agency drafted amendments after authorities found excessive and interest-driven classification across agencies, with 574 items designated as state secrets and institutions setting their own lists. The package would nullify the separate category of “official secrets,” making 882 items from 59 agencies public, and restrict the executive’s ability to expand the list unilaterally. The reforms aim to reduce corruption risks linked to overclassification and strengthen transparency and the public’s right to know. If passed, all information not on the state secrets list would be open, and parliamentary oversight would enable broader public scrutiny. No direct quotes were provided in the article.
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Justice Minister Unveils Evidence Linking Borteeg Coal License Moves to ‘Admineral’; Seeks Expanded Probe
Published: 2025-11-13
Justice and Home Affairs Minister B. Enkhbayar released new documents and audio he says are absent from current investigations, seeking a deeper probe into decisions affecting the Borteeg coal deposit and links to the private firm Admineral. He presented a 2019 text message allegedly from former Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi (ETT) CEO B. Gankhuyag referencing political influence over ETT subsidiary formation and asset control, followed by government and ETT board actions that temporarily moved Borteeg South under an ETT subsidiary later dissolved. Enkhbayar said ETT signed a coal purchase contract with a Hong Kong firm before Admineral’s creation, asserting shared ownership ties. He also alleged irregular real estate transfers involving Hero Entertainment and secret-marked contracts financed via Erdenes Oyu Tolgoi. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene is heard in an audio urging the cancellation of Admineral-related dealings:
“Cancel the issues related to Admineral that have been linked to your name. Otherwise, we will end up in an intractable situation.” - Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene (unuudur.mn)
An attorney for MP D. Amarbaysgalan countered that a cited audio was selectively edited and that Amarbaysgalan sought to reduce an import quota. The minister said materials will be handed to law enforcement. The case could affect ongoing probes into coal contracting, state asset management, and disclosure practices in SOEs.
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Economy
Trade Surplus Narrows as Coal Exports Fall and Copper, Gold Gain in First 10 Months
Published: 2025-11-13
Mongolia traded with 177 countries in the first 10 months of 2025, posting total trade of USD 21.6 billion, with exports at USD 12.2 billion and imports at USD 9.4 billion, yielding a USD 2.9 billion surplus. However, compared to the same period in 2024, turnover fell by USD 1.2 billion, exports by USD 966 million, and imports by USD 228 million, shrinking the surplus by USD 738 million. The export decline was driven by lower coal (-USD 2.9 billion), washed cashmere (-USD 256.7 million), crude oil (-USD 55.4 million), and sheep/goat meat (-USD 14.1 million). Offsetting gains came from copper ore and concentrates (+USD 1.9 billion), combed animal hair (+USD 190.9 million), unprocessed/semi-processed gold (+USD 126.1 million), and zinc ore (+USD 40.2 million). Imports fell on weaker demand for trucks, public transport vehicles, heavy machinery, gasoline, and diesel, while passenger cars and nitrogen fertilizer ticked up. China remained the dominant export market (notably coal and copper), with Switzerland key for gold; Russia led fuel supplies.
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Khan Bank Unveils 2026 Economic Outlook, Plans Major Sustainable Agribusiness Financing
Published: 2025-11-13
Khan Bank presented its “Economic Outlook Report–2026” to corporate clients, offering in-house projections on growth, exchange rate, and inflation alongside analysis of domestic and external drivers. The bank paired the briefing with sessions on digital products, AI-enabled process re-engineering, and sustainability practices to inform corporate planning. Management signaled a pivot to long-term green financing and a sharper focus on sustainable agribusiness clusters—meat, dairy, wool-cashmere, leather, and grain—linking herders, suppliers, and processors. The bank reports US$1.1 billion raised from 29 foreign institutions and disclosed a new US$20 million EBRD line earmarked for sustainable agriculture, with a target to mobilize US$500 million more over two years for the same purpose. It aims to expand sustainable lending, already 23% of its loan book, and reach net-zero operational emissions by 2030.
