Politics
Justice Minister Refers Gashuunsukhait Concession Case to Prosecutors and Anti-Corruption Agency
Published: 2026-02-12
Justice and Home Affairs Minister B. Enkhbayar has forwarded case files to the Prosecutor General’s Office, the Independent Authority Against Corruption, and the National Police over alleged illegal advantages granted to “Smart Eco Trans” LLC at the Gashuunsukhait border crossing. The review cites government decisions in 2022 that allegedly awarded the firm, without tender, rights to operate an automated container terminal and control the state-owned 19–19.2 km Tsagaan Khad–Gashuunsukhait road, collecting fees and earning substantial profits. Authorities will examine claims that land within the protected border zone—reported as granted on an open-ended basis—was improperly allocated. The probe targets both company benefits and potential official misconduct. Enkhbayar linked the case to broader coal-sector abuses and said enforcement intensified under the current cabinet.
“The Oyun-Erdene cabinet granted Smart Eco Trans terminal and operational rights without tender, restricted transparency and competition, and allowed the company to set road tariffs and profit; this may constitute serious legal violations.” - Justice and Home Affairs Minister B. Enkhbayar (news.mn)
“In just two years, Smart Eco Trans made MNT 95.7 billion in profit by effectively pricing state assets in the border area; criminal cases have now been initiated against the individuals involved.” - Justice and Home Affairs Minister B. Enkhbayar (news.mn)
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Government Orders Round-the-Clock Safety Measures for Lunar New Year, Bans Planned Power Outages
Published: 2026-02-12
The Cabinet directed agencies to maintain uninterrupted essential services and heightened public safety during Lunar New Year, citing increased travel, home heating, electricity and gas use, and heavier road traffic. Orders include nationwide high alert for fire and weather-related incidents; expanded patrols and fire-watch in ger districts; 24/7 rescue and firefighting coverage; and continuous public advisories on stoves, chimneys, electric heaters, and household gas. The Energy Minister was told to ensure reliable operation of power and heating networks and prohibit planned maintenance or electricity restrictions. Urban authorities must prevent failures in heating and water networks and keep rapid-repair teams on call. Transport and law enforcement will intensify checks against drunk and speeding drivers, add highway posts at accident-prone points, and ensure snow/ice clearance. Health services will add ambulances and physicians and issue food safety and alcohol-related warnings. A new National Center for Disease Control and Prevention was endorsed to consolidate surveillance and risk assessment across public health bodies, with operations targeted from May.
“A national CDC is an early-warning system that protects the country from risk, not a place to treat diseases after they occur.” - Health Minister J. Chinburen (unuudur.mn)
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Petition to Directly Elect Ulaanbaatar Mayor Draws Fewer Than 10,000 Signatures with Days Remaining
Published: 2026-02-12
A citizen-initiated proposal to let Ulaanbaatar residents directly elect the city’s Mayor has gathered about 8,300 signatures since posting on the DParliament.mn platform on January 15, far short of the 100,000 required for parliamentary consideration. The petition, led by citizen M. Törtogtokh, closes in three days. It argues that the current appointment model—where the Capital City Governor/Mayor is effectively selected following parliamentary elections—prioritizes party and parliamentary interests over urban governance continuity, contributing to policy volatility on congestion, air pollution, land management, roads, public transport, and green space. The appeal seeks amendments to the Law on Administrative and Territorial Units, the Law on the Legal Status of the Capital City, and related election laws to establish direct, free, and fair mayoral elections.
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Cabinet Voids Illegal Land Grants Near Ten Border Ports After Probe
Published: 2026-02-12
The government annulled decrees that had unlawfully allocated 34,227 hectares within 0.9–2.5 km of Mongolia’s border around ten ports, including Gashuunsukhait, Hangi, Shivee Khuren, and Bichigt. Justice Minister B. Enkhbayar said the plots—comparable to all built-up land in Ulaanbaatar—were handed to a handful of companies such as “Smart Eco Trans,” masked as “port development” and “economic support.” He identified 2022 decrees No. 95 and 349 and a 2025 decree No. 262 as violating the law, and named former Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene and several current and former senior officials as involved.
