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Mongolia Daily: Parliament probes Halzan Buregtei, Ulaanbaatar expands briquettes, and hands over 180 water kiosks

MongoliaDaily

Politics

Government Backs OT Negotiation Support Team as Parliamentarians Push to Revisit Loan Terms and Governance

Published: 2025-09-23

A sub-working group has been formed under the Ministry of Industry and Minerals to support the Cabinet’s negotiations with Oyu Tolgoi (OT) investors and deliver a finalized proposal to the government. The agenda includes revising OT’s Management Services Agreement, strengthening corporate governance, commissioning an independent audit of underground mine financing and costs, and addressing additional debt, energy, water, and ESG issues. In parallel, a temporary parliamentary oversight committee reports intensified reviews and signals a window to amend shareholder loan terms by year-end 2025, citing higher-than-market interest burdens and minority influence on the board. These steps indicate coordinated executive–legislative pressure to rebalance project economics and governance without undermining operations.

“We must use the opportunity to revisit the OT agreement and reduce loan interest by the December 31, 2025 review date.” - MP S. Zulpkhar (urug.mn)

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Parliament Debates Presidential Veto on “Gold-3” Campaign as Constitutional Court Ruling Also Tableled

Published: 2025-09-23

Parliament convened at 14:00 on Sept. 23 to take up President Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh’s partial veto of the July resolution launching the “Gold-3” campaign, alongside a Constitutional Court (Tsets) decision concerning provisions of the Criminal Procedure Code. The Economic Standing Committee earlier advised against accepting the veto, with 95% of attending members opposing it. The dispute centers on clauses making some laws effective from the day of passage, which the President argues infringes his veto authority and raises constitutional issues affecting ongoing budget deliberations. Debate grew pointed over parliamentary procedure and legal risk.

“The July 9 resolution took effect the same day, encroaching on the President’s veto power; I find grounds to accept this veto.” - MP B. Enkhbayar (itoim.mn)

“Laws that took effect upon passage are not unconstitutional; 18 such laws were involved on July 9.” - B. Baasandorj, Secretary-General of Parliament (itoim.mn)

Coverage:

Economy

Rare Earth Oversight Hearing Spotlights Halzan Buregtei as Government Courts Investment and Opens Korea Partnership

Published: 2025-09-23

Parliament opened a general oversight hearing on the Halzan Buregtei rare earths deposit, weighing environmental and radiation risks as the government pitches Mongolia’s critical minerals to investors and advances a Korea-backed research center. Officials reiterated an estimated 3.1 million tonnes of rare earth oxides across six deposits, with Halzan Buregtei, Khotgor, Mushgia Khudag, and Lugin Gol prioritized for development. Processing remains the key bottleneck given complex, costly technologies and unresolved investment decisions. Authorities framed rare earths within intensifying global supply competition and China’s dominance of mining and processing.

“Mongolia has over one billion tonnes of ore and 3.1 million tonnes of rare earth oxides; technology, investment, and state support are needed to move deposits into production” - M. Mendbayar, Policy Planning Department Head, Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources (ikon.mn)

Local opposition at Halzan Buregtei centers on potential activation of radioactive elements and risks to the Great Lakes Basin. The government seeks to diversify beyond coal, deepen R&D with South Korea, and bring a new Ulaanbaatar research facility online by November.

Coverage:

Parliamentary Panel Backs Repeal of 2% Tax on Property Sales

Published: 2025-09-23

Mongolia’s Parliamentary Petitions Committee endorsed a public initiative to abolish the 2% tax on real estate sales, forwarding the matter for further review by the Budget and Petitions standing committees. The petition, initiated online by lawyer O. Bathuu, gathered 100,000 signatures, targeting the Personal Income Tax Law’s Article 21.2.1. Lawmakers urged clearer distinctions between primary residences and repeated speculative sales, with the Finance Ministry calling for detailed criteria and impact assessment. One MP framed the move as updating a legacy measure originally tied to property registration in the early 1990s. Another emphasized avoiding double taxation and exempting individuals selling their own homes, while requesting data on whether traders or residents dominate transactions.

