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Mongolia Daily: PM reinstates Enkhbayar as Justice Minister, border coal flow rises, and 24MW plant planned

MongoliaDaily

Politics

Prime Minister Reinstates B. Enkhbayar as Justice Minister, Citing Tougher Crackdown on Coal Theft

Published: 2025-09-30

Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar announced the appointment of MP Battömör Enkhbayar as Minister of Justice and Home Affairs to intensify the government’s campaign against coal-related corruption following a three‑month special regime at Erdenes Tavantolgoi (ETT). The PM said audits at ETT exposed multiple schemes and referred evidence to the Anti‑Corruption Agency, while reporting gains in sales, exports, and profitability after governance changes. He tied the move to bring the Bor Teeg deposit into production to broader recovery efforts and alleged the Speaker of Parliament had been linked to coal theft. Market watchers will note the administration’s linkage of anti‑graft enforcement to fiscal stabilization and export performance.

“Unity must rest on justice—there can be no unity that conceals bribery and coal theft.” - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (eagle.mn)

“To continue the fight against coal theft more vigorously and decisively, I have appointed B. Enkhbayar as Minister of Justice and Home Affairs.” - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (ikon.mn)

Coverage:

PM Moves to Appoint B. Enkhbayar as Justice Minister, Triggering Constitutional Debate

Published: 2025-09-30

Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar announced he is appointing MP Battömör Enkhbayar as Minister of Justice and Home Affairs, then formally submitted the nomination to President U. Khurelsukh as required by law. The announcement sparked immediate debate over constitutional procedure and the status of incumbent minister L. Munkhbaatar until parliamentary oath-taking. Officials cited the 2019 constitutional changes granting the prime minister authority to appoint and dismiss cabinet members after notifying the President and Parliament. Critics argue the public “appointment” before issuing a formal decree and completing notifications was irregular.

“Under Article 39.4, a government member is appointed after being presented to Parliament and the President. Today’s statement violated that provision; L. Munkhbaatar remains minister until full procedures are met.” - MP P. Sainzorig (itoim.mn)

“The prime minister exercises an exclusive power to appoint, dismiss, and remove cabinet members after presentation to the President and Parliament. The decision will be formalized per the relevant laws.” - D. Munkh-Erdene, Cabinet Secretariat deputy chief (urug.mn)

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2026 Budget Debated as Lawmakers Weigh Pay Hikes, Spending Caps, and Dual-Deficit Risks

Published: 2025-09-30

Parliament advanced second readings on the 2026 fiscal framework and budget while a petition-driven push to review pay hikes for teachers and doctors gained traction. The Budget Affairs and Petitions committees cited legal caps: current plans set current expenditures at MNT 24.6 trillion and total spending at MNT 32.9 trillion, with a balanced primary balance target restricting room for wage or pension increases. Proposals include cutting low-return projects and tightening health insurance financing, where a MNT 500 billion gap persists. Independent economists warn revenue assumptions omit commodity and external shocks; coal exports are likely 65–75 million tons versus the 90 million projected, risking shortfalls and a widening deficit alongside a projected external account gap.

“We must add spending in downturns and build savings in upswings, or repeated deficits become entrenched.” - Analysis by Urug.mn (urug.mn)

“Mongolia isn’t failing for lack of money but because of misallocation; spending must shift to productive uses.” - Economist D. Amgalan (news.mn)

Coverage:

Opposition Demands Speaker Step Back as Finance Minister Vows Budget Timeline Will Hold

Published: 2025-09-30

Mongolia’s Democratic Party (DP) bloc urged Parliament Speaker D. Amarbayasgalan to refrain from presiding over plenary sessions until alleged corruption claims are resolved, and asked the government to suspend and withdraw the 2026 budget bill. The DP warned that friction between the Speaker and Prime Minister risks a governance crisis that could disrupt the budget process. In response, Finance Minister B. Javkhlan said deliberations remain on schedule, with standing committees continuing reviews and a legal deadline of November 15 for passage.

“Until these serious allegations are investigated and resolved, D. Amarbayasgalan should not chair the plenary. If he was defamed, those responsible must be held accountable.” - O. Tsogtgerel, DP parliamentary caucus head (unuudur.mn)

“There are no conditions to withdraw the 2026 budget draft. Time-bound work must proceed on time.” - Finance Minister B. Javkhlan (itoim.mn)

The standoff introduces political uncertainty, but the government signals continuity: potential amendments can be made during second readings under parliamentary authority.