“These decrees illegally allocated land in the border zone under the guise of development and economic support.” - Justice Minister B. Enkhbayar (news.mn)
Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar ordered an investigation, and the matter will be presented to the National Security Council for law-enforcement review, signaling heightened scrutiny of resource logistics at key crossings.
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State Audit Launches Probe into Public Funds Held in Commercial Banks
Published: 2026-02-12
The National Audit Office has initiated a performance audit into how public funds are managed within commercial banks. The review covers free cash balances of government special funds and deposits from state and locally owned enterprises, assessing whether these were placed with minimal financial risk and achieved adequate returns. Oversight mechanisms and performance measurement for accounts and deposits held by special funds and state entities will also be examined. The audit will involve the Ministry of Finance, the State Property Policy and Coordination Agency, Erdenes Mongol, budget governors, the Bank of Mongolia, and other relevant bodies. Scope includes 27 government special funds and deposits placed by state and local enterprises in selected commercial banks during 2023–2025. Findings could affect treasury cash management practices, bank relationships, and governance standards for state-linked deposits.
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Prosecutors Finalize Bribery Probe Tied to Ulaanbaatar–Darkhan Road Tender
Published: 2026-02-12
Mongolian prosecutors have completed an additional investigation into Z. Buyannemekh over alleged bribery to involve China Geo-Engineering Corporation in the Ulaanbaatar–Darkhan highway tender and position his own company as a subcontractor. Investigators say he gave three million tugriks in cash and transferred a Lexus RX-350 (valued at 60 million tugriks) to a relative of H. Orgil-Erdene, then head of the Road Operation and Maintenance Division at the Ministry of Road and Transport Development and chair of the tender evaluation committee. Separately, Buyannemekh allegedly paid a 600,000-tugrik bribe to a court enforcement officer to temporarily lift his travel ban during debt enforcement against firms he founded. A lower court fined him 14 million tugriks in January 2024, but the appellate court ordered further inquiries. Prosecutors have now resubmitted the indictment to the first-instance criminal court covering Bayanzürkh, Sükhbaatar, and Chingeltei districts.
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Draft Law Proposed to Standardize Health and Safety in School Environments
Published: 2026-02-12
A UNICEF-commissioned rapid assessment highlights systemic safety gaps in Mongolia’s school environments, prompting calls for a dedicated law. The study found 51% of general education schools are near roads, 79% lack speed bumps, 33% have substandard fencing, 77.2% misuse land, 73.2% lack safe sports grounds, 13% pose fall risks, and 76.9% have exposed outdoor electrical wiring. In 2022, playgrounds at 670 kindergartens and 281 schools in Ulaanbaatar failed to meet MNS 6751:2019 and MNS ISO 8124:2010 standards. Advocates argue fragmented rules, weak oversight, and unclear accountability undermine children’s constitutional right to a healthy, safe environment. A draft “Law on Health and Safety of School Environments” seeks unified standards, defined responsibilities, and enforcement mechanisms, framing legal reform as essential to implementing constitutional guarantees. The draft is available on Parliament’s public portal for review.
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Published: 2026-02-12
Prosecutors have referred the case of G. Batdorj, former head of the Family, Child and Youth Development Agency, to the first-instance district criminal court covering Bayanzurkh, Sukhbaatar, and Chingeltei. The Anti-Corruption Agency’s investigative unit alleges Batdorj abused his authority during the COVID-19 period by bypassing procurement procedures to directly contract the “Bulgan Innovation Club” NGO for an influence campaign, and by channeling payments for other contracts through this NGO’s account, conferring undue advantage. The Capital City Prosecutor’s Office filed charges under Criminal Code 22.1-3, which targets public officials who abuse power causing significant damage, including those with political influence or leading state or locally owned entities. A conviction could entail serious penalties and would underscore heightened scrutiny of pandemic-era contracting practices.
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Published: 2026-02-12
A public push to end Mongolia’s 2% tax on real estate transfers has reached Parliament, with Speaker N. Uchral ordering a working group on February 28 to draft amendments that would repeal the levy. The move follows a petition led by lawyer Ts. Batkhuu that garnered 100,000 signatures but stalled at the Budget Standing Committee. Reform advocates argue Mongolia taxes property sales regardless of gain, unlike jurisdictions such as Germany and the U.S., which generally tax only capital gains and offer relief based on holding periods. The article also highlights disputes over personal income tax on insurance payouts for vehicle damage, framed as compensation rather than income in many countries. Spring session debates on the government’s tax package could determine whether these contentious provisions are revised.