“We view 2026’s outlook as cautiously optimistic and are rolling out new lending to support shared growth, with priority on sustainable agriculture.” - R. Munkhtuya, CEO of Khan Bank (montsame.mn)
“Global lenders are shifting from brown to green financing; we encourage clients to start greening their businesses now to fully capture this opportunity.” - R. Munkhtuya, CEO of Khan Bank (isee.mn)
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Late Road-Use Fees to Incur 0.5% Daily Penalty as Collection Drive Begins
Published: 2025-11-13
The state-owned Road and Transport Development Center is digitizing fee collection at highway checkpoints, fully activating 12 of 33 nationwide payment points. Authorities warn that unpaid road-use fees will accrue a 0.5% daily penalty after 30 days, and have launched a nationwide campaign from November 5 to recover arrears on site and encourage timely payments. Drivers can check and pay liabilities via Ebarimt.mn, Ezam.mn, and E-Mongolia by entering their registration and vehicle plate numbers. Officials note that revenues fund road maintenance, signaling tighter enforcement to stabilize upkeep budgets as digitalization improves traceability and compliance. For businesses operating fleets, the penalty structure increases the cost of non-compliance and underscores the need to integrate these platforms into regular accounting and dispatch workflows to avoid compounding charges.
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Golomt Bank Wins BNY Mellon STP Award for Cross-Border Payments Efficiency
Published: 2025-11-13
Golomt Bank received The Bank of New York Mellon’s Straight-Through-Processing (STP) award, recognizing its 2024 performance in automating cross-border transactions and meeting SWIFT standards. The accolade highlights minimal manual intervention in international payment processing, which reduces errors, speeds settlement, and lowers operational costs. Golomt reported processing over 35% of Mongolia’s outbound transactions in the first half of 2025, underscoring its market share in foreign payments. The bank partners with 28 international financial institutions across Asia, the Americas, the Middle East, Europe, and the UK, offering services in 15 currencies. The recognition signals the bank’s ongoing digital transformation and alignment with global best practices, suggesting improved reliability and efficiency for corporate and retail clients handling international transfers to and from Mongolia.
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Housing Price Index Rises 13.7% Year-on-Year in October, Led by Older Apartments
Published: 2025-11-13
Mongolia’s housing price index reached 1.36 in October 2025, up 13.7% year-on-year and 1.3% from September, indicating persistent inflationary pressure in urban real estate. Older apartments led gains, with prices rising 14.7% from a year earlier and 1.7% month-on-month, suggesting strong demand for established locations and limited secondary-market supply. New-build prices increased 11.8% annually and 0.3% from September, pointing to more moderate momentum in the primary market. For investors and lenders, the sharper appreciation in older stock may reflect tighter availability and faster absorption, while for households it signals growing affordability pressures. The data imply continued resilience in residential assets despite broader economic uncertainties and could influence central and local authorities’ housing and credit policies, as well as developers’ pricing strategies into the winter season.
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Development Bank CEO Z. Narantuya Dismissed for Irregular Appointment; Open International Search Ordered
Published: 2025-11-13
The Cabinet removed Development Bank of Mongolia CEO Z. Narantuya, citing that her November 7, 2023 appointment bypassed the legally required open international recruitment. Government spokesperson N. Baasandamba said the direct appointment violated law, signaling a reset in governance at the state-owned lender. Narantuya, a former MP and banking executive, responded sharply, framing the move as political and welcoming a transparent hiring process.
“The Development Bank became collateral in the ruling party’s leadership contest button-trading. … I am very pleased we have been forced to announce an open recruitment for a bank that has never done so in its history.” - Z. Narantuya, outgoing CEO (unuudur.mn)
Her tenure lasted one year, during which the bank executed a US$350 million international bond sale in June. The government’s decision implies tighter adherence to statutory procedures and could affect continuity in the bank’s funding strategy and leadership stability.