Coverage:

Public Consultation Opens on Amendments to State and Official Secrets Law to Broaden Transparency

Published: 2025-09-30

The Cabinet Secretariat has drafted amendments to the Law on State and Official Secrets and launched a public consultation following a Sept. 29 stakeholder hearing with more than 40 officials from ministries and agencies. The initiative stems from Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar’s directives to tighten public service discipline and advance anti-corruption measures, including clarifying what information should not be classified and must be disclosed. If passed, the bill would provide a legal basis to expand transparency for non-classified government information, reinforcing citizens’ right to know and open-government principles. The draft is posted on the Cabinet Secretariat website and Mongolia’s unified legal information system for written and online submissions. The effort aligns with a broader plan to refine rules around official secrecy in order to reduce over-classification and support accountability in public administration.

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Prime Minister Zandanshatar to Deliver Public Address at 15:00; Topic Unspecified Following Party Leadership Vote

Published: 2025-09-30

Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar will issue a public statement at 15:00 from his office in the State Palace, with national media carrying the address live. Officials have not disclosed the topic. The timing follows last weekend’s Mongolian People’s Party (MPP) General Council session, which selected a party chair. Zandanshatar reportedly stood as a candidate, and questions have been raised over alleged procedural violations in the party leadership vote, with differing explanations from stakeholders. Observers anticipate the Prime Minister may address the party leadership process and recent political narratives linked to his name. The announcement comes as internal party alignment often precedes policy resets or cabinet adjustments in Mongolia, making the content of the address relevant for governance and potential administrative shifts.

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Ulaanbaatar Customs Officers Receive Travel Restrictions in Corruption Case Ruling

Published: 2025-09-30

An appellate court in Ulaanbaatar modified sentences for two former customs inspectors convicted of abuse of office linked to facilitating tax evasion for a container importer by inadequately inspecting goods. The National Police Agency charged E. Baasansuvd and P. Bayarmaa under Criminal Code 22.1-1 for misusing official authority. A district court on August 1 initially barred Baasansuvd from public service for two years and imposed one year in an open facility, while restricting Bayarmaa’s right to hold public office for two years and confining her to Bayangol District for a year. On appeal, judges converted Baasansuvd’s custodial term to a one-year travel restriction within Khan-Uul District, citing first-offense status and single parenthood, and upheld the ban on public service. The case reflects ongoing judicial action against corruption within customs operations, a sensitive node for revenue collection and trade facilitation.

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Petition Seeks to Scrap Post-Term Allowances for Former MPs

Published: 2025-09-30

A public petition has been launched to repeal a provision granting former Members of Parliament up to 12 months of salary if unemployed after their term ends. The measure, embedded in Article 41.9 of the Law on Parliament, also tops up income for ex-lawmakers who take lower-paying jobs. The benefit has drawn sustained public criticism for privileging officials over ordinary workers. Citizen Ts. Batbold submitted the proposal on the D-Parliament platform to remove the clause entirely. If the petition secures 100,000 signatures, Parliament will be obliged to consider initiating a bill to nullify the provision. The initiative signals renewed scrutiny of political remuneration and could influence forthcoming debates on public sector pay equity and fiscal discipline.

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Parliamentary Committee Backs MNT 45 Billion for Food and Livestock Programs, Plans MNT 229 Billion for UN Desertification Summit

Published: 2025-09-30

Parliament’s Environment, Food and Agriculture Standing Committee reviewed the 2026 draft budget, which earmarks MNT 45 billion to finance and recycle loans for national programs including “Food Revolution,” “Tsagaan Alt” (White Gold), “Shine Khorshoo–Prosperous Herder,” and “Atriin IV.” These schemes provide loans to 300+ enterprises annually and have boosted domestic supply, with two of every three eggs now produced locally, officials noted. Lawmakers debated shifting farm establishment to the private sector and scrutinized whether construction tied to hosting the UNCCD COP17 summit warrants budget outlays. The draft also allocates MNT 229 billion for COP17 preparations in 2026. Members urged leveraging existing ASEM facilities, accelerating winter preparedness, easing debt for drought-hit farmers, and funding Gobi water projects. The ministry reported harvest progress above 70% and pledged detailed updates on winter readiness and concessional lending.

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Ruling Party Member Pushes to Expel MP B. Enkhbayar, Threatens Sanctions on Oversight Chair

Published: 2025-09-30

A senior member of the Mongolian People’s Party (MPP) has begun collecting signatures to expel MP B. Enkhbayar for repeatedly defaming party members. B. Tsogtgerel launched the drive on September 30 at the Independence Palace, targeting over 300 of the MPP’s 470 General Council members to formally refer the case to the party’s Control Committee (21 members), chaired by MP B. Bayarbaatar. Tsogtgerel warned he will seek Bayarbaatar’s removal if the committee declines to act, citing a pattern of delayed or shelved complaints on high-profile cases (coal, green bus procurement, SME Fund, and the Education Loan Fund). The move underscores internal pressure for accountability within the ruling party ahead of potential disciplinary proceedings.