“Members of Parliament lack the will to invalidate this tax.” - Lawyer Ts. Batkhuu (eagle.mn)
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Court Pauses Case Against Ex-Officials Z. Enkhbold and B. Enkh-Amgalan Until Next Month
Published: 2026-02-12
A primary criminal court covering Bayanzurkh, Sukhbaatar, and Chingeltei districts has suspended proceedings in the case involving former Presidential Office chief and ex-parliament speaker Z. Enkhbold and former transport minister and current MP B. Enkh-Amgalan until the 23rd of next month. The judges decided to conduct additional procedures in line with Criminal Procedure Law Article 34.16-5, which allows a one-time postponement of up to 60 days when reclassification or complaint issues arise. Prosecutors allege that while serving as transport minister, B. Enkh-Amgalan conspired with Z. Enkhbold to abuse office by upgrading a local gravel road from the Tavan Tolgoi mine (Umnugovi) to Sumber (Govi-Sumber) to national status and temporarily assigning it to “Ikh Delgemel Inguun” LLC, benefiting that company and “Strato,” said to be linked to Enkhbold’s associates. The panel, comprising Judges D. Suvd-Erdene, E. Chantsalnyam, and G. Uuganbaatar, reviewed the case on February 6, 9, and 10 before ordering further actions.
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Labor Ministry Unveils Overhaul of Occupational Safety and Health Law for Public Consultation
Published: 2026-02-12
The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection held a public discussion on a comprehensive revision of the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Law, aiming to modernize Mongolia’s framework after 18 years of economic and industrial change. Despite 12 amendments since 2008, industrial accidents and occupational diseases remain high, prompting a systemic update aligned with ILO Conventions 155, 167, and 176. The draft expands to 7 chapters and 64 articles, clarifying national OSH governance, integrating prevention, and consolidating accident and occupational disease reporting and rehabilitation. Key measures include risk-based workplace management, explicit requirements for confined spaces, work at heights, biological and ergonomic factors, and psychosocial risks, plus a unified digital OSH management system. Insurance reform would link premiums to prevention performance, offering incentives to compliant employers. The ministry plans broad stakeholder consultations before submitting the bill to Parliament.
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Economy
Police Arrest Duo Over Large-Scale Counterfeit Yuan and USD Scheme Targeting Lenders and Exchangers
Published: 2026-02-12
Mongolia’s Criminal Investigation Department detained a 34-year-old man and a 33-year-old woman accused of printing counterfeit foreign currency and defrauding victims through staged loans and attempted currency swaps. Investigators seized 148,558 fake Chinese 100-yuan notes and 1,614 fake US $100 bills—equivalent to approximately MNT 7.9 billion. The suspects allegedly displayed notes in dim settings, sent photos via chat, and used fabricated online banking receipts to simulate completed transfers. To build credibility, they reportedly rented a house, apartments, a Land Cruiser 300, and premium “9911” phone numbers. Authorities say the pair sought to borrow money and exchange fake notes when opportune. The case remains under investigation, with police urging verification of transfers within banking apps and careful inspection of foreign banknotes to prevent losses.
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Poverty Index Release Pushed to Late June as Methodology and Baseline Are Overhauled
Published: 2026-02-12
Mongolia’s new poverty figures—last reported for 2022 at 27.1%—are now expected by late June after extended validation with the National Statistics Office (NSO) and the World Bank. The NSO says the delay stems from two changes: adoption of the World Bank’s updated 2022 methodological guidance, which adds technical steps and deeper evaluations, and the 2022 revision of the national poverty line and consumption basket, replacing the 2010 baseline. These updates aim to improve accuracy but lengthen processing. The NSO has finalized household socio-economic survey data and published the open dataset; internal and external methodological councils are reviewing the calculations before public release. The forthcoming results will guide social policy and assess program effectiveness, particularly as prior sensitivity analysis showed that a 15% increase in the poverty line could add 10.3% of the population to poverty.