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Government Unveils Five-Year Plan to Shield Household Incomes with Tax Cuts and Privatization Push
Published: 2025-11-13
The government presented a five-year agenda centered on protecting household incomes through comprehensive tax reforms and market-oriented restructuring. The package proposes revisions to corporate income tax, personal income tax, and VAT, aiming to reduce taxpayer burdens by MNT 3–4 trillion. VAT refunds for monthly purchases up to MNT 1 million would rise from 2% to 5%, effectively increasing quarterly refunds from roughly MNT 50,000 to MNT 125,000 per person. The plan also seeks to curb state participation in the economy by partially listing MIAT, Törin Bank, and Thermal Power Plant No. 3, and to digitize procurement and SOE oversight with AI to enhance transparency. Policy priorities include diversifying beyond mining via oil processing and value-added copper and coal, and upgrading food and light industry such as wool, cashmere, and leather. Recent macro data—stronger budget balance, improved BoP, firmer tugrik, and higher FX reserves—provide momentum, alongside rating outlook upgrades by S&P, Moody’s, and Fitch.
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International Body Endorses Mongolia’s Cashmere Standard Covering Animal Welfare and Traceability
Published: 2025-11-13
An ISO technical committee has formally approved a standard setting requirements for animal welfare, cashmere collection, processing, labeling, and traceability tailored to nomadic herding conditions in Mongolia, according to the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry. The work began in 2020 at China’s initiative, but early drafts lacked provisions reflecting nomadic livestock practices and goat welfare. Mongolian agencies, including the ministry, the Agency for Standardization and Metrology, and the Center for Nomadic Pasture Studies, advocated at the committee’s first meeting in Milan to incorporate national specifics. Representatives from 36 countries unanimously recognized Mongolia’s nomadic heritage and animal welfare practices, validating a system that aligns cashmere supply chains with environmental stewardship and traditional herding. The decision supports international market acceptance of cashmere labeled and traced under these standards, potentially strengthening export credibility and premium positioning.
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Government Orders State Firms’ Legacy Loans Settled via Budget by Q1 2026 as Strategic Supply Bill Moves to Parliament
Published: 2025-11-13
The Cabinet approved submitting a draft law to Parliament under expedited procedure to support the supply of strategically important products and to enable rapid decisions to mitigate external trade shocks and related risks. In parallel, the board of Erdenes Mongol LLC was instructed to ensure that outstanding principal and interest owed by Baganuur JSC and Shivee-Ovoo JSC—incurred under government on-lending from concessional foreign borrowing—are repaid to the state budget by the first quarter of 2026. Since 1991, the government has utilized concessional financing from foreign governments and international financial institutions to implement domestic projects, including coal-related initiatives and an export credit line for these two coal producers. The measures signal tighter oversight of state-linked debts while aiming to safeguard critical domestic supplies.
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Corporate Income Tax Rules Clarified with Tiered Rates and Small-Business Relief Explained
Published: 2025-11-13
Mongolia’s tax authority outlined how corporate income tax (CIT) applies under the 2020 law, highlighting small-business reliefs and tiered rates, with further amendments proposed for 2025. Firms with up to MNT 300 million in taxable income can elect a simplified regime paying 1% of gross revenue, while those between MNT 300 million and MNT 1.5 billion pay 10% and receive a 90% refund of that tax. Standard progressive rates remain: 10% up to MNT 6 billion and 25% on amounts above, with MNT 600 million due on the first MNT 6 billion. Officials stressed deductibility rules, loss carryforward (four years, capped at 50% of taxable income annually), and differing obligations for resident and non-resident entities, including withholding on dividends, interest, royalties, and 20% on profits remitted by a permanent establishment. A proposal to change the 2% property sale tax for individuals is still under parliamentary review, not yet law.
“Small and medium enterprises may opt for a simplified regime to pay 1% of total revenue, while entities earning MNT 300 million to MNT 1.5 billion pay 10% and can reclaim 90% of the tax paid.” - L. Battsengel, State Tax Inspector (montsame.mn)
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Vehicle Imports and Sales Drop 25% in First 10 Months as Market Cools
Published: 2025-11-13
Mongolia’s auto market slowed sharply in the first 10 months of 2024, with passenger and freight vehicle imports totaling 82,550 and 18,455 respectively—down about 25% year on year, according to the National Statistics Office. The downturn follows a record 152,000 vehicles sold in 2023, suggesting a pullback after a peak year. Autos remain the country’s second-largest import expense after fuel, with annual spending typically reaching USD 1.5–2.0 billion. Japan continues to dominate supply, accounting for roughly 90% of purchases, while 80–90% of imported vehicles are used. The decline likely reflects softer purchasing power and the growing challenges of driving in Ulaanbaatar, including congestion and operating costs, which may temper near-term demand for dealers, financiers, and logistics providers.