“If the Control Committee does not deliberate and decide this matter, we will hold its chair accountable.” - B. Tsogtgerel (news.mn)

Coverage:

Economy

Border Throughput Raised at Gashuunsukhait to Accelerate Coal Exports

Published: 2025-09-30

Mongolia agreed with Inner Mongolia authorities to raise daily coal truck crossings at the Gashuunsukhait–Gantsmod border from an average 1,500 to 2,000–2,500, aiming to hit 2025–2026 export targets. The plan includes expanding Mongolian-side yard space, increasing customs staff, improving offtake, fully utilizing port capacity, and shifting the automated AGV container terminal to 24/7 operations. Authorities also discussed permitting certain imports through the crossing. Recent market reforms have lifted the share of coal sold via exchange from 8% to 31%, quadrupling mineral royalty revenues and bolstering the budget. The move signals tighter coordination with China on logistics and a push to monetize high-demand coking coal amid infrastructure constraints and seasonal bottlenecks.

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ADB Cuts Mongolia Growth Outlook to 5.7% for 2025–2026 on Weaker Coal, Fiscal Tightening

Published: 2025-09-30

The Asian Development Bank lowered its Mongolia growth forecast to 5.7% in both 2025 and 2026, down from April’s 6.6% and 5.9%. The revision reflects softer coking coal demand as China’s steel exports face higher tariffs and restrictions, and domestic fiscal consolidation that will weigh on consumption and public investment through 2025. Non-mining sectors—especially energy and construction—have supported growth as coal exports slowed, while agriculture rebounded with improved weather but could be hit by weaker harvests and potential harsh winters. Inflation is projected at 8.6% in 2025, easing to 7.2% in 2026 as administered price hikes are delayed and tighter monetary policy transmits. Key risks include deeper curbs on China’s steel industry, slower Oyu Tolgoi output, and severe winter conditions. ADB urges diversification and value-add in critical minerals to reduce commodity dependence.

“While global uncertainty is rising, Mongolia’s economic growth continues. Reducing vulnerability tied to commodity dependence and price volatility, while promoting broader, diversified growth, is increasingly important.” - Shannon Cowlin, ADB Country Director for Mongolia (ikon.mn)

“Mongolia can leverage reserves of critical minerals to achieve inclusive and sustainable growth and become a key player in the clean energy supply chain.” - Z. Munkh-Orgil, Senior Economist, ADB (unuudur.mn)

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Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi Sells 1.49 Million Tons of Coal via MSE in Two Days, Sets New Single-Day Record

Published: 2025-09-30

State-owned miner Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi (ETT) executed back-to-back coal auctions on the Mongolian Stock Exchange, selling a combined 1.49 million tons for about $73.1 million. On Sept. 29, ETT sold 268,800 tons of thermal coal for $10.8 million for delivery to China’s Mandal port. The following day, the company set a new single-day record, transacting 1.22 million tons worth $62.3 million across four auctions. Seven buyers purchased 512,000 tons of 1/3 coking coal and 512,000 tons of thermal coal for delivery to the Gantsmod port, plus 192,000 tons of thermal coal to Mandal. ETT says it is boosting both coking and thermal output while avoiding selective mining, aligning production with cross-border logistics to China and using exchange-based sales to improve price discovery and transparency.

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Backlog of MNT 4.9 Trillion in Mortgage Applications Triggers Parliamentary Review

Published: 2025-09-30

Parliament’s Economic Standing Committee convened its new working group to review Mongolia’s state-backed mortgage program, hearing from the Bank of Mongolia, the Ministry of Construction and Urban Development, the Ministry of Finance, and the Mongolian Mortgage Corporation. Since launch, the program has issued MNT 10.1 trillion to 139,000 households, averaging 17.7 years per loan. From 2023, subsidized 3% loans in rural areas have been offered, with the first three years’ interest covered by the state budget and guarantees available for up to 60% of down payments. Portfolio quality remains strong (95.1% current), and 2024 originations rose 1.5 times year-on-year, yet an unresolved application queue has reached MNT 4.9 trillion by September 2025—signaling demand outpacing funding despite a late-2024 financing uptick and 23.9% growth in mortgage lending within a 33.1% system expansion. No direct official quotes were provided in the sources.

