Politics
Parliament Appoints Sanjaagiin Narantsogt as Central Bank Governor After Heated Debate on Policy and Governance
Published: 2025-12-18
Parliament approved Sanjaagiin Narantsogt as Governor of the Bank of Mongolia for a six-year term, replacing B. Lkhagvasuren. The secret ballot passed with about 80% support after Economic Affairs Committee endorsement. Lawmakers pressed Narantsogt on high lending rates, bank governance, and the central bank’s expanding headcount, while urging better alignment of fiscal and monetary policy and diversification of reserves. Narantsogt signaled a tighter, rules-based stance and resisted rate caps, arguing market discipline and coordinated policy are essential to deflate asset-price “bubbles” and stabilize inflation.
“Mongolia tripled its budget and money supply over the past decade while real growth stayed 5–6%. That gap drove inflation and asset bubbles; we must realign fiscal and monetary policy to restore stability.” - Sanjaagiin Narantsogt, incoming Governor (itoim.mn)
“I support opening to foreign commercial banks to bring cheaper funding and new technologies; state or strategic entrants require careful consideration of security risks.” - Sanjaagiin Narantsogt (ikon.mn)
Some MPs criticized late-stage staffing moves under the outgoing governor and called for greater transparency, audits, and formal staffing caps at the central bank. The new governor pledged focus on mortgage market rules, gold purchases to bolster reserves, and upholding central bank independence.
Coverage:
Opposition Moves to Oust Cabinet After 16 Deputy Ministers Appointed; PM Signals Openness to Legal Change
Published: 2025-12-18
Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar’s cabinet appointed 16 deputy ministers, reviving posts abolished after the 2024 elections as part of a cost-cutting push. The government argues it is scrapping 128 productivity and oversight manager positions at state-owned firms and dissolving 29 national councils to save an estimated MNT 41.6 billion annually, while deputy ministers’ pay would total about MNT 414 million. The Democratic Party (DP) caucus condemned the expanded structure and delivered a formal demand to dismiss the new deputies, warning it will submit a no-confidence motion if the decision stands. They also pressed for broader fiscal tightening amid reported budget shortfalls and private sector distress. Following their meeting, the prime minister indicated readiness to work with parliament on amending the Government Law provision that enables deputy minister posts.
“The law allows deputy ministers, and parliament can change it. Let’s work together to remove that clause from the Government Law.” - O. Tsogtgerel, DP caucus leader, relaying the prime minister’s stance (isee.mn)
“We cannot have a bloated government with 20 ministries and 40 ministers; deputy ministers must be abolished.” - O. Tsogtgerel, DP caucus leader (urug.mn)
“In this difficult period, adding officials erodes public trust in the state.” - B. Purevdorj, Deputy Speaker (news.mn)
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Parliament Takes Up Central Bank Governor Appointment as Election Chief Steps Down
Published: 2025-12-18
Parliament opened its Dec. 18 session with a nine-item agenda, moving first to consider the resignation of General Election Commission (GEC) chair P. Delgernaran. The State Structure Standing Committee backed relieving him at his request and named GEC member and secretary D. Davaa-Ochir as acting chair until a replacement is appointed. A final vote was postponed under parliamentary procedure. Lawmakers then proceeded to debate appointing S. Narantsogt as Governor of the Bank of Mongolia for a six-year term, following his hearing and endorsement by the Economic Standing Committee. The session recorded 81% attendance by 12:30, with several members on official travel, local duty, leave, or medical leave. The day also saw referral of new legislative drafts, including on social work and revising the chamber of commerce law, to relevant standing committees.
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Election Commission Chair P. Delgernaran Resigns; Secretary D. Davaa-Ochir Named Acting Head
Published: 2025-12-18
Parliament accepted the resignation of General Election Commission (GEC) Chair P. Delgernaran, who submitted his request on December 8 under Article 4.7 of the Law on the Central Election Authority. Lawmakers endorsed the motion via a secret ballot, with 71.8% of attending members in favor, according to the State News Agency. The State Structure Standing Committee had recommended approval on December 16. Until a new chair is appointed, GEC member and secretary D. Davaa-Ochir will serve as acting chair, ensuring continuity of election administration. The timing places leadership transition within the pre-election cycle, making operational stability and adherence to legal procedures critical for upcoming electoral preparations. No successor has been named, and the appointment process will be closely watched for its impact on election timelines and oversight.
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Anti-Corruption Agency Reviews 12 Complaints on Bureaucratic Delays and Ethics, Expands Prevention Efforts Nationwide
Published: 2025-12-18
Mongolia’s Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA) reported intensified prevention and public education efforts during December 8–12, including integrity plan reviews at the National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring, and transparency assessments at the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry and its affiliates, as well as the Zavkhan Governor’s Office. Marking UN International Anti-Corruption Day, the ACA selected eight winning entries from 150 student reels in a capital-wide contest and partnered with the National Statistics Office, Ministry of Energy, Darkhan-Uul and Khan-Uul Governor’s Offices to distribute anti-corruption content and posters across all 21 provinces. The ACA reviewed 12 complaints concerning bureaucratic hurdles and civil servant ethics from individuals and entities, and trained 1,274 officials in anti-corruption practices. These steps signal a continued emphasis on preventive measures and institutional transparency, with broad engagement across central and local government bodies and the education sector.