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Diplomacy
Russian Inspectors Block Attempted Illegal Export of Half-Ton of Dried Fruits at Kyakhta Checkpoint
Published: 2025-11-13
Russia’s Federal Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance Service (Rosselkhoznadzor) said its inspectors at the Kyakhta border checkpoint intercepted an attempted illegal export of roughly half a ton of dried fruits by Mongolian nationals on November 7, 2025. The consignment included 232 kg of dried apricots, 110 kg of raisins, and 130 kg of prunes lacking required phytosanitary certificates. Authorities determined the shipment violated federal quarantine regulations and issued three administrative protocols under Article 10.2 of Russia’s Administrative Offenses Code, subsequently returning the entire load to Mongolia. The action underscores strict enforcement of cross-border plant quarantine rules that can disrupt small-scale trade flows. Businesses moving agricultural goods through Russia’s border points should expect documentation checks to remain stringent and plan for potential delays or returns if certification is incomplete.
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Infrastructure
Ulaanbaatar Advances Tram PPP to Link Zunjin and Yarmag with City Center
Published: 2025-11-13
Ulaanbaatar’s city administration is moving ahead with a public–private partnership (PPP) to introduce a tram system connecting the Zunjin Trade Center and Yarmag to the city center, part of a broader plan to diversify public transport and ease congestion. Following a market-sounding invitation from September 29 to October 29 under PPP Law Article 22.4, four proposals were submitted by private participants. Authorities are conducting a full feasibility and value-for-money assessment to confirm benefits for the state and taxpayers, including leveraging private capital, technology, and management to accelerate delivery and improve quality. A formal tender will be announced after the complete analysis. If realized, the tram would mark a significant step toward modern mass transit in the capital, complementing bus reforms and potentially reshaping commuting patterns on key east–west and southwest corridors.
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Tuur Highway Project Advances with Earthworks and Temporary Access Road
Published: 2025-11-13
Work on Ulaanbaatar’s 32 km, six-lane Tuur Highway is progressing with embankment stripping and a temporary road now underway. The corridor will run from the Ulaanbaatar–Nalaikh road to the western provinces’ “safety roundabout,” featuring eight grade-separated interchanges, 13 bridge sites totaling 9.8 km, and four tunnels spanning 190 meters. The longest structure—7.2 km between Marshal and Zaisan bridges—will be built outside the Tuul River eco-buffer. About 130 personnel and 30-plus machines are active on site. Precast girder production areas are being prepared, with 20,000 m² leveled of a planned 70,000 m² facility. Traffic modeling projects load reductions on key arterials: Naadamchdyn Ave (15–30%), Peace Ave (11–25%), Chinggis Ave (10–25%), and Songsgoloon St (5–17%), alongside a 13.5% increase in average speeds, easing congestion and mitigating noise and air pollution.
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Russia’s Rosatom, Mon-Atom Discuss Small Modular Reactor Option for New Kharkhorum City
Published: 2025-11-13
Mon-Atom and Russia’s Rosatom convened a seminar in Ulaanbaatar to examine cooperation and feasibility for a small modular nuclear power plant (SMR) serving the planned New Kharkhorum city. The session brought together company representatives, academics, and the city council to assess siting, environmental impacts, and broader socio-economic benefits, with emphasis on nuclear’s low-carbon profile and non-power applications. Russia’s ambassador highlighted a long-standing bilateral framework for peaceful nuclear cooperation dating back 25 years. Mon-Atom said no official decision or feasibility study has begun, framing discussions as preliminary. Rosatom touted its RITM-200 reactor, proven on Arctic icebreakers, and training-to-operations support that could bolster energy security and price predictability if pursued.