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Central Bank Submits 2026 Monetary Policy Guidelines to Parliament, Pledging Integrated Macro-Financial Framework

Published: 2025-09-30

The Bank of Mongolia submitted the draft 2026 monetary policy guidelines to the Speaker of Parliament, outlining a shift toward a more integrated policy framework that couples monetary policy with macroprudential measures. The draft responds to rapid changes in the global financial architecture driven by digitalization, trade realignments, and risks from pandemics, climate pressures, cost-of-living increases, and geopolitical tensions. The central bank aims to tighten coordination between macroeconomic and financial policies, evaluate system-wide risks, and continue legal reforms in the banking sector, including reviewing implementation, clarifying regulations, and proposing amendments where needed. The submission meets the statutory deadline of October 1 each year and follows public presentation and open discussions of the draft.

“We will implement monetary and financial policies that support macroeconomic and financial stability in a rapidly evolving international financial system shaped by digital transformation and changes in trade and relations.” - Governor B. Lkhagvasuren (gogo.mn)

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Finance Minister Targets Lower Interest on Oyu Tolgoi Loans as 2026 Budget Advances

Published: 2025-09-30

Finance Minister B. Javkhlan outlined parallel progress on the 2026 budget and renegotiations of Oyu Tolgoi financing terms. He said initial budget hearings concluded September 15, with a second round next week and final approval due November 15. A new government task force led by Javkhlan has begun preparatory meetings with Oyu Tolgoi and Erdenes Mongol executives to open talks by year-end aimed at reducing borrowing costs set in a 2018 agreement. The government seeks to cut an 11% interest component, shorten the seven‑year review cycle, and end compounding methods that have doubled a 6 trillion MNT principal to 12 trillion MNT.

“We intend to correct the 2018 mistake by lowering the loan interest and revising terms such as the seven-year review period.” - Finance Minister B. Javkhlan (news.mn)

He added parliament retains full authority to adjust next year’s budget during deliberations, but no withdrawal is anticipated.

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Tourism Campaign ‘Go Mongolia’ Credited with Record Visitors and $1.6B Boost, Former Minister Says

Published: 2025-09-30

Former culture and tourism minister and current MP Ch. Nomin defended the multi‑year “Go Mongolia” branding campaign, asserting it drove a record 800,000 visitors and $1.6 billion in economic turnover over the past year—roughly equal to about 20% of projected state revenue. She said the program spans 2021–2026, involved global outlets such as CNN, BBC, and Time, and is contractually and legally vetted. Nomin urged continuation of funding through 2026, noting gains in economic and credit indices and a 14% improvement in the country’s soft power ranking. She acknowledged a reported decline in South Korean tourists by around 50,000, arguing for consistent international promotion. Addressing controversy over The MongolZ esports team’s national squad status, she said no budget funds were paid during her tenure and denied conflicts of interest.

“Tourism generated in one year an amount nearly equal to 20% of budget revenues; this is the tangible result of ‘Go Mongolia’.” - MP Ch. Nomin (ikon.mn)

“The MongolZ did not receive any state funding while I was minister.” - MP Ch. Nomin (ikon.mn)

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Major Employers Offer 710 Positions at Government–Chamber Job Fair

Published: 2025-09-30

The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, in partnership with the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI), held an open job fair showcasing 710 vacancies from more than 20 companies. Large domestic employers—including Nomin Holding, Monos Group, and Golomt Bank—participated, signaling coordinated efforts to channel experienced talent from public service into private sector roles. MNCCI Deputy Director Ch. Battulga framed the initiative as part of a broader strategy to align state and business priorities for sustainable growth and competitiveness.

“While protecting private sector interests, we have collaborated with government agencies to support stable growth. Bringing people with public-sector experience into private companies can significantly contribute to organizational development.” - Ch. Battulga, MNCCI Deputy Director (unuudur.mn)

Organizers positioned the fair as a step toward deeper state–private cooperation, aiming to link seasoned professionals with business demand and strengthen workforce competitiveness.

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Sod Mongol Group Wins ETT Fuel Supply Tender with Lowest Bid

Published: 2025-09-30

State-owned miner Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi (ETT) selected Sod Mongol Group as fuel supplier after a competitive tender launched on August 1. Bids were accepted from September 1, 2025, with the tender’s total estimated value set at MNT 322.7 billion. Sod Mongol’s offer totaled MNT 239.84 billion, with a discount of MNT 26.29 million, bringing the calculated bid to MNT 239.81 billion—significantly below the estimate. ETT issued a clarification to counter misinformation circulating about the procurement, underscoring that Sod Mongol submitted the lowest compliant bid and was awarded accordingly. The outcome signals potential cost savings for ETT’s operations at Tavan Tolgoi and highlights tighter scrutiny of high-value fuel contracts as Mongolia’s coal logistics and mining output require stable, competitively priced fuel supply.