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Parliament Speaker N. Uchral Warns Ministers Struggling with Dual Roles to Step Aside
Published: 2025-12-18
During the afternoon session, Parliament conducted votes to dismiss the head of the General Election Commission and appoint a new Governor of the Bank of Mongolia, after a delay to reach quorum. Speaker and ruling party leader N. Uchral publicly questioned the absence of several ministers and urged cabinet members who are overwhelmed by juggling ministerial and parliamentary duties to reconsider their roles, underscoring the need for strong personal organization and capacity within the cabinet.
“If ministers are exhausted, overburdened, and unable to keep up, they should say so. This job is for those with high personal organization. There are many in the majority ready, capable, and eager to work,” - N. Uchral, Speaker of Parliament and MPP Chair (eagle.mn)
The remarks signal potential cabinet reshuffles within the ruling majority if performance concerns persist, following ongoing efforts to maintain parliamentary attendance and legislative pace.
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Economy
Fuel Supply Holds Steady While Demand Surges; Government Pushes Storage, Local Refining and Digital Oversight
Published: 2025-12-18
Mongolia’s fuel imports remain continuous in December, officials said, yet localized shortages persist as consumption outpaces logistics and storage capacity. Authorities project total fuel use nearing 3 million tonnes in 2025, with daily A-92 gasoline demand around 2,200 tonnes and diesel consumption rising alongside mining output—an industry now accounting for 62% of usage. Imports are 95% sourced from Russia and 5% from China, with 83,600 tonnes of A-92 and 134,244 tonnes of diesel ordered from Russia for December, plus additional volumes from China. Bottlenecks reflect limited storage—only about 20 firms maintain steady reserves despite 180 licensed entities—leading many importers to ship directly to mines. A new law enables state support for storage investments and contingency stocks, and the ministry plans a nationwide inventory monitoring system and incentives for EV adoption.
“We are all in a shortage situation… Imports are ongoing and will increase in coming days, but A-92 inflows are not yet sufficient.” - Minister G. Damdinyam (eagle.mn)
“There is no case of the ministry withholding fuel from importers; we are providing as much as possible.” - Minister G. Damdinyam (urug.mn)
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Government Submits Economic Freedom Bill to Parliament to Curb State Intervention and Attract FDI
Published: 2025-12-18
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Development J. Enkhbayar submitted an Economic Freedom Bill to Speaker N. Uchral, setting overarching principles for free enterprise, property protection, equal treatment of businesses, and fair competition. The draft would prohibit officials from restricting economic freedom without legal basis, unlawfully seizing property, conducting unmandated inspections, or disseminating defamatory information. The government frames the bill as a foundation to streamline regulation, reduce state burdens on the private sector, and ensure continuity in investment operations, which it says will bolster foreign direct investment and support stable growth. It also aligns with long- and medium-term development strategies and will not burden the budget. Related amendments to the Investment Law and the Childcare Service Law were submitted alongside the bill.
“We developed this bill to improve investor-friendly regulation, protect investors’ interests, and reduce state burdens on private business while creating a favorable business environment.” - J. Enkhbayar, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Development (gogo.mn)
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Tax Arrears Swell, Account Freezes Intensify as Business Leaders Urge Overhaul of VAT and Royalties
Published: 2025-12-18
Mongolia’s tax arrears have escalated to MNT 6.5 trillion, with roughly 321,000 individuals and firms in debt and over 21,800 accounts reportedly frozen—conditions business owners say are choking cashflow and risking shutdowns. Entrepreneurs describe sudden freezes, blanket inclusion of fluctuating VAT arrears, and rigid requirements to prepay 50% of liabilities before unfreezing accounts. Some also cite retroactive local tax assessments and high social insurance burdens that discourage formal hiring. Business chambers argue systemic flaws—especially accrual-based booking of VAT and the Mineral Royalty (AMNAT) against unreceived income—are generating “paper” debts as commodity prices swing. MCCI President B. Lkhagvajav called for urgent passage of stalled tax and social insurance reforms and consideration of tax amnesty after years of shocks.
“VAT and AMNAT are taken directly from revenue—even when the money hasn’t arrived—creating punitive, accumulated debts.” - B. Lkhagvajav, President, Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (itoim.mn)
“Freezing a company’s accounts stops its breathing; you can’t keep a business alive like that.” - B. Lkhagvajav, President, Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (itoim.mn)
“Freezing accounts without warning and sweeping funds in the name of social insurance is simply theft.” - E. Dulgunn, CEO, Spark Agency (itoim.mn)
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Food and Fuel Prices Edge Higher as December Averages Show Weekly and Monthly Increases
Published: 2025-12-18
National Statistics Office data show average prices for key staples rose 2.2% month-on-month and 0.6% week-on-week as of December 15. In Ulaanbaatar’s major outlets, average prices reached MNT 21,259/kg for beef, MNT 16,957/kg for mutton, and MNT 13,658/kg for goat meat. Flour (first grade) averaged MNT 2,493/kg, loose milk MNT 5,012/liter, sugar MNT 4,997/kg, rice MNT 4,951/kg, and domestic potatoes MNT 2,761/kg. AI-92 gasoline sold for MNT 2,590/liter at city stations. In provincial centers, mutton averaged MNT 16,957/kg and bone-in beef MNT 21,259/kg—up roughly MNT 1,100 from the prior week—while AI-92, A-80, and diesel were MNT 2,830, MNT 2,645, and MNT 3,415 per liter, respectively. The breadth of increases suggests continued pressure on household budgets and logistics costs heading into year-end.
