Politics
Ruling MPP Expands Governing Bodies and Sets First General Council Meeting After Leadership and Rule Changes
Published: 2025-11-18
The Mongolian People’s Party (MPP) concluded its 31st Congress after three days, electing N. Uchral as party leader and overhauling internal rules. Delegates added 44 provisions, revised 57, and removed nine, while enlarging the General Council from 479 to 597 members and renewing the Control Committee. The newly formed Council convenes today to approve the Executive Board and confirm the secretary-general slate—potentially reshuffling top operational roles. News outlet reports indicate controversy over businessman Ts. Anandbazar’s inclusion on the Council due to reputational concerns. Parliamentary business slowed as 68 ruling MPs attended party sessions, pushing standing committee meetings back. Uchral emphasized broader consultation in Council selections with inputs from provincial, city, district units and affiliated NGOs. Vice Speaker J. Bat-Erdene underscored the strengthened party leader’s mandate to choose key officers under the revised rules.
“The party leader will choose whom and how to work with.” - J. Bat-Erdene, Deputy Speaker of Parliament (news.mn)
“We considered proposals from local party bodies and NGOs when selecting the 597 Council members.” - N. Uchral, MPP Chairman (isee.mn)
“I will shoulder whatever burden the state requires.” - L. Enkh-Amgalan, senior MPP figure (news.mn)
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Published: 2025-11-18
Ulaanbaatar city authorities held a public hearing on the 2026 budget draft to gather citizen feedback before finalizing allocations. Residents pressed for stronger investment in urban infrastructure and planning, large-scale ger district housing conversion, new schools and kindergartens, better front-line public services, lower red tape and tax burdens, and crime prevention. Deputy Governor A. Amartuvshin said the city expects MNT 4,387.6 billion in revenue next year, to be directed toward public–private partnership-led growth, housing and air pollution reduction, added connector roads, comprehensive public transport upgrades to ease congestion, and completing ongoing capital projects to expand basic services. Parliament has set base revenues at MNT 3,495.9 billion and expenditures at MNT 2,616.8 billion for the capital, with MNT 42.6 billion from the Local Development Fund to be distributed across nine districts for essential projects.
“We will channel next year’s revenues to expand the city’s economy through public–private partnerships, convert ger districts to apartments, add connector roads, overhaul public transport, and finish ongoing investments to improve service access.” - A. Amartuvshin, Deputy Governor of Ulaanbaatar (montsame.mn)
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Central Bank Governor’s Six-Year Term Ends Friday as Successor Talk Centers on Two Candidates
Published: 2025-11-18
Bank of Mongolia Governor B. Lkhagvasuren’s six‑year mandate expires on November 22, triggering the formal process to appoint his successor under the Central Bank Law. The law stipulates that the governor is appointed by Parliament for a six‑year term following a hearing on a nomination submitted by the Speaker. Lkhagvasuren was appointed on November 22, 2019, on the recommendation of then Speaker G. Zandanshatar. Local reports indicate early maneuvering for the post, with Economic Development Minister Ch. Khurelbaatar and National Statistics Office head B. Batdavaa reportedly preparing to run. A leadership change at the central bank can influence monetary policy continuity, coordination with fiscal authorities, and investor sentiment, making Parliament’s timetable and choice of nominee key near-term signals for markets and the banking sector.
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Published: 2025-11-18
Mongolia’s Constitutional Court (Tsets) will hear a petition on January 24 challenging Criminal Code Article 13.14, which penalizes disseminating knowingly false information that harms the reputation of individuals or legal entities. The provision allows fines of 450–1,300 units, up to 720 hours of community service, or travel restrictions for one to three months. Petitioners argue the clause violates several Constitutional guarantees, including the principles of democracy and rule of law (Article 1.2), the right to seek and receive information excluding protected secrets (Article 16.17), the state’s obligation to safeguard human rights (Article 19.1), and the requirement that all laws conform to the Constitution (Article 70.1). The outcome could reshape legal boundaries for defamation and misinformation, with implications for media, civil society, and corporate communications.
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Legal Activist Demands Repeal of 2% Property Sale Tax After Parliamentary Inaction
Published: 2025-11-18
Lawyer O. Bathuu has formally petitioned Parliament to nullify Mongolia’s 2% tax on real estate sales, saying a citizen-led petition has met the threshold for legislative debate but remains stalled in a standing committee since September 15. He criticized parties for pledging not to raise taxes and then failing to act once in office, arguing the levy burdens both upgraders and distressed sellers. The move spotlights rising public pressure on transaction taxes as housing liquidity tightens and incomes lag inflation. Bathuu submitted a demand to Speaker G. Zandanshatar to prioritize discussion.
“We already pay up to 45% tax on our income, then the state takes another 2% when we sell a home or car. This is wrong. MPs are ignoring citizens’ proposals, so I’m delivering a demand to the Speaker.” - Lawyer O. Bathuu (unuudur.mn)
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Parliament Passes 2026 Budget Under Deadline Pressure, Wage Hikes Likely to Force Early Revision
Published: 2025-11-18
Parliament approved the 2026 state budget under legal deadline pressure without a speaker, setting revenues at MNT 31.9 trillion and expenditures at MNT 32.9 trillion, for a MNT 1 trillion deficit. The package advances sharp pay rises—teachers up 50% from January with a further lift to MNT 2.8 million in November; doctors up 75% (30% from Jan 1, then 9% monthly from August to December)—but financing details for the health sector hike were not specified. Lawmaker A. Ariunzaya signaled an imminent revision, noting implementation risks. VAT refund expansion to 5% will start in October 2026, delaying consumer relief, while broader tax reform bills remain unsubmitted. Mining will contribute about 27% of revenue, underscoring concentration risk despite conservative commodity price assumptions. Public-sector wage precedents could spur further sector demands and raise pressure to cut operating and equipment costs.