“It is necessary to distinguish those selling repeatedly from those selling a home they have lived in for over three years.” - Representative, Ministry of Finance (unuudur.mn)

“About 100,000 signatories represent roughly 5% of adults; we must decide in favor of citizens.” - MP D. Regdel (unuudur.mn)

“Individuals selling their own apartment should be exempt; the ministry must study the tax impact and who is trading—brokers or residents.” - MP S. Zamira (unuudur.mn)

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Erdenes Tavantolgoi Sells 96,000 Tons of Coal via MSE, Raising USD 6.3 Million

Published: 2025-09-23

State-run Erdenes Tavantolgoi JSC executed three successful transactions on the Mongolian Stock Exchange on September 22, selling a total of 96,000 tons of coal worth USD 6.3 million. The deals comprised five lots (32,000 tons) of thermal coal valued at USD 1.3 million, five lots (32,000 tons) of washed semi-soft coking coal worth USD 2.9 million, and five lots (32,000 tons) of 1/3 coking coal totaling USD 2.1 million. The structured, multi-lot sale highlights the company’s ongoing use of exchange-based channels to market differentiated coal products, supporting price transparency and liquidity. For international buyers and logistics planners, the breakdown by coal type indicates continued diversification of export offerings through formal trading platforms, which may influence contract benchmarks and shipping schedules in the fourth quarter.

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Development Bank Signs MoU with Korea Investment Securities at Seoul Critical Minerals Forum

Published: 2025-09-23

Mongolia’s Development Bank leadership joined the “Mongolia–Korea Critical Minerals and Mining Investment Forum 2025” in Seoul on September 22, focusing on supply chain cooperation and new investment channels. B. Anar, head of Investment Policy at the Ministry of Economy and Development and chair of the bank’s board, presented on national trade and investment policy and the current environment. First Deputy CEO Kh. Erdenebaatar outlined the bank’s role in economic cooperation and emphasized opportunities to collaborate with Korean institutions. The Development Bank signed a memorandum of understanding with Korea Investment Securities to explore lower-cost funding for projects in Mongolia—positioned to support financing for priority mining and critical minerals initiatives and potentially broaden access to Korean capital markets for Mongolian projects.

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Securities Trading Value Falls 33% Year-on-Year in First Eight Months as Primary Deals Shrink

Published: 2025-09-23

Mongolia’s securities market recorded MNT 595.5 billion in turnover in January–August 2025, down 33.3% (MNT 297.4 billion) from a year earlier, according to the National Statistics Office. Primary market transactions accounted for 41.5% (MNT 247 billion) and secondary for 58.5% (MNT 348.5 billion). By instruments, asset-backed securities led with 42.5% of turnover, followed by equities (21.6%), corporate bonds (21.0%), government bonds (14.2%), and fund units (0.8%). August turnover reached MNT 76.9 billion—up 33.4% year-on-year but down 13.1% from July. The TOP-20 average index slipped to 48,814.3, declining both year-on-year and month-on-month. Market capitalization stood at MNT 12.3 trillion in August, marginally lower year-on-year but 0.5% higher than July, suggesting tentative stabilization despite softer liquidity.

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Diplomacy

Presidents Khurelsukh and Milatović Discuss Expanding Ties, Plan Visit and 20th Anniversary Events

Published: 2025-09-23

President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh met Montenegro’s President Jakov Milatović on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, agreeing to broaden cooperation across politics, trade, tourism, education, and culture. The two leaders discussed marking the 20th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026 with extensive joint events and signaled intent to coordinate on climate action and combating desertification within multilateral frameworks. Milatović expressed interest in an official visit to Mongolia, with dates to be set through diplomatic channels. The meeting underscores Mongolia’s continued outreach to smaller European partners to diversify relationships beyond major powers, while offering Montenegro a foothold for deeper engagement in Northeast Asia and potential cooperation in green and tourism sectors.

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Seoul and Ulaanbaatar Advance Economic Partnership Talks, Rare Metals Center Set to Open

Published: 2025-09-23

South Korea’s Prime Minister Kim Min-seok met Mongolia’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Development, N. Uchral, in Seoul to accelerate cooperation on supply chains, trade, health, and the environment. The sides signaled progress toward an Economic Partnership Agreement that would liberalize over 90% of tariff lines, paired with efforts to align sanitary and phytosanitary standards and expand lab capacity. A Korea–Mongolia rare metals cooperation center is slated to open next month to bolster critical minerals collaboration, including exploration and a joint research hub. Discussions included expanding concessional support to social infrastructure such as a second National Cancer Center. Mongolia is seeking tariff inclusion for key exports like cashmere and meat to improve competitiveness.