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Fuel Queues Persist in Ulaanbaatar as Authorities Call Shortages “Temporary”
Published: 2025-12-18
Long lines at fuel stations continue in Ulaanbaatar two months after supply issues began, with drivers waiting late into the night and often settling for limited volumes or higher-octane fuel. Station staff report demand outstripping restocking cycles, while the government maintains there is no shortage. The Ministry of Energy and Heavy Industry’s Petroleum Policy Implementation Directorate said 83,000 tons of fuel are slated to arrive from Russia this month and attributed gaps to brief supply pauses during transit. On the ground, attendants describe inventories that “run out in a day,” and motorists say they circle multiple stations daily. The disconnect between official assurances and street-level scarcity is now disrupting commutes and emergency travel, raising concerns over winter resilience if incoming volumes face delays or logistical bottlenecks.
“Two days’ worth of supply is selling out in a single day. We’re just waiting for the next delivery truck now.” - Attendant at Petrovis station (gogo.mn)
“We will bring in 83,000 tons of fuel from Russia this month; it takes about a week for loaded fuel to arrive in Mongolia.” - Ch. Khishigdalai, Director, Petroleum Policy Implementation, Ministry of Energy and Heavy Industry (gogo.mn)
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Task Force Moves to Recover Assets from Failed Banks, Eyes Housing and Public Facilities Projects
Published: 2025-12-18
A government task force formed on August 22, 2025, is accelerating recovery of state funds trapped in failed lenders Capital Bank and Chinggis Khaan Bank, as well as non-performing loans at the Development Bank of Mongolia. The group reports MNT 22 billion recovered so far. Outstanding receivables include MNT 148.14 billion owed to the Social Insurance Fund and MNT 102 billion to the Health Insurance Fund. The Development Bank and its subsidiary seek MNT 45.7 billion from Chinggis Khaan Bank; MNT 12.6 billion was offset by 19 apartments in the “Khanhils” complex, most already sold. Authorities plan to complete and mobilize seized properties: 540 unfinished apartments at “Shine Yarmag” (MNT 65.3 billion) for health and education workers; nine “Gantig Villa” blocks (MNT 86.8 billion) for sale after completion; and office spaces for potential public use. A valuation dispute persists over a 120-bed hospital by Achlal Trade LLC, offered at MNT 88.9 billion but appraised at MNT 33.9 billion. “Tsement Shokhoi” LLC owes MNT 450.8 billion with no repayment yet. Legal actions continue on Development Bank’s bad loans, with court-enforced recovery expected after verdicts.
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Average Monthly Wage Recalculated at MNT 2.714 Million in Q3, Mining Leads Pay Scale
Published: 2025-12-18
Mongolia’s National Statistics Office reported the average monthly nominal wage at MNT 2.714 million for Q3 2025 under a revised methodology that is not directly comparable with previous years. The average base salary was MNT 2.456 million and the median MNT 2.312 million. Compared with Q2 2025, the nominal average decreased by MNT 26,800, which officials attribute to fewer education-sector employees filing social insurance during summer leave. Mining remains the highest-paid sector at MNT 4.9 million—about 79.5% above the national average—while accommodation and food services lag at MNT 1.8 million, or 32.6% below average. By pay bands, 38.4% of insured workers earn MNT 1.5–3.0 million; 9.1% earn up to MNT 792,000. Ulaanbaatar and the Central region exceed the average by 1.7–5.1%, whereas Western, Eastern, and Khangai regions are 3–18.3% lower. State-owned and joint-stock entities pay above average; most other entities fall below.
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Budget Revenues Slip 0.6% as Tax Take Weakens; Fiscal Deficit Widens Over 11 Months
Published: 2025-12-18
Mongolia’s consolidated budget revenue and grants reached MNT 27.6 trillion in January–November, down 0.6% year-on-year (MNT 171.5 billion), according to preliminary data from the National Statistics Office (NSO). Structural pressure intensified as cyclically adjusted (balanced) revenue fell to MNT 25.6 trillion, a decline of about MNT 472 billion, while total expenditure and net lending rose to MNT 27.4 trillion, resulting in a balanced deficit of MNT 1.8 trillion. Tax revenues dropped 3.4% to MNT 23.5 trillion, driven by lower income tax (-MNT 428.2 billion) and mineral royalty receipts (-MNT 1.4 trillion), underscoring commodity-related and corporate profit softness. Offsetting gains came from social insurance (+MNT 769.9 billion) and VAT (+MNT 231.5 billion). Local budgets also deteriorated: revenues hit MNT 6.6 trillion but net lending exceeded MNT 6.7 trillion, leaving a MNT 113.9 billion deficit. The figures point to tightening fiscal space heading into year-end planning.