“A very difficult-to-implement budget has been approved, so I am confident a revision will be brought soon. The doctors’ salary increase was not budgeted; the Finance Ministry should prepare a supplement.” - MP A. Ariunzaya (eagle.mn)
“We reduced operating and equipment expenses to raise teachers’ and doctors’ salaries. The government should solve pay and pensions through competitiveness, not short-term fire-fighting.” - MP S. Erdenebold (eagle.mn)
“We are increasing VAT refunds to five percent… From 2027, ten percent will be refunded for purchases up to MNT 500,000.” - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (eagle.mn)
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Ruling Party Elects N. Uchral as Leader; Asset Disclosure Lists ₮1.7B Income and ₮5B in Real Estate
Published: 2025-11-18
The Mongolian People’s Party (MPP) elected First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Development N. Uchral as party chair at its 31st Congress. His latest Anti-Corruption Agency (IAAC) disclosure reports personal income of ₮1.784 billion and family income of ₮47 million, plus ₮1.972 billion from asset sales. Uchral declares ₮5 billion in real estate, including two parking spaces, one commercial building, two summer houses, and two apartments; vehicles worth ₮965 million; livestock valued at ₮60 million; land worth ₮150 million; jewelry at ₮85 million; ₮2.178 billion in bank accounts; and ₮7 million in cash. He holds shares in Ikh Zasag International University LLC, Massiv Trade LLC, Green Land Group LLC, Royal Academy LLC, Gots Jaaluud Kindergarten LLC, and Erdenes Tavantolgoi JSC, and reports three special permits. The disclosure underscores his extensive business interests as he assumes party leadership and continues to head the economy portfolio.
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Ruling Party Backs N. Uchral as Leader, Drops Power-Sharing Deal as Democrats Move to Boycott
Published: 2025-11-18
The ruling Mongolian People’s Party (MPP) selected N. Uchral as party leader at an “unity” congress, consolidating control after weeks of internal turmoil and shelving a tentative power-sharing arrangement with the Democratic Party (DP). Political sources cited by isee.mn say President U. Khurelsukh urged rivals G. Zandanshatar and D. Amarbayasgalan to withdraw, clearing the way for Uchral. The MPP is now positioning Zandanshatar to continue leading the government through 2027, with Uchral potentially taking the speakership and later steering the party into 2028 elections. The DP, which was previously promised the parliamentary speakership, 5–6 ministries, and retention of appointees, was reportedly sidelined after dismissals of DP-linked officials at the Development Bank and ministries. In response, the DP caucus is pushing legislation to bar party leaders from simultaneously serving as parliamentary speaker.
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Ulaanbaatar Expands Crime Prevention Council Session, Demands Transparent Budget Results
Published: 2025-11-18
Ulaanbaatar’s sectoral council coordinating crime prevention held an expanded session at the Capital Emergency Management Agency, presenting—for the first time—its completed work and spending against the dedicated budget. Chairs of citizens’ representative councils from all nine districts, who also head their respective crime prevention councils, joined representatives from around 20 member organizations. The session focused on publicly disclosing outcomes and the effectiveness of funds allocated to district-level prevention programs, signaling stronger accountability expectations for measurable reductions in crime and violations. The city leadership emphasized that districts have received sufficient funding, increasing pressure to demonstrate results and communicate them openly to residents.
“It is important to openly inform the public about exactly what has been done with budget funds and by how much crime has been reduced. We will continue on this principle, as districts have been given sufficient budgets—so we need results.” - A. Bayar, Chair of the Citizens’ Representative Khural and head of the city’s crime prevention council (urug.mn)
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Economy
Government Assures Fuel Supply Is Stable as Weekend Logistics Trigger Short-Lived Shortages
Published: 2025-11-18
Reports of queues at petrol stations in Ulaanbaatar resurfaced on November 17, while the Industry and Mineral Resources Ministry said 256 fuel tank wagons were in-country at 07:00 on November 18, including 122 for AI-92 and 104 for diesel. Officials attribute the disruption to weekend warehouse closures and daytime transport limits that delayed station resupply, not to a supply crunch. Authorities plan to normalize Ulaanbaatar inventories first, then replenish regions. November import plans total 186,700 tons from Russia and China; by mid-month 116,000 tons had arrived, including roughly two-thirds of monthly AI-92 needs. The government also offset a $160/ton price gap for Chinese fuel with a ₮7.5 billion subsidy to hold retail prices steady. National statistics show AI-92 at MNT 2,590/liter in the capital and diesel up 1.3% to MNT 3,365.