“We expect tangible progress soon on the economic partnership negotiations and see the rare metals center playing a key role in supply-chain cooperation.” - Prime Minister Kim Min-seok (montsame.mn)

“We welcome deeper cooperation with South Korea in critical minerals, investment, and people-to-people exchange.” - First Deputy Prime Minister N. Uchral (montsame.mn)

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Presidents Khurelsukh and Stubb Advance Finland–Mongolia Ties with Focus on Education and Green Energy

Published: 2025-09-23

President U. Khurelsukh met Finnish President Alexander Stubb on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, agreeing to sustain momentum in high-level exchanges and broaden cooperation. Stubb invited Khurelsukh to visit Finland, while both sides highlighted opportunities in trade, education, environmental protection, and renewable energy. Discussions included expanding placements for Mongolian students at Finnish universities through the “Ilgeelt–2100” scholarship program, aligning with Mongolia’s push to build human capital in technology and sustainability. The leaders also reaffirmed coordination within the UN and other multilateral forums. The prospective presidential visit could catalyze sectoral projects and academic links, leveraging Finland’s expertise in clean tech and education to support Mongolia’s diversification goals.

“I invite the President of Mongolia to visit Finland.” - President Alexander Stubb (montsame.mn)

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Infrastructure

Ulaanbaatar Hands Over 180 Fully Automated Ger-Area Water Kiosks to USUG Under MCC Compact

Published: 2025-09-23

Ulaanbaatar upgraded and officially transferred 180 pipe-fed water kiosks in ger districts to the Water Supply and Sewerage Authority (USUG), expanding 24/7 access and integrating them into a centralized control system that now covers 331 kiosks citywide. Funded by the $462 million Mongolia Water Compact (US $350m MCC grant; $111.76m GoM), the project modernized electrical systems, piping, safety, and software, and enabled digital payments via cards and mobile apps. Twenty-one truck-refilling kiosks were also automated, improving emergency response and water delivery logistics. USUG reports operational losses per liter are narrowing as kiosks connect to the network and run continuously. The handover precedes major milestones: commissioning the Advanced Water Purification Plant and the Wastewater Recycling Plant by 2026.

“Water is our future — ensuring clean, reliable supply strengthens both public health and long-term economic growth.” - U.S. Ambassador Richard Buangan (ikon.mn)

“These smart kiosks let residents draw water anytime while reducing USUG’s costs — a tangible result of the Water Compact.” - MP Kh. Gankhuyag (ikon.mn)

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Ulaanbaatar Fast-Tracks Park Upgrades and Temporary Convention Hub for 2026 UN Desertification Summit

Published: 2025-09-23

Ulaanbaatar will host the UNCCD COP17 from August 17–28, 2026 at the National Amusement Park, requiring a UN-standard temporary convention facility for up to 5,000 participants and city-led infrastructure works. Preparations include 3.2 km of water and sewer lines (70–80% complete), a 450-car parking area, and 4 km of access roads, with final paving slated for April 2026. Landscaping and utilities will be developed across 22–28 hectares directly south of the Shinee Zuun Ail shopping center, enabling future large-scale events. Officials emphasized accelerated timelines and compliance with UN requirements.

“This summit is several times larger in scope than ASEM 2016; organizing to UN standards is a major test for us.” - Kh. Nyambaatar, Ulaanbaatar Mayor (ikon.mn)

“We plan to finish utility works within two weeks, ahead of the November 1 deadline, weather permitting.” - Ts. Torkhuu, Head of USUG water utility (ikon.mn)

“We will hand over the assembled temporary venue to the UN by July 15, 2026 for security takeover and event operations.” - B. Battulga, Head of COP17 Investments and Construction Agency (ikon.mn)

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Published: 2025-09-23

Ulaanbaatar and the World Bank report 57% progress on the Sustainable Roads and Transport Project, which upgrades two corridors and builds three new roads to relieve congestion and redistribute activity toward the Selbe subcenter. Works include comprehensive renewal of 2.8 km behind Önör khoroolol (35% complete, with parking for 86 cars, drainage, and paving underway) and a 5.6 km overhaul of Üildverchnii Evleliin Street (30% complete). New construction has begun on a 2.6 km road along the Selbe River (20% complete), slated to open by November 2026, while a 10.8 km connector from Yarmag behind Bogd Khan Mountain to the airport arterial is heading to tender in November, with construction expected from May 2026. Officials project central housing and service load will decline by 4.2% as functions shift to Selbe, easing pressure on core districts and improving east–west connectivity.