“We plan to announce the 2024 poverty index at the end of June after completing bilateral validation with the World Bank and our methodological councils.” - L. Undralaa, Head of Household-Based Surveys, NSO (itoim.mn)
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Mortgage Collateral Registration to Move Online After Regulator–Mortgage Corporation Talks
Published: 2026-02-12
The General Authority for State Registration’s Real Estate Rights Registration Department and the Mongolian Mortgage Corporation met on Feb. 12 to streamline data exchange and digitize procedures for mortgage collateral registration and release. The agencies aim to eliminate in-person visits to registration offices, allowing borrowers to complete collateral-related steps directly at their banks under forthcoming legal and regulatory updates. The parties also agreed to accelerate and simplify registration of “asset-backed securities collateral pools,” enhance inter-agency data sharing, and reduce manual workloads through digital workflows. If implemented, the shift could cut processing times and administrative friction for lenders and homebuyers while supporting secondary mortgage market operations. Officials from both the registration authority and the mortgage corporation, including IT directors and registration officers, participated, signaling a coordinated push toward end-to-end electronic processing across mortgage lifecycle steps.
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Diplomacy
Seoul Embassy Denies Claim That 50 Mongolian Nationals Were Turned Back at South Korean Border
Published: 2026-02-12
Mongolia’s Embassy in Seoul rejected social media claims that 50 Mongolian citizens were refused entry to South Korea on February 5, calling the reports unfounded. Embassy guidance underscores a rise in fraudulent visa brokerage targeting Mongolians seeking work in Korea, including offers of “coded” or labor visas for fees. Official data indicate that in January, South Korean immigration denied entry to six travelers using counterfeit medical S-3-3 or other fake visas, 14 attempting to enter the Schengen Area on B-2 visas, and one seeking visa-free entry. Authorities reiterated that visas do not guarantee admission, as border officers make final determinations. The embassy urged travelers to rely on official channels and report rights concerns during inspections through the embassy for referral to Korea’s Human Rights Commission and internal oversight bodies.
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Ulaanbaatar–Washington ties advance with push for more high-level visits and new MCC-style projects
Published: 2026-02-12
Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg met U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on February 5 in Washington, where both sides reaffirmed plans to deepen the “Strategic Third Neighbor” partnership. They agreed to increase the frequency of senior-level exchanges, strengthen people-to-people links, and expand practical cooperation in trade, mining, energy, telecommunications, and artificial intelligence. The meeting highlighted the MCC Second Compact, which is set to conclude in March and is projected to boost Ulaanbaatar’s water supply by 80%. Discussions turned to identifying follow-on initiatives in sectors of strategic importance to Mongolia, signaling continuity in U.S. development engagement. The emphasis on concrete, results-driven collaboration suggests upcoming proposals that could target infrastructure, energy security, and digital connectivity as both governments seek to translate political trust into tangible outcomes.
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Parliament Speaker Uchrаl’s Moscow Visit Advances EAEU Trade Deal, Business Ties, and Science Collaboration
Published: 2026-02-12
Parliament Speaker N. Uchral’s official visit to Russia centered on converting political goodwill into actionable economic and institutional cooperation. In Moscow, over 170 Mongolian and Russian companies joined a business forum where Uchral framed the new temporary trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) as a platform to cut non-tariff barriers, align standards, and lower market-entry costs for exporters in agriculture and light industry. A political scientist noted the pact zeroes tariffs on 667 agricultural products for three years once all five EAEU states ratify, with potential extension based on results. Uchral held formal talks with Federation Council Chair Valentina Matvienko on strengthening parliamentary mechanisms to support energy, logistics, and education ties, and met the Russian Academy of Sciences to expand joint research, including environmental studies on the Selenge–Baikal basin and the Egiin River hydropower assessment.
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Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg, China’s Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong Advance Strategic Dialogue and ‘One China’ Alignment
Published: 2026-02-12
Mongolia’s Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg met China’s Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong in Ulaanbaatar on February 11, endorsing the latest vice-ministerial strategic dialogue as a mechanism to deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and accelerate trade and economic cooperation. Battsetseg reaffirmed adherence to principles of mutual respect for sovereignty and non-interference, and reiterated support for the “One China” policy—signaling continued alignment on core sensitivities that underpin bilateral engagement. Sun conveyed Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s greetings and emphasized closer implementation of items discussed under the Strategic Dialogue. He noted Beijing’s forthcoming 15th Five-Year Plan will incorporate high-quality cooperation with Belt and Road partners, potentially expanding project opportunities.