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Parliament Receives Overhaul Bill for Chamber of Commerce and Industry Law
Published: 2025-12-18
Lawmakers D. Enkhtuvshin and Kh. Ganhuyag submitted a comprehensive revision of the Law on the Chamber of Commerce and Industry to Speaker N. Uchral on December 17. The 1995 statute would be updated to clarify structure, functions, and financial independence, and to align with Mongolia’s legal drafting standards and international practices. The proposal envisions sector-based chambers operating in each province and in Ulaanbaatar, replacing purely regional organization, to better represent diverse business activities. Since 1995, total production rose from MNT 6.6 trillion to MNT 28.5 trillion and active private firms increased from 7,800 to 79,400, underscoring the private sector’s expanded role. The drafters say the reform aims to strengthen advocacy, improve policy input, and reflect business concentration and capacity constraints in finance, technology, and human resources. No implementation costs or timelines were disclosed beyond completed impact assessments.
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Government Submits 2026–2028 Plan to Float and Restructure State-Owned Firms
Published: 2025-12-18
Cabinet Chief of Staff S. Byambatsogt submitted to Parliament Speaker N. Uchral a draft resolution setting the 2026–2028 roadmap to list stakes in state-owned enterprises (SOEs) on the stock exchange, privatize selected assets, and restructure entities. Mongolia currently counts 101 SOEs and state-involved firms; mining dominates, holding 63% of assets and revenue. Consolidated 2024 audited figures show SOEs’ return on assets rose to 9.63%, with net profit up to MNT 5.7 trillion, though Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi and Erdenet account for 56% of revenue and 89% of profits—underscoring concentration risks. The plan proposes IPOs of 10–66% stakes in 18 SOEs, full divestment of eight, and mergers or restructuring of seven, aiming to reduce the portfolio to 82 entities and attract domestic and foreign capital while tightening corporate governance. The draft also seeks legal adjustments to enable broad public share offerings without creating dominant shareholders.
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Industry and Mineral Resources Ministry Provides Update on Fuel Situation
Published: 2025-12-18
Mongolia’s Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources delivered a brief situational update on fuel supplies, according to a live post by gogo.mn. The report did not include details on current inventories, import flows, price movements, or policy measures. No statements from named officials were published at the time of posting. Without specifics, the immediate implications for retail availability, wholesale logistics, and pricing remain unclear. Market participants should monitor subsequent ministry releases and distributor notices for confirmation of supply levels, any planned interventions, and potential adjustments to retail prices or allocation. Further updates are expected as the ministry continues to provide real-time information.
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Parliament Leaders Submit Amendments to Streamline Mongolia’s Licensing Regime and Introduce Notification-Based Activities
Published: 2025-12-18
Parliamentary Speaker N. Uchral, together with MPs Kh. Ganhuyag and B. Zayaabal, submitted draft amendments to the Law on Licenses and related laws to further reduce administrative barriers and standardize terminology. The proposal follows a 2022 overhaul that cut more than 1,000 permits down to 381 across 14 sectors. A recent implementation review recommended clarifying license categories, embedding sector-specific rules in relevant laws, fully digitizing processes, and improving ongoing supervision of license holders. The draft would add a notification-based regime for low-risk or one-off activities, allowing operations upon filing notice with the competent authority, while refining “special” and “simple” license definitions. It also envisions transferring certain powers (issuance, renewal, suspension, revocation) to professional associations, enabling automatic renewals when compliance is intact, and consolidating state-issued business documents to curb red tape, reduce corruption risks, and accelerate market entry.
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Diplomacy
Parliament Backs Overhaul of 21 Ambassadorial Posts, Advancing President’s Diplomatic Slate
Published: 2025-12-18
Parliament endorsed consultations to recall and appoint 21 ambassadors, approving President U. Khurelsukh’s slate across Europe, Asia and the Middle East. The package advances veteran diplomat Ts. Munkh-Orgil to France, G. Tenger to Australia, and D. Davaa to Russia, while nominating business-facing envoys to hubs such as the UK, Germany, Italy and Singapore. The Security and Foreign Policy Standing Committee and the full chamber supported the recalls and nominations individually, sending the outcome to the President for final appointment decrees. Lawmakers pressed for measurable performance and stronger service to overseas Mongolian citizens and investors.
“Ambassadors must be closer to our citizens abroad and help expand markets while strengthening public–private partnerships.” - MP P. Naranbayar (news.mn)
“Envoys should present periodic reports to the Security and Foreign Policy Committee.” - MP N. Nomtoibayar (eagle.mn)
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Ulaanbaatar, Canada Explore City-to-City Cooperation on Smart Infrastructure and Eco-Urban Development
Published: 2025-12-18
Ulaanbaatar Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar met Canadian Ambassador Steven Daoust to discuss expanding city-level cooperation focused on smart road and infrastructure solutions, capacity-building for civil servants, and eco-city development. The talks build on ties established when Ulaanbaatar joined the Winter Cities Association in 1999 and partnered with Prince George, Canada. City officials reiterated goals to deploy digital technologies as part of a smart, eco-friendly urban strategy, noting Ulaanbaatar’s outsized economic role and population concentration. Canada is positioned as a “third neighbor,” strategic partner in North America, and major investor, potentially aligning municipal initiatives with broader bilateral priorities. The ambassador signaled willingness to collaborate on pressing urban challenges and knowledge exchange, underscoring scope for joint projects and pilot programs that could address congestion, service delivery, and sustainability.