“Fuel supply remains stable and prices will not rise.” - State Secretary B. Dashpurev (news.mn)
“Price increases are not expected; warehouses and stations have sufficient stocks.” - D. Davaabayar, head of petroleum products, MRPAM (eagle.mn)
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Household Incomes Edge Up as Spending Rises; GDP Expands 5.9% While Budget Gap Widens
Published: 2025-11-18
Mongolia’s economy showed mixed signals through Q3–October. Preliminary data indicate GDP grew 5.9% year-on-year to MNT 60.1 trillion for the first nine months, driven by agriculture and services, with September’s output also higher on gains in farming and construction. Household finances improved but remained tight: average monthly income reached MNT 2.8 million in Q3, up from a year earlier, led by wages (57.7%) and pensions (21.4%), while average monthly spending climbed to MNT 2.9 million, with 70% on non-food goods and services. Income and expenditure distributions shifted toward higher brackets, suggesting gradual upward mobility. On public finances, total revenue and grants in the first 10 months fell to MNT 25.0 trillion and balanced revenue to MNT 23.3 trillion, while spending and net lending rose to MNT 24.9 trillion, leaving a MNT 1.6 trillion deficit. Tax revenue declined, notably in income tax and fees, underscoring fiscal pressure despite headline growth.
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Oyu Tolgoi Board to Appoint New CEO This Week as Loan-Cost Talks Continue
Published: 2025-11-18
Oyu Tolgoi’s Board of Directors is set to meet this week to appoint a new chief executive, following the planned departure of current head Deirdre Lingenfelder next month. The search is underway internally as the government and Rio Tinto continue negotiations to reduce the project’s loan interest and management fees—key cost drivers for the underground expansion. Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar held both virtual and in-person meetings with Rio Tinto Copper chief Katie Jackson in recent days to consolidate positions on boosting Mongolia’s return from the project. He urged decoupling the interest-rate issue from the licensing matter involving Ontra LLC and signaled support for a Mongolian national to lead the company to better reflect state interests.
“The loan interest should be addressed separately from the Ontra LLC special license issue.” - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (unuudur.mn)
“Appointing a Mongolian citizen as CEO would be an important step to fully represent our national interests.” - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (unuudur.mn)
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Fuel Supply Stabilized; Government Rules Out Price Hike as Refinery Timeline Accelerates
Published: 2025-11-18
Mongolia’s Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources said nationwide fuel supply is steady and prices will not increase, citing fixed-price imports and expanded logistics. State Secretary B. Dashpurev confirmed a deal to regularly import AI-92 gasoline from Russia at $705/ton and ongoing purchases from China. He added that storage capacity is being expanded, with budget support earmarked in the 2026 plan, and rail intake has doubled to about 120 wagons per day to rebuild reserves and address recent regional shortages. The government is fast-tracking the long-delayed oil refinery, targeting commissioning by late 2027 to cover up to 70% of domestic fuel demand. A separate case alleging coordinated price increases among several firms remains in court.
“Fuel supply is continuous and there is no condition for prices to rise” - B. Dashpurev, State Secretary, Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources (unuudur.mn)
“We aim to commission the oil refinery by the end of 2027, which would enable Mongolia to meet about 70% of its fuel needs” - B. Dashpurev, State Secretary, Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources (unuudur.mn)
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Central Bank Pushes Value-Added Finance as Cashmere Exports Lag at Final-Product Stage
Published: 2025-11-18
The Bank of Mongolia convened lenders, industry associations, and IFIs to expand value-added financing for the cashmere supply chain, a sector generating over 30% of non-mineral export revenue yet exporting only 8.4% as finished goods. Governor B. Lkhagvasuren set a goal to rebalance exports toward a 50:50 split between mining and non-mining, urging investment in spinning and garment capacity after a nationwide shift to exporting only combed cashmere. Washed cashmere sells for about $30/kg, rising to $105 after combing, and to $1.4 billion as finished apparel, underscoring untapped gains comparable to Oyu Tolgoi’s 2022 copper export value. Policy tools now include contract-based lending and the “White Gold” program, which plans MNT 1.5 trillion in concessional credit through 2026. IFIs signaled larger market-rate funding windows, contingent on bankable proposals from the sector.
“We aim to bring mining and other exports to a 50:50 balance and will support financing at each stage to add value in non-mining products, especially agriculture-based goods.” - B. Lkhagvasuren, Governor of the Bank of Mongolia (gogo.mn)
“Firms can now secure loans against business contracts, opening new access to working capital across the supply chain.” - B. Dulamzayaa, Department Director, Bank of Mongolia (gogo.mn)
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Rapid Market Expansion Contrasts With Weak Investor Confidence and Governance Risks
Published: 2025-11-18
Mongolia’s stock market valuation reached MNT 13 trillion at end-2024 with total trading of MNT 10.5 trillion; securities trading alone rose to MNT 1.5 trillion—double year-on-year and 24.2 times 2020. Yet banks still dominate 90% of finance and deposits exceed MNT 30 trillion, highlighting shallow capital markets and fragile trust. Retail sentiment is subdued by thin dividends, falling bank share prices, and attempts by some listed companies to shift to limited liability status, which could disadvantage minority shareholders. Market leaders urge policy fixes: tax incentives, pension-channelled long-term investing, stricter governance and disclosure, deeper liquidity, and digital access. They also call for enabling foreign investors and reforming state-run market infrastructure. 2012’s foreign participation near 90% has dwindled to about 10%, reflecting policy inconsistency and slow decision-making. Bond yields near 18–20% have diverted capital from equities.