“We discussed how to implement the intergovernmental agreement on peaceful nuclear energy and explored cooperation far beyond just a power plant.” - Ambassador A. N. Yevsikov (unuudur.mn)
“We are offering projects from workforce training through all operational stages; deployment could strengthen energy security and price predictability.” - Sergei I. Demin, Rosatom representative in Mongolia (unuudur.mn)
“There is no official decision yet and we have not entered feasibility stages; this seminar was to hear experts’ input.” - D. Dalaijargal, CEO of Mon-Atom (unuudur.mn)
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Published: 2025-11-13
Thermal Power Plant IV (DCS-4), the largest source of power and heat in Mongolia, reports it is prepared for winter after completing major overhauls between March 15 and October 15, 2025. The plant currently supplies 55% of Ulaanbaatar’s heat and 58% of the Central Energy System’s electricity, operating eight boilers and seven turbines near full capacity, and heating 12,700 tons of water daily. It has stockpiled 353,000 tons of coal—above its 260,000-ton yard capacity and roughly 21 days of supply—to hedge mining and logistics risks. Management says adding one boiler would raise electricity output and allow maintenance flexibility, enabling service for about 25,000 additional households. Pricing variations for end-users are attributed to time-of-use tariffs, with higher charges during evening peak hours.
“If we add one more boiler, we can ensure heat and electricity for about 25,000 more households and create conditions to take equipment offline for proper maintenance.” - P. Boldbaatar, Chief Engineer, DCS-4 (isee.mn)
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Ulaanbaatar’s 4.2 km cable car aims to launch passenger service in November 2026
Published: 2025-11-13
Ulaanbaatar advanced construction of its Yarmag–Kharkhorin urban cable car, designed to ease west and south corridor congestion, with 48% of works completed and the tallest (42 m) of 19 pylons installed. The 4.2 km line will have two stations and target a November 2026 opening following cable stringing in June 2026 and cabin installation in August 2026. City officials project peak capacity of about 2,400 passengers per hour, helping redistribute heavy flows from Yarmag and the airport corridor, where inbound traffic reaches roughly 90,000 vehicles during peak periods. The system is financed by a highly concessional French loan (0.0076% interest, 40-year term). Authorities plan operational training, establish a dedicated operator, and integrate the line with planned metro on Peace Avenue and tram on Naadamchdyn Avenue. A feasibility study is underway for a second line from east of Marshal Bridge to the Shangri-La area via a single-stop segment by IMart.
“By next June we will string the steel cables, install all cabins in August, and begin carrying passengers in November—one year from now—as a new mode of public transport for Ulaanbaatar.” - Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar (isee.mn)
“The French concessional loan carries an interest rate of 0.0076% over 40 years, so we aim to maximize the project’s benefits.” - Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar (isee.mn)
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Planner Launches ‘Temuulel’ Pilot to Curb Ulaanbaatar’s Overcrowding by Building Green Rural Townships
Published: 2025-11-13
Urban planning specialist and doctoral candidate J. Munkhzul warns that provincial towns are repeating Ulaanbaatar’s missteps—unplanned sprawl, ad‑hoc construction, and rising winter smog—driven by weak implementation of master plans. She proposes easing the capital’s congestion and pollution by developing “green” settlement zones in rural sums with modern utilities, renewable energy, and waste systems, and without coal or pit latrines. Her team’s “Temuulel” pilot in Ömnödölgör sum (Khentii) spans about 80 hectares, integrating housing, services, schools, light industry, and tourism under 15‑minute city principles, with over 30% green space and energy‑efficient buildings. The project includes end‑to‑end technical support and aims to attract skilled workers to the countryside. Munkhzul argues long-term plans exist but falter under political turnover and discretionary land permits by local governors.
“No matter how many roads or schools we add in the capital, it’s like forcing 30 liters of water into a 10‑liter container; the root cause must be addressed by developing the countryside.” - J. Munkhzul, urban planning specialist (unuudur.mn)
“Master plans keep getting approved, but decision-makers themselves violate them when issuing land and building permits.” - J. Munkhzul, urban planning specialist (unuudur.mn)
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Society
Nationwide Firearm Audit Runs Through Dec 4 with Penalties for Noncompliance
Published: 2025-11-13
Police are conducting a nationwide inspection and inventory of firearms and equivalent devices from November 4 to December 4, requiring individuals and legal entities to present registered weapons to local police to verify lawful ownership. Authorities also encourage owners of unregistered or source-unknown firearms to register them during this window, stating they will not face fines if they do so within the campaign period. Last year, Mongolia recorded 50,703 registered firearms, with 94% (47,781) accounted for in the audit, including 32,559 in the provinces and 15,222 in Ulaanbaatar. Failure to comply this year may trigger penalties under the Law on Infringements: fines equivalent to 41 units for individuals and 400 units for legal entities for missing the audit or violating carry/transport rules. The initiative underscores tighter oversight of civilian firearms and compliance enforcement.