“Within the project, three new roads will be built. Work on the 2.6 km Selbe River road has started and is 20% complete, targeted for commissioning next November. The 10.8 km link from Yarmag behind Bogd Mountain to the airport highway will go to tender in November, with construction planned from May 2026.” - Kh. Bulgaa, Ulaanbaatar Sustainable Roads and Transport Project Coordinator (gogo.mn)

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Ulaanbaatar Plans 93 MW Gas-Fired Heating Plant for Denjiin Myanga Under PPP Financing

Published: 2025-09-23

Ulaanbaatar will tender a 93 MW gas-fired heating plant this year to serve Denjiin Myanga and parts of the 7th microdistrict, using a public–private partnership. The two-hectare site near the 1,008-unit apartment complex built with Chinese grant aid will be cleared for construction. The project is budgeted at about MNT 100 billion, with the city covering 20% and private partners financing the rest. City officials say the plant aligns with a broader strategy to add distributed heat sources and advance ger district redevelopment.

“The most pressing issue for housing and air pollution is heat supply… we are preparing to build CHP-5 and 10 distributed sources with the Energy Ministry.” - H. Nyambaatar, Ulaanbaatar Mayor (gogo.mn)

Additional projects slated from 2026 include stations in Dambadarjaa and west of Khan Hills, CHP-5, and Emeelt CHP, plus distributed units in Zaisan and Moringiin Davaa.

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Ulaanbaatar Approves 2025 Budget Revisions, Boosts Metro Project by ₮25.4 Billion

Published: 2025-09-23

Ulaanbaatar’s city council approved amendments to the 2025 budget after a delayed emergency session, reallocating funds to prioritize capital projects and public transport. The cross-year financing for the metro (high-capacity public transport) construction was increased by ₮25.4 billion, signaling continued commitment to the project’s buildout. Other allocations include new spending for road works (₮4 billion within-year), data center upgrades (₮4.8 billion), and restoring 2,750 CCTV cameras (₮512 million). The city also trimmed the equity of “NOSK” JSC by ₮35 billion and slightly increased the budget of the Unified Project Management Agency. The revised framework sets total 2025 expenditures at ₮5.6 trillion, with capital spending capped at ₮4.3 trillion and city investment programs at ₮1.7 trillion. Carryover funds of ₮263.7 billion from 2024–2025 will be utilized.

“We propose increasing the cross-year financing for the metro construction by ₮25.4 billion and adjusting several capital items accordingly.” - D. Ikhbayar, head of the MPP group in the City Council (ikon.mn)

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Energy Minister Flags Aging Infrastructure Costs, Defends Reform Progress

Published: 2025-09-23

Energy Minister B. Choijilsuren warned that Mongolia’s power infrastructure is suffering from severe failures due to equipment at end-of-life, estimating MNT 6–7 trillion is needed for repairs and upgrades, far exceeding the annual state capital investment of MNT 3.7 trillion reported in the budget. He pushed back against narratives that energy reforms have stalled, saying work is progressing but constrained by funding gaps and aging assets. The comments underscore the sector’s structural underinvestment and the likely need for alternative financing—such as public-private partnerships or tariff reform—to modernize the grid and reduce outage risks.

“Accidents and breakdowns with expired equipment are extremely serious and not dependent on human capacity. We need at least MNT 6–7 trillion to fix and improve these, while our annual budget investment is only MNT 3.7 trillion.” - B. Choijilsuren, Energy Minister (urug.mn)

“There’s a smear campaign as if energy reform has stopped, but work is moving forward.” - B. Choijilsuren, Energy Minister (urug.mn)

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Society

Ulaanbaatar Expands Briquette Sales to 373 Sites as ‘Sain’ Card Phase-Out Set for December 2025

Published: 2025-09-23

Ulaanbaatar now sells improved briquettes at 373 contracted outlets across eight districts, priced at MNT 3,750 per sack. Authorities say daily sales capacity reaches 5,000 tonnes (about 200 sacks per outlet). Distribution uses the Hotula mobile app and the legacy “Sain” card for weekly allotments of seven sacks; developers plan to enable purchases via the QR code on citizens’ ID cards starting next month for those without the app. The city will begin selling semi-coke briquettes on October 1, broadening fuel options for ger-area households ahead of peak heating season. Officials announced a full retirement of the Sain card on December 15, 2025, urging users to transition to Hotula and to follow safety guidance on stove and chimney maintenance to reduce carbon monoxide risks.