“We must expand via tax incentives and pension savings, improve transparency and liquidity, and let citizens invest directly by phone.” - G. Enkhbat, Chairman, Mongolian Securities Dealers Association (unuudur.mn)
“Foreign investors were about 90% in 2012; now it’s barely 10%, due to political uncertainty and sluggish, unstable policy.” - B. Ulziibayar, CEO, Ulzii & Co Capital (unuudur.mn)
“No company can pay 20% dividends; with high-yield bonds, firms will prioritize reinvestment over payouts for years.” - L. Erkhembayar, CEO, Tumen Shuvuut (unuudur.mn)
“Channel some state concessional programs through capital markets to diversify beyond bank-dominated finance.” - A. Batpurev, financial analyst and economist (unuudur.mn)
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Food Industry Drive Doubles Capacity at Gazar Shim Factory, Adds Import-Substituting Lines
Published: 2025-11-18
President U. Khurelsukh and Food, Agriculture and Light Industry Minister J. Enkhbayar inspected Gazar Shim, a local producer that expanded under the national “Food Revolution” program. Leveraging concessional financing, the company upgraded equipment, expanded facilities and inventory, and launched five import-substituting products—baby puree, mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet chili and pasta sauces. Annual output rose to 10.8 million units, up 44% from 2023, with overall production capacity doubled. A 2,400-ton cold storage and deep-freeze complex is ready to open, and a wastewater treatment unit with 6 tons-per-hour capacity is operational. The company projects a 35.6% increase in 2025 sales revenue, indicating stronger domestic supply and reduced reliance on imported condiments and baby foods as the government pushes for greater food self-sufficiency.
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Bayankhongor Training Outlines Non‑judicial Options for Recovering State-Backed Loans
Published: 2025-11-18
Authorities in Bayankhongor organized a workshop on resolving repayments of government-issued loans and financing through non-judicial procedures. Thirty officials responsible for collections from employment support funds, projects, and programs participated—nine in person and 21 online. The session was held under a memorandum of understanding between the State Audit Office and the local branch of the Mongolian Notary Chamber. Representatives from the Labor and Social Welfare Department, the Bayankhongor Industrial Development Corporation, soum cooperatives, SME specialists, and the Mongolian University of Life Sciences presented how notarized demand notices can be used to secure partial repayments and standardize approaches. Participants deepened their understanding of legal frameworks and the role of notarial notices, while exchanging experiences on implementing repayment measures tied to state financing. Such coordination aims to improve recoveries and reduce reliance on court proceedings in rural administrations.
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Economist Warns 2026 Budget Risks Inflation and Wasteful Spending Without Targeted Investments
Published: 2025-11-18
Economist B. Enkh-Amgalan, associate professor at NUM Business School, says the newly approved 2026 state budget repeats a deficit approach (about MNT 1 trillion, ~1% of GDP) and could fuel inflation if salary, pension, and benefit hikes inject cash without matching productivity. He notes inflation reached 9.2% in October, with food prices rising, and warns it could move into double digits depending on domestic capacity, credit dynamics, and external balances. He urges shifting public investment toward energy modernization and mineral-based industrial parks—especially copper—rather than low-return roads and buildings. Coal revenue has dropped roughly USD 3 billion on price and volume, while copper earnings rose by USD 1.2 billion; foreign reserves stand at USD 5.9 billion and the tugrik has slightly strengthened. He expects tight monetary policy to persist given fiscal expansion.
“If we fail to allocate investment correctly, inefficient budget spending will only increase.” - B. Enkh-Amgalan, economist (news.mn)
“Given the budget’s expansion, the Bank of Mongolia’s tight monetary stance is likely to continue.” - B. Enkh-Amgalan, economist (news.mn)
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Diplomacy
Russia Pledges More Fuel Supplies as PM Zandanshatar Courts Energy and Corridor Deals in Moscow
Published: 2025-11-18
Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar joined the SCO heads of government meeting in Moscow and held bilateral talks with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and is set to meet China’s Premier Li Qiang. Zandanshatar emphasized priority projects traversing Mongolia, including the Russia–China gas pipeline and the China–Mongolia–Russia Economic Corridor, positioning the country as a logistics hub for Asia–Europe trade and cooperation in infrastructure, energy, and humanitarian initiatives. Russia signaled continued energy support despite broader export limits, a key assurance for Mongolia’s fuel security, and both sides agreed to convene the intergovernmental commission in Ulaanbaatar within the year to advance trade, industrial, and technical ties. At the SCO session, Zandanshatar highlighted collaboration on climate, desertification, and water initiatives ahead of Mongolia hosting UNCCD COP17 in 2026.
“Russia has imposed certain restrictions on fuel exports, but this does not apply to Mongolia; supplies will remain stable and volumes will increase.” - Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin (montsame.mn)
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Russia to Boost Fuel Deliveries to Mongolia Following Ministerial Talks in Moscow
Published: 2025-11-18
Mongolia’s Industry and Mining Minister G. Damdinnyam met Russia’s Energy Minister Sergey Tsivilev in Moscow during the SCO meetings and agreed to increase petroleum imports to Mongolia. Ulaanbaatar has faced intermittent domestic shortages, heightening reliance on Russian supply that currently covers most of the market. The Russian side emphasized both rising Mongolian demand and a commitment to fulfill obligations under the bilateral intergovernmental agreement on oil product supply, signaling continuity and higher volumes. The assurance reduces near-term supply risk for transport, mining, and construction sectors while broader diversification efforts, including Mongolia’s nascent refinery project, remain medium-term.