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Korean Public Offers Help After TV Feature on Mongolian Worker Who Lost Both Arms in 2019 Factory Accident
Published: 2025-11-13
A South Korean current affairs program, Hankyoreh 21, profiled a 37-year-old Mongolian migrant who lost both arms after a high-voltage shock while installing solar panels in December 2019. Despite multiple surgeries, the employer has refused to pay more than 200 million won in court-acknowledged damages, reportedly stating it has no funds. The worker has undergone six years of burn treatment and relied on donations, with renewed public support following the broadcast. An 84-year-old citizen, Lee Hyun-ho, was among those who reached out with gifts and small cash support. The individual currently holds a temporary G-1 visa, and the National Assembly may consider assistance as his legal and immigration challenges continue. “We don’t have money,” the company told media, declining to compensate the more than 200 million won in damages (N news).
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Child Rights Complaints Reach 6,507 in First 10 Months, Majority Involve Physical Harm or Neglect
Published: 2025-11-13
Mongolia’s Prosecutor’s Office reports 6,507 complaints related to child rights violations were registered in the first ten months of 2025, underscoring persistent risks to children’s safety despite legal protections. Ulaanbaatar accounted for 4,369 cases, with 2,138 in the provinces. Notably, 96.5% (6,285 cases) fell under violations involving physical harm, neglect, intoxication, or violence in a child’s presence, as defined by Article 6.20.7 of the Law on Infringements. Case outcomes indicate an active enforcement posture: authorities forwarded 2,773 cases (42.6%) to court seeking penalties or coercive measures, issued penalties in 3,340 cases (51.3%), opened 73 criminal inquiries (1.1%), and initiated criminal prosecutions in 8 cases (0.1%). The data highlights enforcement concentration in the capital and the predominance of domestic-context abuses, signaling continued demand for prevention and social services.
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Police Warn of Rising Scams Exploiting Personal Data; Multiple Victims Report Large Losses
Published: 2025-11-13
Mongolia’s National Police Agency (CЕG) cautioned that sharing personal data and bank accounts is fueling a surge in fraud, with 15–30 scam cases reported daily. Recent incidents include transfers tied to claims of funds sent by a peacekeeping relative (₮16.96 million), loans taken via a mobile app using stolen identity (₮17 million), an investment in an under-construction building (₮380 million), and a “loan clearance” advertisement leading to a ₮35 million loss. Authorities describe a pattern of exploiting needs, beliefs, and trust—promising impossible outcomes and fabricating opportunities. Police urged the public to withhold personal information, regularly change passwords on digital platforms, and avoid transactions based on unverified ads. The warning underscores persistent digital and social-engineering risks in Mongolia’s consumer finance environment.
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Authorities Warn of Online Scams Tied to ‘Nogoon Nuur 1008 Households’ Housing Project
Published: 2025-11-13
Mongolia’s Ministry of Urban Development, Construction and Housing has warned the public about online scams falsely offering inclusion, sales, or lease-to-own contracts in the “Nogoon Nuur 1008 households” apartment project in Sukhbaatar District. The Chinese grant-funded redevelopment (2022–2025) is nearing completion and is designed to rehouse 756 families whose land was cleared, with 252 units designated for lease-to-own through official channels. Unverified posts are soliciting down payments and pre-orders, prompting the ministry to caution residents not to transfer money or sign unauthorized agreements. The project targets ger-area redevelopment in the Nogoon Nuur zone, but allocation is limited and determined by the authorities, not private intermediaries. No official sale has been announced beyond the resettlement plan and structured leasing component. The ministry urges due diligence and reliance on official communications to avoid fraud.