“We will steadfastly support the ‘One China’ policy and develop cooperation across all sectors on the basis of mutual respect and mutual benefit.” - Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg (montsame.mn)
“China will work closely with Mongolia to successfully implement the outcomes of the Strategic Dialogue and pursue high-quality cooperation under the Belt and Road.” - Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong (montsame.mn)
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Ulaanbaatar, Moscow Discuss Jet Fuel Supply and Border Storage Lease Options
Published: 2026-02-12
During an official visit to Russia, Mongolia’s Minister of Mining and Heavy Industry G. Damdinnyam met Russian Energy Minister S. E. Tsivilyov to finalize options for an intergovernmental agreement on supplying aviation fuel to Mongolia. The sides also explored leasing storage near the Russian–Mongolian border to build strategic fuel reserves for Mongolia, agreeing in principle to cooperate on the arrangement. The talks suggest a push to stabilize Mongolia’s refined fuel and jet fuel security by locating inventory close to the supply source, potentially reducing transport risks and price volatility linked to logistics disruptions. The meeting concluded with a pledge to strengthen bilateral coordination and advance the countries’ strategic partnership, signaling that detailed terms on storage capacity, operators, and customs/transit procedures could follow in subsequent negotiations.
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Infrastructure
Ulaanbaatar to Issue up to MNT 200 Billion in Domestic Securities to Co-Finance Thermal Power Plant No. 5
Published: 2026-02-12
Ulaanbaatar has been authorized to raise up to MNT 200 billion through phased domestic securities issuance by 2026 to co-finance the Thermal Power Plant No. 5 project. The plant, budgeted at USD 658.5 million, will be funded 80% by Cambodia’s Mitime International, with the city covering the remaining 20%. Groundworks are slated to begin on the 15th of this month. The facility will comprise two 150 MW units, with installation planned in 2027 and phased commissioning in the first half of 2028. Authorities say the domestic issuance is intended to diversify funding sources and sequence cash needs. Once operational, the plant is expected to bolster reliability and meet Ulaanbaatar’s rising power demand, a critical issue as winter peak loads and urban growth strain the existing grid.
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Ulaanbaatar Advances 16 Mega Projects as Metro Tender Draws 27 Bidders and Aerial Cableway Hits Milestone
Published: 2026-02-12
Ulaanbaatar city officials reported synchronized progress across 16 mega projects, highlighting procurement and early works that could reshape mobility and utilities. The Metro project moved forward with 27 bidders responding to the construction tender, while the Tram project’s detailed environmental impact assessment is prepared for expert review. The Yarmag–Önör khoroolol aerial cableway segment reached 54% completion, with 14 of 19 pylons installed and most containers on site. The Tuul expressway begins earthworks on March 15 and bridge construction in mid‑April, following design and camp setup milestones. Bus Rapid Transit remains in feasibility verification with ADB engagement. Energy and waste-to-energy initiatives advanced permitting and tariff terms; land clearance for the Fifth Thermal Power Plant is 73% complete. Housing projects in Sèlbe, Khanin Material, and Bayankhoshuu proceed, alongside flood control, sludge incineration PPP, Emelt eco‑industrial park design, and the Tuul water complex studies. No direct official quotations were provided in the articles.
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Redevelopment Stalls at Central Ulaanbaatar Block as One Resident Challenges Contractor’s Capacity and Process
Published: 2026-02-12
Ulaanbaatar’s decision to redevelop Sukhbaatar District’s Building No. 26 has been delayed after 56 of 57 households relocated and one resident, G. Khurelsukh, refused, triggering legal action and a partial demolition. The city selected “Asian Ider Tsamkhag” LLC as contractor on August 4, 2025, and relocations began in September. Khurelsukh argues the process bypassed proper tendering and that the developer lacks financial guarantees.
“I’m not against redevelopment. I want the company to follow proper procedures. They offered no financial proof—just a table without seals—and the case is still in administrative court.” - G. Khurelsukh, resident (isee.mn)
Ulaanbaatar Housing Company head Z. Tömörtöömöö says the building is unsafe and the lone holdout has blocked work for seven months at economic cost to others.