“We will continue stable and reliable supplies, honoring our intergovernmental commitments on oil products.” - Sergey Tsivilev, Russia’s Energy Minister (ikon.mn)
“Despite our internal shortages, Russia has ensured uninterrupted deliveries to our country.” - G. Damdinnyam, Minister of Industry and Mining (gogo.mn)
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UN General Assembly Adopts Updated Resolution to Improve Lives of Rural Girls and Women
Published: 2025-11-18
The UN General Assembly’s Third Committee approved an updated resolution initiated by Mongolia to enhance the well‑being of rural girls and women, reflecting concerns that global gender goals remain off-track. The measure urges governments, civil society, and stakeholders to strengthen social protection and access to public services—especially infrastructure, education, and healthcare—for rural women, while expanding economic opportunities and recognizing unpaid care work. It highlights vulnerabilities to poverty, environmental degradation, and climate change, and calls for inclusive decision-making that ensures women’s equal and substantive participation. Backed by broad multiregional support, the resolution lists 98 co-sponsoring countries. The initiative aligns with the 30-year review of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and responds to compounding pressures from economic, financial, and food crises and the demands of technological transitions.
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Infrastructure
Ulaanbaatar Advances Ring Road Program with Tender for First Ring and Feasibility Work on Second
Published: 2025-11-18
Ulaanbaatar is progressing its two-ring road scheme to ease chronic congestion and decentralize traffic flows. The city launched an international tender in September to build the First Ring Road, budgeted at about $918 million (3.2 trillion MNT), spanning five districts and requiring land acquisition across 3,029 plots with compensation. Studies project congestion in the city center falling 20–25%, average speeds rising by 4.8–5.5 km/h, and traffic accident losses halving once operational. Authorities also forecast 3,540 direct and 14,160 indirect jobs, with broader gains in green space and reduced dust emissions. In parallel, a feasibility study for the Second Ring Road is underway, routing in the west from the 22nd checkpoint to Bayankhoshuu to link with the First Ring, and in the east through Uliastai–Gachuurt to intersect the Tuul expressway, cutting eastern-area delays by up to 30% and shifting up to 5,000 vehicles per day from key corridors.
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Ulaanbaatar Demolishes Blast-Damaged Apartment Block, Plans Rebuild Pending Liability Ruling
Published: 2025-11-18
Ulaanbaatar authorities report 70% completion in demolishing the 13‑story “207th” apartment block in Bayanzürkh District, damaged by a gas explosion in January 2023 near Dunjingarav Trade Center. The city contracted the municipal “Construction Waste Recycling Plant” to dismantle the structure after state inspectors deemed repairs unviable. Demolition began September 5. The capital is fronting costs—estimated at MNT 2.4 billion for demolition and MNT 12.3 billion to rebuild—while a court determines liability and cost recovery from responsible parties. This approach seeks to expedite resident compensation and site renewal without waiting for litigation to conclude, reflecting a proactive municipal stance on urban safety incidents. The case also underscores regulatory emphasis on hazardous cargo handling and potential shifts in insurance and compliance requirements for transporters and developers once accountability is assigned.
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Baganuur Battery Storage Delivers 61 GWh to Central Grid, Easing Peak Demand Pressure
Published: 2025-11-18
Ulaanbaatar’s first grid-scale battery storage facility in Baganuur has supplied about 61 GWh to Mongolia’s central power system since entering service on December 5, 2024, according to city authorities. The 50 MW plant charges during low night-time demand and discharges during daytime peaks, helping bridge a 300–400 MW gap between off-peak and peak loads. Officials note the asset provides dispatchable power independent of weather, complementing intermittent solar and wind. By capacity, the system could cover four hours of consumption for roughly 25,000 Ulaanbaatar households, underscoring its role in peak shaving and grid stability. The project was constructed by China’s Envision Energy and funded in part by a 293.5 billion MNT municipal bond, signaling growing use of storage in Mongolia’s grid modernization and potentially reducing reliance on costly imports and fossil-based peakers during high-demand periods.
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Selbe Subcenter Housing Moves Ahead, First Residents Expected by July 2027
Published: 2025-11-18
Construction at Ulaanbaatar’s Selbe subcenter is advancing, with foundations underway for 82 of 113 planned apartment blocks in a development targeting 8,565 households across 158 hectares. The project, budgeted at MNT 1.6 trillion, aims to deliver the first handovers by July 2027, alongside commissioning of schools and kindergartens by autumn 2027 to support population inflow. Developers plan to complete housing and engineering infrastructure for roughly 8,500 units within 24 months. The initial 4,362 units are being built by China Construction 6th Engineering Bureau, which set April 2, 2027 as its completion date and outlined a mixed workforce model with 60–70% Mongolian labor.