“There is broad potential to work together on Ulaanbaatar’s most urgent issues and to share experiences.” - Ambassador Steven Daoust (ikon.mn)
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Ulaanbaatar Elevates Ankara Ties to Strategic Partnership with Broader Sector Cooperation
Published: 2025-12-18
Mongolia and Türkiye upgraded relations from a comprehensive to a strategic partnership in 2025, framing a broad agenda that spans health, education, environment, mining, and transport. The package emphasizes joint medical diagnostics, supply of pharmaceuticals and devices, and knowledge exchange on advanced medical technologies. Universities will deepen faculty training, student exchanges, and collaborative research. Environmental cooperation targets climate adaptation, biodiversity, protected-area management, anti-desertification, reforestation, and wildfire response, including capacity-building and equipment support. In mining, the sides plan technology sharing on coal extraction, clean-coal applications, and safety. Transport priorities include studying a new rail-freight route linking Europe and Mongolia via Türkiye and coordinating on international rail corridors. The upgrade follows a year of high-level exchanges, including state visits by Mongolia’s president to multiple countries and reciprocal visits to Ulaanbaatar by regional leaders and Japan’s Emperor, underscoring a balanced foreign policy trajectory.
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Ambassador-Designate Munkh-Orgil Sets Goal to Elevate France Ties to Strategic Partnership with Nuclear, Satellite Projects
Published: 2025-12-18
Parliament’s Standing Committee on Security and Foreign Policy reviewed ambassadorial appointments, including former foreign minister Ts. Munkh-Orgil as ambassador-designate to France. He outlined a four-year agenda to raise bilateral relations to a strategic partnership, aligning France with Mongolia’s existing eight strategic partners. Priorities include executing the government’s investment agreement with Orano in nuclear energy, expanding ICT cooperation by launching a national communications satellite via French concessional financing, increasing Mongolian student enrollment in France, and growing bilateral trade from $156 million to at least $1 billion. The proposed agenda signals a broader push to diversify strategic sectors and deepen technology and education links with France.
“Over my four-year term, I understand we must elevate Mongolia–France relations to a strategic partnership… We should implement the government’s investment agreement with Orano, launch Mongolia’s own communications satellite with French concessional loans, increase Mongolian students in France, and raise trade to at least one billion dollars.” - Ts. Munkh-Orgil, ambassador-designate to France (isee.mn)
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Doha Talks Advance Plan to Export Halal-Prepared Mongolian Meat to Qatar
Published: 2025-12-18
Mongolia and Qatar agreed to collaborate on exporting halal-prepared meat to the Qatari market following high-level talks in Doha on December 16. During the meeting, Mongolia’s State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs L. Munkhtushig and Qatar’s Foreign Ministry Secretary-General Dr. Ahmad Hassan Al-Hammadi discussed expanding ties across trade, economy, culture, sports, infrastructure, aviation, environment, and agriculture. The parties emphasized concluding pending bilateral documents soon and highlighted the role of upcoming high-level visits in accelerating cooperation. The prospective halal meat exports align with Qatar’s food security and halal standards and could diversify Mongolia’s agricultural export destinations beyond its traditional markets, potentially encouraging investment in certification, cold chain logistics, and air cargo links between Ulaanbaatar and Doha. No timeline or volumes were disclosed. No direct quotes were provided in the article.
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Infrastructure
Power Outages Scheduled Across Five Ulaanbaatar Districts for Maintenance on Dec. 18
Published: 2025-12-18
Ulaanbaatar Electricity Distribution Company announced scheduled power cuts across five city districts on December 18 to conduct maintenance. Planned outages will affect Chingeltei’s 9th–11th khoroos from 15:00–17:00, while Sukhbaatar’s 19th, Songinokhairkhan’s 21st, and Chingeltei’s 24th khoroos will see interruptions from 12:00–16:00. Additional downtime is set for Songinokhairkhan’s 21st khoroo from 14:00–15:10, and Khan-Uul’s 4th–6th and Bayanzurkh’s 20th khoroos from 05:55–12:00. Unplanned outages tied to ongoing repair work are slated in Bayanzurkh’s 20th and 33rd khoroos from 13:00–14:00. Businesses and residents in the affected areas should anticipate service interruptions during these windows and plan accordingly for operations, refrigeration, and sensitive equipment. No official provided remarks beyond the outage schedule.
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UNDP, City Hall advance solar heating rollout for ger districts with proposed trust fund
Published: 2025-12-18
Ulaanbaatar City Hall and UNDP are coordinating a scale-up of solar heating systems in ger districts to cut winter coal use and curb air pollution. The mayor underscored limited renewable projects and the urgency of replacing coal briquettes used by more than 170,000 households. UNDP said 68 homes received solar heating in 2024 and a pipeline for 500 installations is in place. It proposed creating a Solar Energy Trust Fund with the government to crowd in private capital, targeting conversions for over 5,000 households and supporting centralized solar-heating facilities. The parties also discussed cooperation on green industrial park design that integrates circular economy and waste management, and on data-driven “smart city” tools to improve urban services.