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Credit Scoring Reform Replaces Blacklist but Triggers Complaints Over Consistency and Collection Practices

Published: 2025-09-30

Parliament’s May 16 amendments to the Credit Information Law took effect on August 10, replacing the “blacklist” with a 300–850 credit score designed to segment risk and improve access to finance. While officials expected better risk pricing, consumers report inconsistent scores between the two licensed bureaus—“Büren Score” and “Sain Score” (the latter uses FICO methodology)—and say many lenders only accept Sain Score, forcing duplicate paid checks. Banks and non-bank lenders have also tightened documentation requirements, with some reportedly rejecting any borrower flagged for late payments. Allegations of abusive debt collection practices have surfaced, including harassment, misrepresentation as bank staff, and threats to contact employers, prompting complaints to the National Human Rights Commission. The rollout contrasts with mature markets where one standardized score underpins most financial services, highlighting Mongolia’s fragmented implementation and consumer protection gaps.

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Toronto Store Launch Showcases Mongolia-Made Cashmere and Wool Brands

Published: 2025-09-30

A new retail outlet, “Mongolian Gallery,” opened in Toronto on September 26, featuring cashmere and wool apparel from Mongolian small and medium producers including Hanbogd, Buuvee, Maral Design, Jins Muren, and Warm. The move targets Canada’s premium knitwear segment, where Mongolia’s current share is just 0.8% of related imports despite rising exports in recent years. According to Mongolia’s Embassy in Canada, effective consumer education on the warmth, softness, and durability of Mongolian cashmere could lift market share to 5–10%. The store provides a physical showcase for brand differentiation, quality assurance, and origin storytelling—key factors in high-end retail—while potentially opening wholesale and e-commerce channels for participating manufacturers.

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Diplomacy

Bahrain Backs Import Framework to Open Market for Mongolian Meat and Livestock

Published: 2025-09-30

Mongolia and Bahrain agreed to establish the legal framework to begin exports of meat, meat products, and live sheep and goats to the Kingdom, following talks between Ambassador P. Sergelen and Bahrain’s Ministry of Municipalities and Agriculture Affairs. Ulaanbaatar has secured Halal accreditation via the GCC Accreditation Center, enabling initial exports of chilled mutton to Kuwait and Qatar, with live animal exports under discussion. Bahrain’s Assistant Undersecretary for Livestock, Dr. Ibrahim Yousif Ahmed, said he supports diversifying meat imports and will pursue a near-term virtual meeting to finalize health certificate terms and facilitate direct links between Mongolian exporters and Bahraini importers. Dr. Fajer Sabah Al-Salloom, Director of Animal Health and OIE Vice President, noted Bahrain now registers Halal certificates and will review Mongolia’s proposed veterinary certificates. The move would align Bahrain with Kuwait and Qatar, creating a unified Gulf entry point for Mongolian suppliers.

“We fully support importing meat from Mongolia as part of diversifying Bahrain’s food supply and will quickly coordinate certificate conditions with Mongolia’s veterinary authority.” - Dr. Ibrahim Yousif Ahmed, Assistant Undersecretary for Livestock (ikon.mn)

“Our ministry now registers all legal documents related to meat imports, including Halal certification, and we can finalize Mongolia’s health certificates soon.” - Dr. Fajer Sabah Al-Salloom, Director of Animal Health and OIE Vice President (ikon.mn)

Coverage:

President Khurelsukh Holds Informal Meetings with Zelensky, Milei, Slovenia’s Pirc Musar, and Bhutan’s PM at UNGA 80

Published: 2025-09-30

President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh returned from the UN General Assembly’s 80th session after addressing the General Debate and meeting UN Secretary-General António Guterres. Beyond formal bilaterals with Finland’s President Alexander Stubb and Montenegro’s President Jakov Milatović, Khurelsukh held informal talks with Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky, Argentina’s Javier Milei, Slovenia’s Nataša Pirc Musar, and Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, sharing videos on Instagram. His office said Mongolia will continue strong cooperation with the UN, reflecting a consistent multi-pillared, peace-oriented foreign policy. The encounters reinforce Mongolia’s balanced diplomacy by engaging leaders from Europe, South Asia, and Latin America, and build on recent ties, including Slovenia’s August state visit and Bhutan’s July royal visit. These touchpoints could create openings for sectoral cooperation and visibility for Mongolia’s neutrality stance at multilaterals.