“By July 2027, the first group of residents will have moved into their apartments, with schools and kindergartens operational by that autumn.” - U. Baatar, CEO, Selbe 20-Minute City Corporation (ikon.mn)
“We will fully complete construction by April 2, 2027, with 60–70% of the workforce being Mongolian.” - Tian Guo Yin, Director, China Construction 6th Engineering Bureau (ikon.mn)
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Society
Police Probe Facebook Lottery Scam That Stole MNT 8.3 Million After OTP Disclosure
Published: 2025-11-18
Mongolian police are investigating a growing wave of social media scams in which fraudsters pose as lottery organizers, lure victims with claims of large cash prizes, and extract personal and banking data, including one-time passwords (OTP). On November 4, an unidentified suspect contacted a Facebook user and convinced them they had “won MNT 60 million,” then obtained the victim’s OTP and executed 11 transactions totaling MNT 8,314,500. The National Police Agency warns users to protect their social media and banking credentials, avoid sharing personal information, and refrain from engaging with online lottery links. The incident highlights persistent vulnerabilities in digital literacy and authentication practices, with OTP interception enabling rapid unauthorized transfers. Authorities emphasize preventive measures and continued monitoring of cyber-enabled fraud schemes. Source: National Police Agency (gogo.mn).
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Multi-vehicle Collision Involving Public Bus Injures Passengers at Bayankhoshuu Roundabout
Published: 2025-11-18
A traffic collision at the Bayankhoshuu roundabout in Ulaanbaatar’s Sükhbaatar District involved a Yutong public bus and three cars (Fuso and Prius models), leaving several passengers injured, according to police. Authorities reported no fatalities. The incident highlights ongoing road safety concerns in busy intersections where public transport and private vehicles converge, particularly during peak hours. While details on the cause and the number of injured were not disclosed, police indicated that further information will follow. Such multi-vehicle crashes can disrupt major commuter corridors in western Ulaanbaatar, affecting service reliability and prompting temporary diversions. Businesses and commuters should anticipate potential delays in the area as police manage the scene and conduct an investigation. No official statements have yet outlined contributing factors such as speed, weather, or mechanical failure.
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Private Kindergarten Shut as Police Probe Alleged Child Restraint Incident in Ulaanbaatar
Published: 2025-11-18
Ulaanbaatar authorities have closed the “Sansar Garden” kindergarten and police have opened an investigation after images allegedly showed a teacher restraining a child with tape. Deputy Mayor A. Amartuvshin said the incident came to light when parents saw a photo in the class group on November 11, prompting them to review security footage and alert Khan-Uul district police. Inspectors found the facility closed with a broken outer glass door and noted the school operates two groups serving 35 children with limited staff. A state education inspector confirmed oversight is ongoing, and police have seized video evidence and are questioning the teacher. The deputy mayor signaled administrative consequences for the institution alongside potential criminal liability for the teacher, stressing zero tolerance for abusive practices.
“The police will hold the teacher accountable, and legal measures will be taken against the kindergarten’s operations. Such misconduct cannot be tolerated.” - A. Amartuvshin, Deputy Mayor of Ulaanbaatar (isee.mn)
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Environment
Published: 2025-11-18
At COP30 in Belém, Mongolia’s environment minister B. Batbaatar is set to present the country’s updated NDC 3.0, targeting a 30.3% cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2035, while canvassing partners on climate resilience and finance. The delegation is simultaneously courting backing for hosting UNCCD COP17 in Ulaanbaatar in 2026, with planned meetings with GEF, GCF, UNEP, FAO, the EU and regional partners to expand technical and funding cooperation. Batbaatar outlined three COP17 initiatives—pastureland leadership, integrated water–land management, and nature-based infrastructure—to align land, climate, and biodiversity agendas and scale landscape restoration globally (montsame.mn; news.mn; urug.mn).
“Infrastructure must be climate-resilient, nature-friendly, and support smart land relations.” - B. Batbaatar, Minister of Environment and Climate Change (montsame.mn)
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Seasonal Outlook Points to Colder North and Warmer Southwest Through February
Published: 2025-11-18
Mongolia’s national weather agency forecasts a split winter pattern: colder-than-average conditions across northern and northeastern provinces, with warmer-than-average temperatures in parts of the southwest, and near-average elsewhere. In December, central and eastern aimags (including Huvsgul, Bulgan, Selenge, Tuv, Khentii, Dornod) are expected to run colder than normal, while Khovd, Govi-Altai, southern Bayankhongor, and Umnogovi trend warmer. Precipitation in December is likely above average in much of the central and eastern belt and below average in parts of the west and southwest. January temperatures should be broadly near normal, except for warmer-than-average pockets in Govi-Altai, southern Bayankhongor, and western Umnogovi, with above-normal snowfall favored in several western and central areas. By February, colder-than-average conditions are expected in mountainous Hangaï, Huvsgul, and Khentii regions, while the southeast is favored for above-normal precipitation. The outlook suggests localized heating demand and logistics impacts in colder northern highlands, with potential transport disruptions where snowfall is elevated.