“Reducing Ulaanbaatar’s air pollution is our top priority.” - Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar (gogo.mn)
“UNDP is ready to establish a Solar Energy Trust Fund with the Government to attract private investment, enabling over 5,000 households to transition to solar heating.” - Matilda Dimovska, UNDP Resident Representative (montsame.mn)
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Preparations Advance for Tuul Expressway; Earthworks Planned for Late April 2026
Published: 2025-12-18
Ulaanbaatar authorities report preparatory works for the Tuul Expressway are 61.6% complete, with overall project completion at 1.63%. The city has allocated MNT 780 billion in the 2026 budget for construction. Core activities include establishing worker camps and temporary facilities, finalizing designs (90% complete), and preparing sites to cast 84 bridge girders—10 casting areas are ready. Around 110 foundations are planned, with pre-cast elements destined for a 9.8 km bridge section east of the central camp near Thermal Power Plant No. 3. Land acquisition affects 112 plots; 10 have been cleared, with valuations for remaining plots scheduled by Q1 2026. Officials aim to start earthworks by late April, contingent on winter design and site prep.
“One of Ulaanbaatar’s most important 2026 summer projects is the Tuul expressway; we are completing winter design and preparations to begin earthworks by late April.” - T. Davaadalai, First Deputy Governor of Ulaanbaatar (unuudur.mn)
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Fuel Supply Law Targets Storage Gaps as Imports Bypass Depots for Mines
Published: 2025-12-18
Mongolia has enacted the Law on Supporting the Supply of Strategically Important Goods to address recurring fuel shortages linked to storage shortfalls and distribution imbalances. According to the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, over 150 licensed importers are channeling fuel directly to mines rather than holding stocks, straining the roughly 20 retail distributors tasked with serving the public. The new law defines what constitutes disruption and scarcity and authorizes government interventions, including support for companies to build storage facilities. It also permits state-backed loans using product inventories as collateral, with potential interest around 17% and eased banking requirements, though no preferential rights are established for specific firms. Officials say the law is open to all licensed entities and aims to build multi-month reserves to stabilize retail supply during import volatility from Russia.
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Chinese Consortium to Build 24 MW Plant and Wastewater Facility for Emeelt Eco Industrial Park
Published: 2025-12-18
A Chinese partnership of HNAC Technology and China Western Power Industrial has won the tender to construct a 24 MW thermal power plant and a wastewater treatment facility for the Emeelt Eco Industrial Park in Ulaanbaatar’s Khan-Uul District. Groundbreaking took place on December 12, with construction slated to start in 2026 and commissioning targeted within two years. The coal-fired plant is projected to consume 199,000–205,000 tons of coal annually, generating 156 million kWh of electricity and 265,600 Gcal of heat to supply park tenants. The International Finance Corporation prepared the feasibility study for the park, which spans 539 hectares and will focus on livestock product processing. Authorities have signaled the project will enable relocation of leather and related industries from the city center, aiming to consolidate utilities and reduce urban pollution.
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Ulaanbaatar to Invest ₮166.7 Billion in 2025 Road Maintenance and Stormwater Upgrades
Published: 2025-12-18
Ulaanbaatar approved ₮166.7 billion in 2025 spending for road and infrastructure upkeep, prioritizing main and secondary streets, traffic safety near schools, accessibility for people with disabilities, and expansion and rehabilitation of stormwater drains and wells. The city plans to construct 50.4 km of new roads across 12 locations, repair 33.8 km, build two pedestrian overpasses, and install 31 km of street lighting. The Roads Development Agency projects ₮102.7 billion in revenue to the city budget next year. Authorities previously said revenue to the city’s road fund would rise by ₮151.5 billion in 2024 after vehicle taxes were doubled or tripled and road usage fees increased fivefold from January. The program targets congestion, safety, and flood resilience ahead of the 2025 rainy season.
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Society
Court Fines Woman for Assaulting Journalist During Oyu Tolgoi Hearing
Published: 2025-12-18
A district court fined citizen Ts. Oyunjargal MNT 100,000 for spitting at and confronting a journalist during the Oyu Tolgoi parliamentary hearing at the State Palace on December 10. The Sukhbaatar District Police referred the case under Mongolia’s Law on Infringements for causing a public disturbance and non-injurious assault. The court cited video evidence and testimonies to establish the violation. Proceedings concluded on December 18 with a summary penalty; no custodial sentence was imposed. The incident, captured on social media, highlighted security and conduct concerns at high-profile legislative hearings. Oyunjargal apologized to the journalist both earlier and again in court, expressing remorse for her actions.