“Fifty-six households have moved. One person’s refusal has stalled the project for seven months, imposing costs and forcing us to seek law-enforcement review.” - Z. Tömörtöömöö, director of Ulaanbaatar Housing Company (isee.mn)
The contractor reportedly offered the resident a large new unit, 20 m² commercial space, and two parking bays; he declined. Allegations have surfaced that a nearby developer may be influencing the dispute. Court outcomes will determine timing and terms of the project’s continuation.
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Society
Facebook Overtakes TV as Mongolians’ Primary News Source in Decade Shift
Published: 2026-02-12
A new UNESCO-backed assessment of Mongolia’s media landscape finds a decisive pivot to social platforms for current-affairs consumption over the past decade. The media user survey—part of UNESCO’s “Strengthening the Sustainability of Mongolia’s Media” initiative—shows Facebook now leads as the main source of news at 84%, while television has dropped to 45%. In 2015, TV dominated at 86%, ahead of news sites (58%) and social media (53%). By 2025, workplace peers (21%), family (20%), and Instagram (18%) trail far behind Facebook. The broader six-part study also examines transparency, content, journalists’ working conditions, leadership and policymaker interviews, and the legal environment. Findings aim to inform sector-wide discussions and recommendations as traditional media’s reach declines and platforms increasingly shape access to information and public discourse.
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Winter-Spring Horse Racing Ban Sends Trainers to Inner Mongolia as Debate Over Tradition and Child Safety Deepens
Published: 2026-02-12
Mongolia’s government has prohibited horse racing, training runs, and jumping events involving riders under 18 from October 1 to May 1 under Cabinet Resolution No. 41 (January 29, 2025), extending a 2019 seasonal ban. As winter and spring racing remains suspended domestically, some trainers now prepare and race horses in Inner Mongolia, sparking concerns about cultural practices shifting across the border. The “Dunjingarav” spring race is slated to resume on May 1, prompting early conditioning efforts and occasional disputes with police over child riding during the ban. One trainer argued that year-round preparation is essential and that safety gear now protects young riders:
“Many good trainers I know have gone to Inner Mongolia to race; our heritage is slowly moving to China. I hope the government reconsiders and restores winter racing.” - Horse trainer (isee.mn)
A young jockey expressed enthusiasm and family support for winter riding but noted missed opportunities during the holiday race window. The policy remains contentious, balancing child welfare against long-standing cultural sport traditions.
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Environment
Rescuers Warn Against Travel on Thinning River and Lake Ice After Eight Incidents Reported
Published: 2026-02-12
Mongolia’s emergency services report eight ice-breaking incidents on rivers and lakes since January 1, with four people rescued as of February 12. Five alerts originated in Khuvsgul Province, with one each in Zavkhan, Darkhan-Uul, and Ulaanbaatar’s Baganuur District. Authorities note ice thickness now varies widely along river lengths and lake surfaces due to weather patterns, heightening risk for pedestrians and vehicles. Seasonal spikes typically occur in January–April and November–December, when freeze–thaw conditions create hidden weak points in the ice. The National Emergency Management Agency advises avoiding shortcuts across frozen water bodies to prevent loss of life, injuries, and property damage. For logistics, tourism, and rural operations that rely on winter routes, contingency planning and alternative overland paths are recommended as conditions degrade unevenly and unpredictably.
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Severe Cold Snap and Blowing Snow Forecast as Front Moves Across North and East
Published: 2026-02-12
Mongolia’s weather agency warns of a sharp temperature drop and blowing snow as a cold front moves in: snowfall is expected in northern areas on Feb 13 and the eastern half on Feb 14, with blizzard conditions in places. Winds will strengthen over Altai mountains and the Gobi-steppe, reaching 14–17 m/s in exposed terrain. Daytime temperatures today hold near 0 to -2°C in Ulaanbaatar, but will plunge later in the week, with the coldest readings in high basins (Uvs and Darkhad) and river valleys. A short-lived warmup is projected during Lunar New Year, with milder, more stable conditions from Feb 16. The pattern implies potential travel disruptions on intercity roads and elevated risk for herders in open steppe zones; businesses should plan for logistics delays and cold-related power and water demand shifts.