Coverage:

Infrastructure

24 MW Thermal Power Plant Planned to Supply Emeelt Eco Industrial Park by 2028

Published: 2025-09-30

Ulaanbaatar city authorities plan a 24 MW coal-fired thermal power plant to serve the forthcoming Emeelt Eco Industrial Park, a 539-hectare complex located about 30 km southwest of the city center in Khan-Uul District. Design completion is slated for 2025, with construction to begin in 2026 and commissioning targeted within two years. The plant will feature two 110–130 t/h circulating fluidized bed boilers and two 12 MW steam turbo-generators, producing an estimated 156 million kWh of electricity and 265,600 Gcal of heat annually. It will operate in parallel with the national grid and create about 185 permanent jobs. Officials emphasize lower emissions versus conventional boilers and centralized utility corridors for heat, water, power, and telecom. The energy backbone is key as leather and related industries relocate to the park from central Ulaanbaatar.

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Ulaanbaatar Quadruples Urban Services Budget, Ties Worker Pay to Inflation as Fleet Expansion Accelerates

Published: 2025-09-30

Ulaanbaatar plans over MNT 360 billion in 2026 for urban cleaning and services, up from about MNT 50 billion previously, to modernize equipment and raise wages. City officials say special-purpose vehicles are being procured directly from manufacturers and provided to contractors via five-year, zero-interest, no-down-payment leasing, enabling continuous fleet renewal without upfront strain. As of late September, about 170 of 241 vehicles slated for this year have arrived, with multi-function units to plow, load snow, and sweep. The city aims to mechanize washing of road barriers next year and reduce manual winter operations. Green space maintenance has expanded with new plantings and landscaping.

“We will increase wages in the urban services sector annually in line with inflation.” - Kh. Nyambaatar, Ulaanbaatar Mayor (montsame.mn)

“From next year, we aim to wash street fences and barriers using machinery, and we will demand quality performance now that pay and equipment are addressed.” - Kh. Nyambaatar, Ulaanbaatar Mayor (montsame.mn)

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Ulaanbaatar to Channel Surplus from City-Owned Firms into Mega Projects as Profitability Rises

Published: 2025-09-30

Ulaanbaatar will allocate surplus revenues from city-owned companies and self-financing entities to large-scale infrastructure projects starting next year, following a sharp turnaround in profitability. City officials report roughly 90% of entities are now operating profitably, aided by public transport renewal and road funding mechanisms. The Central Stadium expects MNT 3.5 billion in profit this year while maintaining free community events. Over 250 km of roads have been upgraded, with second-level ring and Tuul expressways slated to begin from next year. The city will push results-based management and cost-cutting in 2026–2027 to sustain performance.

“Around 90% of our municipal entities have become profitable. We will direct their surplus to mega projects, with public transport alone generating over MNT 70 billion and the potential to reach MNT 100 billion next year.” - Ulaanbaatar Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar (gogo.mn)

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Ulaanbaatar Halts Planned 3.6 km Road Between Yarmag and Zaisan After Resident Opposition

Published: 2025-09-30

Ulaanbaatar authorities have suspended plans to build a 3.6 km road along the Tuul River embankment between Yarmag Bridge and Zaisan Bridge, following organized objections from residents in Khan-Uul District’s 19th and 20th khoroos. The route had been preliminarily mapped to run north of existing pedestrian and cycling lanes, with design work yet to start. The decision reflects growing sensitivity to preserving riverside green space and non-motorized corridors in a rapidly densifying district that hosts major residential and commercial developments. The pause may prompt a broader rethink of mobility priorities in the city’s south, where congestion pressures compete with recreational and environmental uses along the embankment.

“We planned a 3.6 km road that would not encroach on the pedestrian and bicycle lanes, but at residents’ request we are stopping the project before design work begins.” - B. Odbayar, Head of the Ulaanbaatar Road Development Department (ikon.mn)

Coverage:

Published: 2025-09-30

Ulaanbaatar has launched expanded public bus services connecting Sükhbaatar Square and Tavan Shar with Chinggis Khaan International Airport, following a route redesign aimed at cutting delays. Three lines now operate: H:19 (Sükhbaatar Square–Airport) every 48 minutes with 5–6 buses daily; H:20 (Tavan Shar–Airport); and a night line Shü:4 (Tavan Shar–Airport, 22:00–03:20). From September 1–28, 2,494 passengers used the services, with H:19 carrying 2,185—roughly 86–110 passengers per day—and monthly ridership per bus tripling versus two years ago. Fares are MNT 15,000 for adults and MNT 7,000 for children, payable by card or cash. Authorities shifted H:19 on September 29 via Olympic Bridge, Gandhi Street, and Chinggis Avenue to bypass persistent bottlenecks, targeting a 30–40 minute reduction in travel time. Operational gaps remain around flight delays and limited layover facilities for drivers, risking schedule reliability and service quality.