“I apologize to the journalist and regret what I did.” - Ts. Oyunjargal (urug.mn)
Coverage:
- During the ‘Oyu Tolgoi’ hearing, citizen Ts. Oyunjargal — who assaulted a journalist and behaved unethically — apologized to journalist T. Suvdaa (isee.mn)
- Court imposed a fine on Ts. Oyunjargal for attacking, spitting on, and assaulting a journalist (urug.mn)
- During the Oyu Tolgoi hearing, the citizen Ts. Oyunjargal who spat in a journalist’s face was fined 100,000 tugrik (ikon.mn)
- Ts. Oyunjargal, who attacked and spat on a journalist, was fined 100,000 (isee.mn)
- A citizen who spat in a journalist’s face at the Government Palace was fined 100,000 tugrik (gogo.mn)
- A citizen who spat in a journalist’s face was fined 100,000 tugrik (eagle.mn)
Employers Face Strict Rules on Hiring Minors Under Mongolia’s Labor Law
Published: 2025-12-18
Mongolia’s labor regulations set clear conditions for employing minors. Employers may hire those aged 15–18 only under a tripartite employment contract signed with a parent or legal guardian. Workers under 18 cannot be assigned heavy, hazardous, overtime, extended hours, or night shifts. Individuals aged 15 can undertake light work that meets occupational safety and health standards with parental or guardian consent. For vocational orientation and work practice, 14-year-olds can be hired with consent from parents or guardians and authorization from the state labor authority. Outside these exceptions, employment of minors is prohibited. The law bans exploitative child labor, any work endangering a child’s physical or mental development, unfair wage practices, and the use of children in illegal activities, establishing significant compliance obligations for employers.
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Environment
Snow and Blowing Snow Move Across Most Provinces as Deep Freeze Sets In This Week
Published: 2025-12-18
A winter system is bringing snow and blowing snow across western and central Mongolia on December 18, with conditions expanding east on December 19. Forecasts call for gusts up to 15–17 m/s in some areas, poor visibility, and icy roads on mountain passes. Ulaanbaatar expects daytime highs of -7 to -9°C with snow today, and colder nights in valleys such as Yaarmag-Songino. Provincial updates indicate accumulating snow in parts of Bayankhongor and strengthening winds over Altai and Gobi zones. A sharp nationwide cold snap is forecast from December 19, with the most severe temperatures between December 20–24: -35 to -40°C at night in high basins (Darkhad, upper Zavkhan) and -30 to -35°C in major river valleys, while southern Gobi areas remain comparatively milder. Transport, logistics, and outdoor operations should plan for intermittent closures, reduced visibility, and extreme wind chill through the weekend.
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Transparency and Governance Stressed for Mongolia’s Energy Transition to Unlock Investment
Published: 2025-12-18
A multi-stakeholder forum organized by the Open Society Forum and Mongolia’s Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) emphasized that transparent, accountable governance across the critical minerals value chain is essential to attract financing for the energy transition. Officials highlighted declining company reporting to EITI—1,072 firms filed in 2024 versus 1,400+ pre-pandemic—amid financial strain, political instability, and local opposition, raising concerns over continuity and funding for disclosures. The Ministry of Energy said Japan’s JICA is conducting a sector study to inform new policy after the 2015 state energy policy was annulled, while easing small-scale renewable permitting to spur private uptake. Participants urged standardized verification of corporate greenhouse gas accounting and clearer incentives for clean technologies. They also called for gender, environmental, and social impact transparency, and a publicly agreed roadmap to mobilize donor support and private capital.
“Policies and decisions have lacked stability and continuity. We are now implementing the New Recovery Policy and promoting an open approach so that every citizen and business can undertake the energy transition.” - M. Baldorj, Senior Specialist, Ministry of Energy (unuudur.mn)
“From the outset, transparency must be ensured when exploring and extracting new metals and minerals needed for the transition.” - Sh. Tsolmon, Coordinator, EITI Mongolia Secretariat (unuudur.mn)
“We need a consistent state methodology to verify greenhouse gas calculations so all companies can report on a comparable basis.” - G. Munkhjin, Environmental Manager, Steppe Gold (unuudur.mn)
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UNICEF-Backed “CHIP” Insulation and Cleaner Fuel Pilot Shows Warmer Homes, Lower Fuel Use in Ulaanbaatar Ger Areas
Published: 2025-12-18
Ulaanbaatar’s city administration and UNICEF are piloting the “CHIP” project to curb winter air pollution by insulating homes and promoting semi-coke fuel in ger districts. Officials reviewed early outcomes with residents, who reported warmer interiors and reduced fuel consumption this winter. One resident in Chingeltei said home insulation in October, combined with a high-retention nomadic stove and semi-coke fuel, cut usage from seven to five sacks a week while keeping heat for 10–12 hours. UNICEF’s Resident Representative highlighted health motivations and initial impact signals.