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Teachers Plan Nationwide Rally to Demand 3.5 Million MNT Base Salary Increase

Published: 2025-09-23

Mongolia’s Education and Science Workers’ Trade Union will stage a nationwide peaceful rally on September 24 from 12:00–16:00 to demand raising teachers’ base salaries to 3.5 million MNT. Organizers expect 5,000–10,000 participants in Ulaanbaatar. Union leaders say they will deliver formal demands to the Speaker of Parliament and the Prime Minister, seeking acknowledgment in person and warning of escalated actions if no progress follows. The union distanced itself from social media claims of a September 27 strike, noting any further steps would proceed lawfully. The Education Minister has signaled fiscal limits for an immediate raise, citing a 3.3 trillion MNT budget need and favoring phased increases.

“We will present our demands to the Speaker and the Prime Minister and ask them to receive them officially in person.” - Z. Tsogtgerel, Chair, Education and Science Workers’ Trade Union (ikon.mn)

“Raising the base salary to 3.5 million MNT would require 3.3 trillion MNT, which cannot be sourced next year. A phased increase is possible.” - P. Naranbayar, Minister of Education and Science (news.mn)

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Weeklong Search for Missing Toddler in Khövsgöl Expands with Thermal Drones and Bore-Scope Cameras

Published: 2025-09-23

Emergency and security forces are in a seventh day of searching for a two-year-old boy missing from a vehicle near “Saikhan Mod,” 30 km northwest of Tariat soum center in Khövsgöl. The multi-agency operation—drawing personnel from National Emergency Management Agency units, military and border forces, police, and neighboring aimags—has deployed 151 staff with 24 vehicles, eight search dogs and horses. Night operations use thermal-imaging drones, while daytime efforts now include a “snake-eye” bore-scope camera to inspect animal burrows, rock crevices, and hollowed trees, a technique typically used in landslide rescues. Authorities have restructured searches into phased operations and are widening terrain checks with aerial and ground teams. No confirmed sightings have been reported. The prolonged effort signals sustained inter-agency capacity and growing use of specialized equipment for rural search-and-rescue in difficult terrain.

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MIAT Cancels Sept. 24 Ulaanbaatar–Hong Kong Roundtrip Flights as Typhoon Threatens Region

Published: 2025-09-23

MIAT, Mongolia’s national carrier, canceled its Sept. 24 scheduled roundtrip flights OM297/OM298 between Ulaanbaatar and Hong Kong, citing safety concerns as a powerful typhoon moves toward Hong Kong and Taiwan. The storm, described by regional authorities as the strongest in 2025 to hit northern Philippines on Sept. 22, has prompted evacuations and emergency measures, including halting rail and intercity transport and closing schools in affected areas. Hong Kong and Taiwan have declared readiness, anticipating heavy rain and disruptive winds. MIAT advised ticketed passengers to contact the point of purchase to change travel dates. Travelers should expect broader operational disruptions across carriers serving Hong Kong and Taiwan, with cascading effects on regional schedules and possible backlog once conditions improve.

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Cabinet Forms National Anti‑Violence Committee, Orders Cross‑Sector Prevention Plan

Published: 2025-09-23

A new National Committee to Combat and Prevent Violence held its first meeting, tasked with coordinating cross‑sector actions and proposing legal and policy improvements. Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar emphasized that prevention must involve health, culture, sports, and education, not only justice and policing, and instructed the committee—led by Justice and Home Affairs Minister L. Munkhbaatar—to draft an integrated prevention and response plan. Presentations covered technology‑facilitated gender‑based violence, domestic violence crime trends, child protection services, education‑sector curriculum gaps, and health‑sector response measures. The government will synthesize over 30 studies conducted since the 2017 domestic violence law to inform next steps, signaling potential updates to curricula for family and sexual education, expanded victim services, and strengthened interagency protocols.

“Preventing violence is not only a matter for justice, family affairs, and police; health, culture, sports, and education must now focus on it, and responses should be science‑based and results‑driven with participation across sectors.” - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (news.mn)

Coverage:

Environment

Parliament Opens Oversight Hearing on Halzan Buregtei Rare-Earth Project, Spotlighting Environmental Risks and Community Concerns

Published: 2025-09-23

Parliament’s Standing Committees on Environment and Economy opened a general oversight hearing on the Halzan Buregtei rare-earth deposit in Khovd’s Myangad district, examining licensing, environmental risk, and social impacts. Officials outlined Mongolia’s rare-earth ambitions and reserves, while the Environment Ministry said the project’s EIA was returned in 2023 for inadequate baseline data and impact analysis. Technical briefs indicated an open-pit plan with complex processing and chemical use, requiring rigorous safeguards. Residents cited rising livestock birth defects and wildlife decline, urging license cancellation and independent testing. Industry groups pressed for evidence-based decisions and operational certainty for compliant investors. Next steps include further public testimony and potential directives to ministries following consolidated findings.