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Environment
Cold Front to Bring Snow, Blowing Snow and Strong Winds Across Much of the Country
Published: 2025-11-13
Mongolia’s weather service warns of a rapid shift to winter conditions through November 16, with snow and blowing snow spreading from western to central and northern provinces and strong winds across the south. Tonight, snow squalls are expected in eastern Uvs and western and northern Zavkhan; on November 14, systems expand into eastern Zavkhan, southern Khuvsgul, southern Bulgan, Orkhon, Darkhan-Uul, and Selenge. Gusts of 18–24 m/s are forecast in Govi-Altai, southern Bayankhongor, eastern and southern Uvurkhangai, Dundgovi, and western Umnugovi, disrupting road conditions and visibility. Ulaanbaatar remains near 0 to –2°C today with light winds, turning colder with evening snow on November 14. Field measurements show 68% of territory has snow cover, reaching up to 22 cm in parts of Darkhan-Uul and Selenge—an indicator that early-season travel and logistics may face mounting constraints as temperatures fall sharply after November 14.
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Insulation and Ventilation Kits Delivered to 1,391 Ger-Area Households to Cut Pollution
Published: 2025-11-13
Ulaanbaatar City Hall and UNICEF delivered insulation and ventilation packages to 1,391 households in Chingeltei and Bayangol districts under the “Warm Home, Healthy Future” project, aimed at improving living conditions in ger areas and reducing air pollution. The initiative builds on UNICEF’s CHIPs (insulation, heating, ventilation) solution, rolled out since 2019 across 13 provinces and three districts, now used by over 5,000 households. CHIPs have also been installed in 42 ger classrooms at 25 kindergartens in Bayanzurkh, Bayankhongor, Govi-Altai, and Sukhbaatar, contributing to lower indoor air pollution, reduced respiratory illness among young children, and fewer household burn incidents. A review workshop shared lessons and feedback to refine implementation.
“Thanks to this package, thousands of households and children in ger kindergartens can live and grow in coal-free, safe environments.” - Evariste Kouassi-Komlan, UNICEF Representative (montsame.mn)
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City Team Upgrades Faulty Wall Stove as Officials Stress Regular Chimney Cleaning
Published: 2025-11-13
Ulaanbaatar’s Deputy Mayor A. Amartuvshin visited Bayanzurkh District’s 21st khoroo, where the municipal Solid Fuel Users Service Center replaced a poorly built wall stove in a household with a disabled resident and cleaned the chimney to mitigate carbon monoxide risks. The center monitors alerts from CO detectors and offers chimney sweeping, stove maintenance, and reconstruction of non‑standard wall stoves. An engineer emphasized that metal pipe chimneys, commonly used for cost reasons, can frost and clog in winter, raising poisoning risks, and advised brick chimneys or improved insulation for metal flues, along with routine soot removal every 1–3 weeks depending on stove type.
“This home’s wall stove was improperly built and worn, creating carbon monoxide risk when firing. We cleaned the chimney, dismantled the stove, and rebuilt it. Households should regularly sweep their stoves and chimneys.” - B. Ulziibayar, household stove engineer at the Solid Fuel Users Service Center (gogo.mn)
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Innovation
Data Protection Lapses Flagged as Rights Commission Probes AI, CCTV and COVID-Era Records Use
Published: 2025-11-13
Mongolia’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) reported systemic weaknesses in personal data protection across 11 sectors after a three-year review, finding most organizations have policies that are either noncompliant or not enforced. Complaints include schools collecting sensitive health data via online forms, employers requesting family and asset details, and retailers sharing CCTV footage online. The NHRC warned that dense camera deployment in public and private spaces risks violating privacy, and it urged tighter internal controls and staff training. It also said COVID-19 vaccination and testing information gathered through the state’s “Gerege” system may have been repurposed, prompting inquiries to the Health Ministry and a call for government review. Sectoral incident tallies indicate widespread violations in finance, education, and health. Forthcoming NHRC briefings will cover social media policy, e-Mongolia’s rights assessment, and health-sector digitization risks.