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Ulaanbaatar Advances PPP Deal for 300 MW CHP-5, Clears Contractor’s Compliance and Targets 30-Month Build

Published: 2025-09-30

Ulaanbaatar has finalized negotiations to build the 300 MW, 340 Gcal/h CHP-5 under a public–private partnership, selecting Cambodia-registered Mitime International after a seven-month, four-stage tender weighted 70% to financing capacity and 30% to technical experience. The city will cover 20% of costs, with the developer financing 80%. The updated 2021 feasibility study sets project capex at $658.5 million, a 14-year payback, and a 25-year power offtake at 8.8 cents/kWh; commissioning is planned within 30 months at the former TPP-2 ash yard. Officials said Mongol Bank checks and law enforcement clearances found no sanctions or money-laundering issues regarding the company. The plant is intended to relieve an acute capacity shortage that has constrained new housing, schools, and industry, and follows recent additions from the Booroljuut plant and a 50 MW battery to stabilize winter supply.

“As of now, Ulaanbaatar lacks the power and heat capacity to add new schools, kindergartens, or housing; CHP-5 is the single most critical project for the city.” - T. Davaadalai, Deputy Mayor (ikon.mn)

“Mongol Bank and judicial authorities issued official clearances; no sanctions or money-laundering records were found for Mitime International.” - T. Davaadalai, Deputy Mayor (ikon.mn)

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Ulaanbaatar Cable Car Installs Fifth Support Column as Local Engineers Take Lead

Published: 2025-09-30

Ulaanbaatar’s cable car project advanced with the installation of its fifth support column, the first completed by Mongolian engineers following initial work by French partners. The 4.2 km Yarmag–Kharkhorin line will have 19 columns (7.5–42 meters high), two stations, and is being implemented under a France–Mongolia financing agreement with Poma advising and Monnis Engineering leading local construction. Concrete works are slated to finish by October 30; all columns by November, with systems fit-out beginning January 2026. Authorities target construction completion by December 2025, followed by three months of testing, aiming for service in Q2 2026. Planned capacity is about 4,800 passengers per hour on the corridor; indicative fares are MNT 1,500–2,600, pending final approval. Officials expect the line to carry up to 18% of public transport flows in the city’s west and south.

“The project entered government in 2019 and was ratified by Parliament under a France–Mongolia agreement. By March 2026 it will be operational, with testing in June, and will move about 4,800 people per hour on the Yarmag–Kharkhorin route.” - Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar (news.mn)

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Environment

Semi-coke Briquettes Rollout Pushed to Oct 8 as City Finalizes Packaging and Safety Checks

Published: 2025-09-30

Ulaanbaatar plans to switch households to semi-coke briquettes this heating season, targeting lower emissions versus prior “middling” briquettes. City officials had indicated sales from Oct 1, but the rollout is now expected on Oct 8 as packaging and household safety inspections are completed. The semi-coke product, imported from Shenmu, Shaanxi (China), will be sold at MNT 5,000 per 25-kg sack, while remaining middling stock continues at MNT 3,750. Authorities project 306,000 tons of semi-coke will be supplied in 2025–26, with app-based and ID QR code purchasing enabled. Tests cited by officials claim semi-coke could cut overall urban air pollution by up to 45–50% and fine particulates by up to 80% from household chimneys.

“We won’t quite make October 1; we expect to begin sales six days later.” - A. Amartuvshin, Deputy Mayor for Green Development and Air Pollution (ikon.mn)

“Semi-coke will go on sale from October 8 based on information we’ve received.” - G. Davaabaatar, spokesperson, Tavan Tolgoi Tulsh (ikon.mn)

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Ulaanbaatar Sets 2028 Smoke-Free Target with Gas Conversion and New Fuel Rollout

Published: 2025-09-30

Ulaanbaatar plans to eliminate winter smog by 2028 through mass household gas conversion and interim fuel shifts. Starting late next month, insulation upgrades will be completed for ger-district homes, with about 5,000 households in Zuraagt, Gandan, and Bayankhoshuu connected to gas in November. Another 50,000 households are slated for gas in 2025, followed by 65,000 more in winter 2027–2028, aiming for a cumulative 110,000 conversions—critical given that ger-area chimneys account for over half of citywide air pollution. Authorities will also import and sell semi-coked “blue coal” alongside improved briquettes, projecting a 30% citywide pollution reduction this winter and 45–50% in ger areas, supported by monthly heating-season cash incentives to households.