“We need independent, multi-lab environmental studies and to let compliant investors operate within the law.” - G. Erdenetuya, CEO, Mongolian National Mining Association (ikon.mn)

“There is no evidence proving the birth defects were caused by that specific factor.” - Dr. D. Lkhamsaizmaa, senior researcher, Institute of Veterinary Medicine (urug.mn)

“Since activities began at Halzan Buregtei, we’ve seen fetal abnormalities and wildlife disappear.” - Herder Ch. Altangadas, Myangad soum (gogo.mn)

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Parliamentary Hearing Probes “Kh alzan Buregtei” Rare Earths Project, Balancing Economic Promise and Radiation Oversight

Published: 2025-09-23

Parliament held a general oversight hearing to scrutinize the “Khalzan Buregtei” rare earths project’s environmental and health risks alongside its economic potential. Scientists emphasized processing complexity and the need for strict monitoring of uranium and thorium in concentrates and tailings, though studies indicate low uranium content at the site. Project leaders said activities remain at the exploration stage under international standards, while policymakers debated how to enable “strategic minerals” development within a clearer legal framework and local engagement. Experts argued rare earths are critical inputs for high-tech supply chains and could diversify exports if safeguards and standards are enforced.

“If we do not develop our rare earths, we will fall behind global progress.” - MP B. Bat-Erdene (urug.mn)

“Mongolia has not previously mined rare earth elements; today’s hearing helps explain potential environmental and health impacts.” - MP B. Bayarbaatar (urug.mn)

“Rare earths are not radioactive minerals; they emit low natural background radiation like many materials in the environment.” - A. Tsolmon, CEO of the “Khalzan Buregtei” project (itoim.mn)

“We must stand firm on extracting and exporting rare earths while maintaining environmental safeguards and standards.” - Dr. N. Tegshbayar, physicist (news.mn)

“Give space to specialists and hold them accountable; the state should support important mineral projects within a clear legal framework.” - MP B. Uyanga (ikon.mn)

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Semi-Coke Briquettes Roll Out on Oct 1 as Ulaanbaatar Plans PPP Plant Tender

Published: 2025-09-23

Ulaanbaatar will begin retailing imported semi-coke briquettes on October 1 while drawing down 40,000 tons of existing “midling” improved briquettes, with a total 350,000 tons to be sold through 400 points for the 2025–2026 heating season. City officials estimate households using seven bags of improved briquettes weekly could switch to four to five bags of semi-coke due to longer burn times. Authorities rebutted social media claims of excess soot, noting chimney sweeping underway is likely the source.

“Semi-coke briquettes have not yet been sold; distribution starts October 1. Current soot seen is from chimney cleaning, not the new fuel.” - A. Amartuvshin, Deputy Mayor for Social, Green Development and Air Quality (eagle.mn)

In parallel, the city will tender a public–private partnership project in October to build a domestic semi-coke (coal-chemical) plant, with site permits, unit-feasibility and technology studies completed. Officials say local production aligns with the Vision-2050 plan and could cut import reliance and support air quality gains, as household heating accounts for 55.6% of Ulaanbaatar’s pollution.

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Cold-Tolerant Rice Trial in Khovd Meets Yield Targets, Opening Path to Local Production

Published: 2025-09-23

A pilot rice cultivation in Bulgan soum, Khovd province, achieved projected yields of 6–8 tons per hectare after Korean cold-climate varieties were sown on 5.3 hectares in April, according to the Korea Program on International Agriculture (KOPIA) Mongolia Center. The output aligns with South Korea’s average yields, indicating agro-climatic compatibility and potential scalability via cluster farming. Government officials inspected the site operated by GIMEX LLC, whose director framed rice as both an import substitution and rural development lever.

“After testing Korea’s coldest-region varieties, we succeeded in growing rice suited to Mongolia. With validated cultivation, development via a cluster system is possible.” - Woo Myung-gyu, Director, KOPIA Mongolia (montsame.mn)

“Introducing suitable rice could replace 68,000 tons of imports—around US$50 million—create 5,000–8,000 jobs, and support rural growth.” - J. Ganhuyag, Director, GIMEX LLC (montsame.mn)

The Agriculture Ministry called the public–private and international collaboration a major contribution to food security.