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Authorities Warn of Dangerous Ice Fractures on Khuvsgul Lake as Vehicles Break Through
Published: 2026-02-12
Emergency services in Khuvsgul Province warned of a large “black fissure” on Khuvsgul Lake near Shivdegiin Am (Khanh soum), urging residents and drivers to avoid using ice routes. A black fissure occurs when lake ice splits, opening a water-filled gap; ice thickness remains uneven despite many waterways showing 35–165 cm cover nationwide, with some rivers thinning by 5–20 cm. Officials reported eight ice-breakthrough incidents nationwide since January, five in Khuvsgul, including a van that partially broke through near Rentchinlkhumbe on Feb 11; four occupants were rescued and the vehicle was recovered. The regional disaster agency links the large fissure to recent seismic tremors near Khanh. The peak risk period for ice incidents runs January–April, and authorities stress using certified roads and bridges instead of crossing frozen surfaces.
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Published: 2026-02-12
People in Need (PIN), with European Union funding, launched the “Twin Transition” program inviting civil society organizations (CSOs) in Ulaanbaatar (including outlying districts), Dundgovi, and Umnugovi to strengthen internal systems and advance policy engagement on green and digital transition from 2026–2028. Selected CSOs can join one or both tracks: (1) organizational capacity building and (2) advocacy on climate/green and digital agendas. The program combines training, peer learning, and mentorship to prepare CSOs for local-to-national policy dialogue, including COP-related and EU-supported platforms. Competitive grants total MNT 1.04 billion across three windows: MNT 4–12 million for internal systems (≥20 CSOs), MNT 40–60 million for local green/digital initiatives (≥10 CSOs), and MNT 12–20 million for advocacy (≥10 CSOs). Eligible CSOs must be registered, active in environment/climate or youth participation, and able to engage target vulnerable groups. Applications close February 25, 2026, 23:59 (UTC+8).
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Deputy Prime Minister Orders Faster Disaster-Prevention Measures in Bayankhongor
Published: 2026-02-12
A government task force led by Deputy Prime Minister and National Emergency Commission (NEC) Chair Kh. Ganhuyag reviewed winter conditions and disaster-risk mitigation in Bayankhongor, instructing local authorities to accelerate preparedness. The visit is part of a broader assessment across central provinces, including progress on the “New Cooperative—Prosperous Herder” program. Forecasts indicate most regions are currently 1–5°C colder than the long-term average, with temperatures expected to turn mostly warmer than average later in February. Bayankhongor has activated rapid measures in 13 high- and medium-risk soums, including commercial livestock procurement, transhumance planning, and increased fodder reserves.
“Implement disaster-risk reduction and prevention policies concretely at the local level, prioritizing the protection of citizens’ safety, lives, and property, and ensure swift response actions under the Disaster Protection Law and related programs.” - Kh. Ganhuyag, Deputy Prime Minister and NEC Chair (montsame.mn)
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Innovation
E-Mongolia Launches Unified ‘Jobs’ Portal Integrating 20,000+ Vacancies from Public and Private Sectors
Published: 2026-02-12
The E-Mongolia platform has overhauled its “Jobs” section in partnership with Zangia Portal LLC, creating a centralized hub that aggregates more than 20,000 active vacancies listed on Zangia.mn across government and private employers. The update enables users on web and mobile to search with filters, match roles by profession, location, and experience, and apply directly without navigating multiple sites. Officials position the move as a public–private model to improve labor market transparency and recruitment efficiency, addressing common issues like duplicate or inactive listings and slow hiring cycles.
“This is an example of the state creating a unified, reliable service environment while the private sector supports employment with real data and technology. It lays the groundwork to expand toward skills-based matching and regional job information.” - Minister of Digital Development, Innovation and Communications E. Batshugar (isee.mn)
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Government Opens Online Registration for New Virtual Zone to Boost IT Manufacturing
Published: 2026-02-12
The Cabinet has launched online registration for companies to join a newly established “Virtual Zone to Support IT Manufacturing,” following a 17 September 2025 decision aimed at diversifying the economy beyond mining. Eligible registrants must be Mongolia-registered legal entities engaged in IT manufacturing; distributing or reselling foreign ready-made products, services, or licenses does not qualify. Registered firms may receive corporate income tax relief, grants for patenting and international certification, partial reimbursement of social insurance contributions, loan guarantees and interest support, accelerated depreciation, and targeted R&D backing—up to 70% for startups and up to 40% for artificial intelligence project costs. Applications require company registration data, 12 months of social insurance payment records, the latest opening balance or audited financial statements, and detailed product/service information. The National IT Park serves as the working group executor, with hotlines provided for inquiries.