“By transitioning 110,000 households to gas, we will resolve Ulaanbaatar’s air pollution issue.” - A. Amartuvshin, Deputy Mayor (news.mn)

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Ulaanbaatar Allocates ₮40 Billion to Insulate Homes and Shift 5,000 Households to LPG Heating

Published: 2025-09-30

Ulaanbaatar city will fund around ₮40 billion to insulate houses and connect 5,000 households in Chingeltei’s 10, 11, 13 khoroos and Bayangol’s 11, 16 khoroos to LPG heating, with hookups expected in early November. The city will cover exterior facades and attic insulation for houses, while residents pay for facade finishing, porches, floors, and window insulation. Of the 5,000, about 1,386 are in gers and 3,614 in houses. LPG supply will be provided by Dashvaanjil, Gorgaz, and Unigas, with 22 cylinder-filling points to be established. Current prices are projected at MNT 2,500 per liter (15L cylinders for houses, 10L for gers), potentially dropping to MNT 1,800 next year if imports increase. The city plans storage investment in 2025 and aims to convert 50,000 more households. UNICEF is co-implementing ger insulation support.

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Pilot Rice Cultivation in Khovd Yields First Harvest, Project Expansion Planned

Published: 2025-09-30

A joint pilot by Mongolia’s Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry and the Korea Program on International Agriculture (KOPIA) harvested its first rice crop from a 5.3-hectare test field in Bulgan soum, Khovd province. Trial yields are projected at 6–8 tons per hectare, indicating potential for scaling in western Mongolia’s arid climate with proper irrigation and inputs. Following the successful trial, KOPIA headquarters signaled a move from pilot to full project implementation from next year, and the ministry awarded sectoral honors to KOPIA Mongolia’s director and a researcher for their contributions.

“Our pilot succeeded, and our headquarters informed us today that the project will proceed directly from next year. We will prioritize developing rice cultivation at production scale and strengthening its foundation.” - U Myung-gyu, Director, KOPIA Mongolia (unuudur.mn)

“We must complete what we have started. The ministry will provide full support to develop rice cultivation in Mongolia so we can share the results together.” - T. Jambaltsuren, State Secretary, Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry (unuudur.mn)

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Soil Frost to Reach 20 cm Depth Across Much of Country from Mid-October to Early November

Published: 2025-09-30

Mongolia’s National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring projects the soil to freeze to 20 cm depth on a staggered timeline, signaling the operational start of winter conditions for infrastructure and agriculture. Forecasts indicate freezing in Uvs, Govisümber, and most of Khentii by late October; in Bayankhongor, Govi-Altai, Övörkhangai, Darkhan, Selenge, parts of Dundgovi, Dornogovi, Dornod, and Sükhbaatar in early November; and in Bayan-Ölgii, Khovd, Zavkhan, Khövsgöl, Arkhangai, Orkhon, Bulgan, Ulaanbaatar, and much of Tuv during mid-October. The timing affects road maintenance, building sites, utility works, and autumn agricultural activities, as frozen ground complicates excavation and increases logistics costs. Media reuse of the forecast is restricted and requires attribution to ikon.mn under agreed terms.

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Khomin Tal Added to UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves

Published: 2025-09-30

UNESCO’s International Coordinating Council for the Man and the Biosphere Programme approved Khomin Tal as part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves during its 37th session in Hangzhou on June 26–28. With this addition, Mongolia now has 12 biosphere reserves recognized by UNESCO. Officials from UNESCO’s Mongolian National Commission and Khomin Tal’s Protected Area Administration received the certificate at the event. The designation elevates Khomin Tal’s international profile and is expected to strengthen conservation, attract programmatic support from UNESCO, and expand regional cooperation and capacity-building opportunities. Established as a nationally protected natural complex in 2020, Khomin Tal spans 411,403 hectares in Zavkhan Province, encompassing diverse habitats from semi-desert and dry steppe to reed wetlands around Khar and Dörgön lakes, and fertile meadows along the Zavkhan River valley.

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Innovation

Banks Expand Lower-Rate Green Loans for Energy-Efficient Purchases and EVs

Published: 2025-09-30

Mongolian banks are scaling up “green loans” to finance energy-efficient equipment, home insulation, electric heating, small wastewater treatment units, eco-toilets, electric vehicles, scooters, and efficient housing. Average green loan rates run 15–16%—below typical consumer loans at 18–20%. Trade and Development Bank (TDB/ХХБ) offers up to MNT 50 million at 15% for as long as 30 months with no down payment and income-based collateral. Khan Bank provides distinct products for household efficiency upgrades and green vehicles (new and used EVs and plug-in hybrids up to three years old), requiring verifiable income and clean credit history. Golomt Bank finances green goods and vehicles with 15.6–19.2% interest, terms up to 30 months (consumer) and 96 months (business), and 20% down unless backed by real estate. Capitron Bank targets high-water-use businesses with greywater equipment loans up to MNT 500 million, 12–60 months, and 12.0–14.4% (MNT) or 12.6–13.2% (USD), with up to 12 months principal grace.

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