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Air-Source Heat Pumps Deployed for 300 Homes in Chingeltei District Following Tax-Incentive Partnership

Published: 2025-09-23

Chingeltei District has begun installing air-source heat pumps for households that have insulated their traditional gers to certified standards, eliminating heat loss. The program aims to transition 300 homes away from coal or wood burning, cutting urban air pollution during the heating season. According to district authorities, the pumps consume roughly 3.6–3.8 times less electricity than conventional electric heaters, lowering operating costs for households. The rollout is financed through a tripartite agreement in which private firms channel 1% of taxable income—leveraging a provision in the Corporate Income Tax Law—toward air pollution reduction initiatives. This model links corporate social responsibility with targeted environmental outcomes and could be scaled if results are favorable in Ulaanbaatar’s ger districts, where winter smog poses persistent public health and energy-efficiency challenges.

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Unstable Weather Forecast Brings Wet Snow to Mountain Areas, Travel Disruptions Possible Sept 23–27

Published: 2025-09-23

Mongolia’s weather is set to remain unstable through September 23–27, with continued wet snow in mountainous regions and strong winds across steppe and desert areas. Over the weekend, parts of Zavkhan province saw significant precipitation, including 6–45 mm of rain and wet snow, with local snow depths reaching 26 cm and drifts up to 60 cm in passes and gullies. Zagastain Pass was temporarily closed due to icy conditions but reopened after emergency and transport authorities cleared the route. Meteorologists warn of ongoing rain across much of Arkhangai, Bulgan, southern Khuvsgul, northern Uvurkhangai, Tuv, and Khentii, creating slippery roads in higher elevations. Authorities advise postponing non-essential intercity travel, ensuring vehicle readiness, carrying fuel reserves and warm clothing, and keeping young children from herding during the cold snap.

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Innovation

Erdenes Mongol Expands South Korea Partnerships, Sending 500 Engineers to Chonbuk National University

Published: 2025-09-23

Erdenes Mongol and its subsidiaries signed multiple agreements in South Korea to deepen cooperation in critical minerals, exploration, mine rehabilitation, and talent development. Under the initiative, 500 Mongolian students will study engineering at Chonbuk National University—one of nine Korean universities specializing in mineral and engineering disciplines—with strengths in blasting research, exploration, extraction, beneficiation, and processing. A collaboration with KOMIR focuses on mine rehabilitation, while a memorandum with KIGAM targets critical mineral research. Erdenes Alt Resource, part of Erdenes Mongol, concluded a US$17 million silver concentrate supply contract with Samsung Group. Additionally, the Development Bank of Mongolia and Korea Investment & Securities (Asia) will seek lower-cost financing for projects in Mongolia. The package aims to upgrade Mongolia’s processing capacity, build an internationally trained engineering cohort, and accelerate market access for mineral outputs.

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Customs Streamlines Inspections with New Digital Rules, Cutting Steps by Up to 80%

Published: 2025-09-23

Mongolia’s Customs General Administration has implemented a revised “general procedure” for inspecting goods and vehicles at border crossings, effective from July 1, shifting many manual processes to digital platforms. The overhaul follows a government task force review led by Deputy PM and Economy Minister N. Uchral and aims to reduce bureaucratic friction while maintaining risk-based controls for sensitive items such as livestock, meat, plants, pharmaceuticals, and hazardous chemicals. Document intake, declaration validation, and inter-agency data exchange are now fully electronic, with time limits introduced for specific actions—vehicle checks are capped at one hour—intended to curb arbitrary delays that previously stretched to 5–10 days. According to Customs Legal Department head Ch. Tamir, inspection actions for road shipments have fallen from 55 to 7–8, and the broader 85-step workflow has been reduced by 70–80%.

“We digitized human-dependent operations and set clear time limits; vehicle inspections now take one hour, down from processes that sometimes dragged on for days.” - Ch. Tamir, Head of Legal Department, Customs General Administration (gogo.mn)

Authorities stress quarantine and safety laws remain fully in force, supported by tools such as detector dogs and smart gates. Nationwide, 19 customs offices and 45 permanent or temporary checkpoints operate under the new protocol, which will be monitored and refined as needed.