“We are releasing this to remind data controllers and entities handling personal information what they must focus on going forward in the digital era.” - G. Narantuya, NHRC Commissioner (isee.mn)
“Some organizations fail to submit their annual breach records to the NHRC as required, which is concerning.” - S. Ganzorig, Head of Personal Data Protection Division, NHRC (news.mn)
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Health
Doctors Call Off Strike as Tripartite Deal Sets 75% Pay Rise Through 2026
Published: 2025-11-13
Mongolia’s health unions and the government signed an addendum to the 2024–2026 sectoral agreement, averting a nationwide strike by doctors and medical staff. Under the deal, base pay for health workers classified under TUEM, TUM, and TU scales will rise 30% from Jan 1, 2026, followed by six sequential 9% monthly increases from Aug through Dec 2026. Salaries are slated to reach MNT 3 million by end-2026 and MNT 3.5 million from Jan 1, 2027—amounting to a 75% increase within a year. The agreement follows months of union pressure since late August and replaces an earlier immediate strike plan. The staged hikes signal significant budget commitments ahead of the 2026 fiscal year and may help retention in a sector facing chronic staffing and morale issues. Unions framed the outcome as unprecedented for health sector wages.
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Health Workers Delay Nationwide Strike by One Day as Tripartite Talks Resume
Published: 2025-11-13
Mongolia’s health sector unions postponed a nationwide strike by 24 hours to continue tripartite negotiations with the Health, Finance, and Labor ministries. Union leader Ch. Narantuya said workers seek to lift base pay to MNT 3.5 million, noting no explicit wage increase was built into the 2026 budget. Proposals discussed range from an initial 15–30% rise to a phased plan totaling 75% in 2026, with hospitals operating normally during talks. Health Minister J. Chinburen outlined a government plan to raise salaries in three stages next year and reach MNT 3.5 million in 2027 if agreed.
“We agreed in principle to negotiate raising base salaries by 75% in 2026; therefore, we are delaying the strike by one day.” - Ch. Narantuya, head of the Health Workers’ Trade Union (news.mn)
“We proposed increasing health workers’ salaries by 30% from January 1, then 20% on October 1, and 25% on December 1, reaching MNT 3 million in 2026 and MNT 3.5 million in 2027.” - Health Minister J. Chinburen (unuudur.mn)
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Measles Cases Reach 13,633 as Hospitalizations Fall to 17; Children 10–14 Most Affected
Published: 2025-11-13
Mongolia’s National Center for Communicable Diseases reports 13,633 confirmed measles cases as of November 13, 2025, with 13,598 recoveries and 11 deaths. Hospitalizations have declined to 17 patients, suggesting the outbreak’s acute phase may be easing. Children aged 10–14 account for the largest share of infections (5,106 cases), followed by 3,165 cases among children aged 0–4—underscoring continued risk for school-age and preschool groups. Health authorities urge residents to verify their measles vaccination status with local household or soum health centers and ensure records are updated in the electronic registry. Those unvaccinated or missing doses are advised to complete immunization to protect themselves and community transmission chains. For employers and schools, vigilance on vaccination documentation and rapid reporting of symptoms remains critical as public health services work to consolidate control over the outbreak.
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Published: 2025-11-13
Former National Cancer Center director M. Adilsaikhan rejected the portrayal of health workers as broadly complicit in alleged fraud at the Health Insurance Fund, after a senior government official said fake claims had strained the fund. He suggested many irregularities could stem from data-entry errors but urged law enforcement to investigate any doctor suspected of fabricating claims. He also argued the health sector’s budget is insufficient, urging an increase to 6% of GDP from roughly 3% to improve service quality and access, citing prior policy directions under former Health Minister T. Munkhsaikhan. Adilsaikhan noted a government resolution designating 2027 as the “Year of Supporting Health,” which he said is backed by analysis rather than ad hoc decision-making.
“It is truly regrettable that our health professionals are now seen as if they are all thieves. I believe this is a registration error, and if any doctor forged claims, the legal system must establish the truth.” - M. Adilsaikhan, former NCC director (news.mn)
“We must raise the health sector budget to 6% of GDP to deliver quality, accessible services; the current level barely reaches 3%.” - M. Adilsaikhan, former NCC director (news.mn)
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