“When I arrived in 2021, air pollution stood out as the most difficult issue, especially for children and pregnant women. We’re working with the city to address root causes, and the CHIP project is part of that. Compared with previous years, the smoke has perceptibly decreased. I’m very glad children now wake up for school in warm homes.” - Evariste Kouassi-Komlan, UNICEF Resident Representative (gogo.mn)
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Innovation
E‑Mongolia User Data Not Breached; Edge-Bing Link Sharing Blamed, Academy Says
Published: 2025-12-18
The “E-Mongolia” Academy under the Public Service Administration has denied reports of a mass data leak from the national e-service platform, responding to social media claims that user files were exposed online. The Academy said its inquiry found no breach of citizen data on E-Mongolia’s systems. Instead, it attributed the issue to Microsoft Edge behavior that can collect certain user link information and transmit it to Bing when services are accessed via the browser. The clarification aims to reassure users of the platform’s integrity, though it underscores ongoing risks tied to browser features and third‑party data flows. Organizations relying on E‑Mongolia for digital service delivery may consider advising users on browser settings and monitoring for inadvertent data sharing through search integrations.
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Health
Chingeltei District General Hospital to Launch Chemotherapy and Palliative Care in January
Published: 2025-12-18
Chingeltei District General Hospital will add outpatient chemotherapy, palliative care, hemodialysis, and diabetes treatment from January, expanding specialized services within district-level care. To prepare, the hospital established a Noncommunicable Disease Control Unit and has readied equipment and staffing. The facility currently operates seven inpatient departments with 288 beds and employs 360 medical staff, providing 21 types of services. In 2023 it conducted 343,911 outpatient visits and hospitalized 7,786 patients; pediatric emergency volumes recently eased during school vacation. Surgical capacity has increased this year to 65–80 operations per month, up from 400 total last year. From next year, the hospital plans to introduce trauma emergency and scheduled surgeries, endoscopic procedures, and ENT and urological surgeries, signaling broader access to advanced care at the district level in Ulaanbaatar.
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Health Ministry Names G. Nomin as Deputy Minister, signaling technocratic push
Published: 2025-12-18
The Cabinet appointed Ganbaatar Nomin as Deputy Minister of Health on December 17, and she has formally assumed office. Nomin is a medical doctor with a decade of sector experience. Her background spans research assistance at the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (2015–2016), faculty and clinical roles at its School of Dentistry (2019–2024), and a 2024–2025 tenure at the Ministry of Health focusing on public health. She holds master’s degrees in Medicine and Business Administration. The appointment places a clinician-administrator in a senior policy role as the ministry continues post-pandemic system modernization and public health initiatives. For international observers, her blend of clinical, academic, and managerial credentials suggests continuity in evidence-based policymaking and potential emphasis on preventive care, workforce development, and service quality within the public system.
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Parliament Receives Draft Law to Ratify EBRD Loan for National Cardiac Center Project
Published: 2025-12-18
The Cabinet has submitted to Parliament a draft law to ratify a loan agreement with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to finance procurement and construction for a new National Cardiovascular Center. The agreement, signed on October 29, 2025, would mobilize a $34.9 million EBRD loan and a $26.3 million grant from the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. The project plans a 120-bed facility, upgraded equipment, and workforce training to expand advanced cardiac care, including pediatric congenital surgery and transcatheter valve procedures. Cardiovascular disease remains the country’s top cause of death, with 5,789 deaths in 2024 and high risk prevalence across the population. Demand for cardiac services is projected to rise up to 2.6 times by 2030, underscoring the need to relieve capacity constraints at the Third State Central Hospital’s existing 1985-era premises.
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Parliament Committee Debates Tobacco Control Amendments, Split Over Price Hikes and Tax Loopholes
Published: 2025-12-18
Parliament’s Security and Foreign Policy Standing Committee is reviewing amendments to the Tobacco Control Law and related bills, exposing divisions over price-based measures and import tax policy. MP R. Erdenebüren criticized reliance on price hikes to curb smoking, arguing restrictions have already shown results and warning of unintended consequences if prices rise sharply.
“If you say you’ll reduce smoking by raising prices, that’s false… If we go with price hikes and prohibitions, it feels like drugs could enter as a substitute.” - MP R. Erdenebüren (gogo.mn)
MP A. Ariunzaya countered that taxation is a core public health tool to deter youth access and fund health programs. She highlighted an oversight following adoption of the Eurasian law that effectively zeroed customs duties on imported tobacco products, calling it a harmful loophole that could invite duty-free imports and stockpiling.
“We must not allow any gap. Tobacco cannot be imported tax-free; there’s a risk of importers stockpiling.” - MP A. Ariunzaya (gogo.mn)
Ariunzaya urged a superseding resolution to close the gap.
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National Committee Launches Student Training on Carbon Monoxide Safety as Death Toll Reported in Ulaanbaatar
Published: 2025-12-18
Mongolia’s National Committee for Air Pollution Reduction has begun carbon monoxide poisoning prevention training for students across nine Ulaanbaatar districts, in partnership with the Health Ministry, city health authorities, and the Children’s Palace, with WHO support. Established in December 2024 and chaired by the Prime Minister, the committee is tasked with policy-level action on smog and dust. The program has drawn criticism from local media for appearing to acknowledge risks associated with state-distributed compressed fuel, a contentious issue since its rollout to reduce coal smoke in ger districts. The capital’s Health Center reportedly counted 110 carbon monoxide deaths since the start of 2025, underscoring persistent household heating hazards. The initiative signals a near-term focus on behavioral risk reduction while broader policy measures on fuel safety, stove standards, and ventilation may face renewed scrutiny.
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