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Health

Three Fatalities Reported as 81 Seek Care for Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Ulaanbaatar Districts

Published: 2025-09-23

Mongolia’s National Center for Public Health reported 81 carbon monoxide poisoning cases and three deaths today across Ulaanbaatar’s Songinokhairkhan, Chingeltei, Bayanzürkh, Sükhbaatar, and Khan-Uul districts. Authorities said exposures affected 31 households, with fatalities occurring in two households. The spike coincides with the early heating season, when coal and stove use increases and ventilation issues typically drive higher poisoning risks. The pattern underscores persistent urban air quality and household safety challenges in ger districts, where traditional stoves and poorly ventilated dwellings are common. Businesses and organizations operating in affected districts should be aware of potential disruptions from emergency responses and consider reinforcing workplace and staff housing safety protocols, including installing CO detectors, ensuring chimney maintenance, and disseminating prevention guidance aligned with public health advisories. No additional official guidance beyond the case figures was included in the reports.

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Preventive Screenings Halt as Health Insurance Fund Freezes Payments, Hospitals Report Supply Shortages

Published: 2025-09-23

Mongolia’s Health Insurance Fund-financed nationwide preventive and early detection screenings were suspended from January 22 for an indefinite period, according to contracted hospitals. The Health Insurance General Office (HIGO) has curtailed reimbursements since mid-2024 under performance-based financing, with providers now warning of halted services and basic supply shortages, including surgical sutures and gloves. The fund’s deficit has persisted for three years, with arrears reaching MNT 316.8 billion; despite a record 2025 allocation of MNT 2.293 trillion partly used to clear debts last month, officials project a new MNT 260 billion shortfall by year-end. HIGO stated that allocations were revised to “use the 2025 budget efficiently,” reducing funding by MNT 112 billion for state hospitals and MNT 130.8 billion for private facilities (unuudur.mn). The suspension disrupts risk-based population screenings at secondary and tertiary hospitals, with accountability for service gaps still unclear.

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Hospitals Probed for Falsifying Patient Records to Tap Health Insurance Funds

Published: 2025-09-23

Government officials reported preliminary findings that some hospitals allegedly inflated cases—such as recording common colds as pneumonia or unnecessarily admitting patients—to secure larger reimbursements from the Health Insurance Fund, contributing to mounting arrears. A task force led by Cabinet Secretariat Chief S. Byambatsogt is auditing the fund’s debts, compliance, and service delivery and plans to forward serious violations to law enforcement. Health Minister J. Chinburen previously warned that the fund accumulated MNT 142 billion in new debt in the first eight months of this year, with MNT 130 billion owed for medicines, pressuring suppliers and exposing uneven disbursements to facilities.

“Hospitals mark flu patients as pneumonia or push people taking tests into inpatient care, overspending the Health Insurance Fund—this is preliminarily established by inspections.” - S. Byambatsogt, Cabinet Secretariat Chief (news.mn)

“In the first eight months, another MNT 142 billion debt emerged—MNT 130 billion is for medicines—putting medicine supply at risk.” - J. Chinburen, Health Minister (news.mn)

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WHO Recommends Steep Tobacco and E‑Cigarette Excise Hikes by 2030, Coupled with Stronger Market Controls

Published: 2025-09-23

The World Health Organization advised a multi‑year overhaul of Mongolia’s tobacco taxation, urging annual excise increases to lift total tax to at least 75% of retail prices by 2030. For cigarettes, WHO proposes raising the specific excise to MNT 10,000 per 100 sticks in 2026 and adding MNT 10,000 each year to reach MNT 50,000 by 2030. For e‑cigarettes, WHO suggests introducing a liquid excise ramping to MNT 435.294 per ml by 2030 and a device excise rising to MNT 25,000 per unit. The package includes caps on nicotine content, packaging and refill limits, mandatory labeling, enhanced surveillance, and implementing the Illicit Trade Protocol with digital tracking. Modeling with Mongolia’s cross‑agency team projects cigarette prevalence down 15.3% and e‑cigarette use down 16% by 2030, while real excise revenues would rise by MNT 81 billion and MNT 148 billion, respectively. Cigarette affordability and low tax shares versus MIC averages underpin the push.

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Trauma Center Signs Training Pact with South Korea’s Dong-A University Hospital

Published: 2025-09-23

Mongolia’s National Trauma and Orthopedics Research Center (GSSҮT) signed a memorandum of understanding with Dong-A University Hospital in Busan to expand clinical training, introduce advanced diagnostics and treatments, and collaborate on stem cell research. The agreement envisions capacity building through placements and specialization programs in South Korea, joint seminars, and provision of related equipment and training. The partnership aims to elevate trauma and orthopedics care to international standards in Mongolia by transferring technology and clinical know-how. As an initial step, one GSSҮT physician will begin training at Dong-A University Hospital. The move signals a structured pathway for long-term skills development and clinical collaboration that could improve care quality and access across Mongolia’s health system.

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