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Severe Air Pollution Spikes in Ulaanbaatar’s Bayankhoshuu, AQI Peaks Above 430
Published: 2025-11-18
Ulaanbaatar recorded sharp air quality deterioration on Tuesday morning, with Bayankhoshuu posting the city’s worst readings. At 09:00, monitoring stations showed an AQI of 201 in Bayankhoshuu—classified as very unhealthy—before escalating to over 430 by 11:00, a level associated with serious health risks. Data from agaar.mn indicated generally poor air quality across most districts, while areas such as Nisekh, Misheel Expo, and the Bogd Khan Museum remained within normal ranges at times. Health guidance advises residents to avoid outdoor physical activity, stay indoors when possible, wear masks, keep distance from high carbon monoxide sources like busy roads, and for those with chronic conditions to monitor blood pressure and adhere to medication. The seasonal onset of coal and biomass burning in ger districts typically drives such spikes, affecting mobility and outdoor work planning for businesses.
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Sanitation Advocates Urge Phaseout of Pit Latrines as Tests Find Fecal Bacteria in Ulaanbaatar Rivers
Published: 2025-11-18
Mongolia’s Toilet Association and the Water Agency marked World Toilet Day by calling for an overhaul of pit latrines, citing widespread soil and water contamination and public‑health risks. The groups say about 60% of the population lives in ger districts that largely depend on noncompliant wooden pit toilets; in Ulaanbaatar, roughly 200,000 households’ facilities are 80% below standard, with 144,992 pits recorded. Officials reported fecal coliform detected at multiple points on the Tuul and Selbe rivers, warning of disease transmission and unsafe groundwater near dense clusters of pits and wells. Economic costs from inaction are estimated at MNT 325 billion annually. Advocates urged clearer legal frameworks, coordinated management, and adoption of low‑water, hygienic technologies, framing sanitation as critical to health, environment, and urban livability.
“We must stop using pit latrines; Ulaanbaatar now has around 680,000 of them, and tests from all sampled river sites showed fecal bacteria.” - Z. Batbayar, Head of the Water Agency (ikon.mn)
“Because we haven’t solved sanitation, we incur MNT 325 billion in losses each year.” - D. Basandorj, President, Mongolia Toilet Association (ikon.mn)
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Innovation
Published: 2025-11-18
Google Pay has been officially introduced in Mongolia, with Golomt Bank and Trade and Development Bank (TDB) enabling customers to add Mastercard and T-branded cards to Google Wallet for contactless payments on Android and Wear OS, in stores and online. Fintech Bonum announced it is Google Wallet’s local enabler and a Mastercard principal member, supporting broader ecosystem rollout; Sono Fintech also launched a Google Pay–compatible international digital credit card. The central bank underscores tokenization and biometric security, building on a national EMV chip migration that prepared banks for global wallets. Officials frame the launch as both consumer convenience and a boost to tourism and digital trade as Android users constitute a large local base.
“Google Pay is the next step to provide safer and smarter financial services to our customers.” - O. Orkhon, CEO, Trade and Development Bank (ikon.mn)
“This is a significant step aligning Mongolia’s payment systems with global standards, enabling fast, secure mobile payments at home and abroad.” - B. Lkhagvasuren, Governor, Bank of Mongolia (montsame.mn)
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Remote Border Settlements Open First “Bag” Primary Schools with Khaan Bank Backing
Published: 2025-11-18
Two new primary schools have opened at Uvs Province’s Davst/Borshoo border post and Khovd’s Uench frontier unit under the “Bag Primary School” initiative led by the Ministry of Education and UNICEF, financed by Khaan Bank. Each school accommodates 75 pupils and features climate-resilient infrastructure, sanitation, a kitchen for the school meal program, arts and sports spaces, high-speed internet (Starlink in some reports), and renewable energy elements. The model aims to reduce prolonged family separation for rural children; only 44 of Mongolia’s 1,575 bags currently have primary schools, leaving over 36,000 children studying away from home for most of the year. Organizers target about 60 bag-level schools nationwide by 2027, with Khaan Bank funding four sites.
“These model schools lay the groundwork for every Mongolian child to access quality education regardless of where they live.” - Evariste Kouassi-Komlan, UNICEF Representative (montsame.mn)
“This initiative aligns with Khaan Bank’s values to grow together with society and the economy.” - R. Munkhtuya, CEO of Khaan Bank and UNICEF National Ambassador (gogo.mn)
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AI Traffic Camera Network to Begin Issuing Fines in Ulaanbaatar from January 1
Published: 2025-11-18
Ulaanbaatar will activate a citywide AI traffic enforcement system on January 1, following a testing phase across 176 signalized intersections with 1,606 cameras funded by the 2024 city budget. The system detects 10 types of violations, including license plate restrictions, fake registrations, instantaneous speed, and illegal turns across continuous white lines. Authorities say fines will start on January 1 after trial operations conclude. Public reporting via the 102 app remains active, with 84,000 violations logged since November 1. Safety initiatives are expanding as winter hazards intensify: the “Yellow Flag” campaign equips pedestrian crossings without signals with reflective flags to improve driver visibility, targeting a rise in child injuries and fatalities this year. Recent snow has doubled weekend crash calls in the capital, and police advise reduced speeds and avoiding unofficial shortcuts or frozen waterways.
“We plan to operate the camera system at full capacity from January 1 next year, and fines will be imposed from that date.” - D. Gankhuyag, Senior Coordinator, Traffic Police Preventive Unit (itoim.mn)
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Mogul Service Secures Dual ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 Certification, Elevating Quality and Data Security Benchmarks
Published: 2025-11-18
Mogul Service has obtained both ISO 9001 (quality management) and ISO 27001 (information security management) certifications, positioning the ICT provider among a limited group in Mongolia to integrate these globally recognized standards. The dual certification signals strengthened governance over service quality and data protection—key for enterprise and public-sector clients using the company’s cloud-based managed services. Established in 2013, the firm employs certified engineers from global vendors including Microsoft, Google, Dell, HPE, and Canon. Compliance with ISO 9001 supports continuous improvement and customer satisfaction, while ISO 27001 underpins confidentiality, integrity, and availability controls against internal and external threats. The achievement is expected to enhance operational resilience, regulatory compliance, and business continuity, potentially improving competitiveness and trust with multinational partners engaging Mongolia’s ICT market.
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Health
Pediatric flu cases surge with higher fevers and GI symptoms; H3N2 and adenovirus drive nationwide uptick
Published: 2025-11-18
Seasonal flu activity has intensified across Mongolia, straining pediatric services and hitting families’ work schedules. Nationally, 5.1% of 281,624 outpatient visits (14,308 cases) were influenza or influenza-like illness (ILI), with 79.2% in children under 15 and more than half in under‑fives. Hospitalizations include 1,342 severe acute respiratory infections. Lab surveillance shows multiple viruses circulating: adenovirus (44%), influenza A/H3N2 (28%), rhinovirus (12%), bocavirus (12%), and parainfluenza (4%). Clinicians report faster-onset illness with higher fevers and gastrointestinal symptoms. A family doctor noted that pediatric cases have doubled since October, with some children reaching 40–40.6°C, prompting calls for prompt clinical care and renewed masking and hygiene. Pediatric emergency volumes exceed 500 daily at EHSUT, with half linked to ILI, indicating sustained pressure on urban facilities and potential productivity losses for caregivers.
“Children are spiking very high fevers, with severe headaches, diarrhea, and vomiting—seek medical care promptly if these signs appear.” - Dr. B. Guen, pediatric emergency physician (eagle.mn)
“This season’s flu is progressing faster and with higher fevers—up to 40.6°C—especially in younger children; parents should not delay seeing a doctor.” - Dr. G. Enkhjargal, family physician (news.mn)
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Antibiotic Misuse Drives Rise in Drug-Resistant Infections, Regulator Warns
Published: 2025-11-18
Mongolia’s drug regulator reports a shift toward more potent, last-resort antibiotics, signaling worsening antimicrobial resistance and treatment challenges. Over the past three years, use of first-line, broad-spectrum antibiotics declined 14.5%, while use of reserve antibiotics rose 17%, a pattern officials link to inappropriate prescribing and self-medication. The Drug and Medical Devices Regulatory Agency says misuse is three times higher than the global average, narrowing therapeutic options and eroding care quality. The trend raises the risk of higher mortality from drug-resistant infections, with implications for hospital protocols, procurement, and national stewardship efforts. Policymakers may need stricter prescribing controls, surveillance, and public awareness to curb resistance and preserve clinical efficacy.
“In Mongolia, inappropriate antibiotic use is three times the international average. Going forward, choices for treating diseases will diminish, and deaths related to antibiotic resistance are likely to increase.” - N. Erdenebayar, head of the Drug and Medical Devices Regulatory Agency (gogo.mn)
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City deploys repair teams to seal household stoves as carbon monoxide risks rise before heating season
Published: 2025-11-18
Ulaanbaatar authorities are stepping up pre-winter safety checks in Bayanzürkh District, where municipal repair teams are servicing wall stoves and chimneys, sealing leaks, and inspecting carbon monoxide detectors. Technicians report frequent faults from improperly resealed stoves after soot cleaning, which can create gaps and leak carbon monoxide. Elderly and disabled residents face higher risk due to delayed service requests, while households capable of minor repairs are urged to properly plaster and maintain airtight seals. Technicians also recommend insulating metal chimneys above rooflines to prevent condensation. Deputy Mayor A. Amartüvshin emphasized electrical safety after incidents where faulty wiring triggered detectors:
“Keep your carbon monoxide detector continuously on and ensure electrical wiring is safe to protect your family from potential hazards.” - A. Amartüvshin, Deputy Mayor (gogo.mn)
Teams advised annual stove and chimney cleaning before the heating season, noting smaller wall stoves clog faster and need more frequent maintenance.
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Fact-check Rebuts Activist’s Claim That HPV Vaccine Is a “Biological Weapon”
Published: 2025-11-18
FACTCHECK.mn debunked assertions made at an NGO briefing urging parents to refuse vaccinations, particularly the HPV shot for 11-year-olds. The fact-check details Gardasil’s composition used in Mongolia—produced by Merck in the Netherlands—and explains the function and safety of components such as aluminum adjuvant, polysorbate 80, and sodium compounds, noting no antibiotics or preservatives are included. It clarifies thimerosal’s ethylmercury differs from environmental methylmercury and has been removed from routine pediatric vaccines in the U.S. since 2001, with limited use in some flu vaccines. The piece contrasts vaccines’ preventive purpose with the internationally banned use of biological weapons, and cites a 2024 Lancet analysis estimating immunization programs prevented 154 million deaths over 50 years.
“Behind the word vaccine there are always toxic substances and chemical reactions. Vaccines are biological weapons… millions have been killed or disabled worldwide.” - J. Zanaa, human rights researcher (gogo.mn)
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