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Education Ministry Advances ‘Safe Network’ National Program to Combat Bullying and Online Abuse
Published: 2026-02-12
Mongolia’s Education Minister P. Naranbayar and advisor Ts. Altansor met civil society leaders Ch. Ganzhavkhlan (Human Network) and O. Ulamsaikhan (Noorog Academy) to coordinate the ‘Safe Network’ national program targeting school and cyberbullying, including sexual harassment. The initiative responds to rising peer abuse migrating online and the difficulty of identifying perpetrators. International evidence from 42 studies covering 266,000 children links faster growth of bullying and sexual violence to digital platforms, with severe mental health impacts. A Mongolia survey cited indicates 32.1% of adolescents have attempted suicide at least once, underscoring urgency. Planned measures include: a draft law regulating social media participation for children under 16; creation of a national ‘Safe Network’ platform; phased curriculum content on empathy, respect, responsibility, harms of bullying, and self-protection; and an ‘E-police’ mechanism involving parents. Civil society partners pledged to support and collaborate on implementation.
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Health
Published: 2026-02-12
The Cabinet approved creation of a National Disease Control and Prevention Center to centralize surveillance, epidemiology, laboratory networks, and risk assessment under one leadership, replacing fragmented mandates across three existing institutes. Operations are slated to begin in May, using current structures and budgets, with the aim of faster, evidence-based decision-making and coordinated emergency response aligned to CDC/KDCA/ECDC models. Health Minister J. Chinhburen linked the reform to recent measles resurgence—fueled by about 70% vaccination coverage—and stressed prevention-led budgeting and readiness. Digital measures expand price transparency and insurance oversight: citizens can compare real-time pharmacy prices and track health insurance claims via D-health.mn, E-Mongolia, E-Barimt, and em.hdc.gov.mn, a step expected to deter fraudulent billing and curb price inflation.
“This center is not about treating after the fact; it is a 24/7 early warning system that reduces risk and saves costs through evidence-based decisions.” - Health Minister J. Chinhburen (montsame.mn)
“One tugrik spent on prevention yields a tenfold return.” - Health Minister J. Chinhburen (isee.mn)
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Primary Care Pay Raises Begin in February as Health Ministry Moves to Clear Hospital Debts by June
Published: 2026-02-12
Mongolia’s Health Ministry says salary increases for family and soum health center staff will be paid from February after the National Health Insurance Council’s Resolution No. 3 took effect, aligning them with the 30% base pay rise already applied to other health workers in late January. Health Minister J. Chinburen detailed a phased plan to settle public hospitals’ arrears by June, front-loading 60% of payments in the first two months and addressing the rest through June to stabilize procurement and services. The Health Insurance General Office reported the Health Insurance Fund closed 2025 with MNT 220.6 billion in payables after imposing purchasing limits, warning of revenue risks tied to the wider economy. Minister Chinburen framed new e-monitoring via E-Mongolia as a curb on false claims and emphasized that staffing cuts targeted duplicate management, not frontline clinicians.
“If we had not conducted oversight, the sector would be sitting on over MNT 800 billion in debt today. We have now created a system where citizens can monitor benefits and fake claims won’t get through.” - Health Minister J. Chinburen (eagle.mn)
“We ended 2025 with MNT 220.6 billion in payables; without limits it would have reached about MNT 520 billion. Revenue realization may face risks this year given economic conditions, so disciplined spending is crucial.” - Ts. Batbaatar, Director, Health Insurance General Office (itoim.mn)
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Health Insurance Fund Disburses ₮156.2 Billion to Providers for February Advances and 2025 Arrears
Published: 2026-02-12
The Social Health Insurance General Office transferred ₮156.2 billion to contracted health providers, covering February 2026 advance payments and settling outstanding 2025 liabilities. The allocation includes ₮29.4 billion to soum and family health centers (80% of February per-capita financing), ₮78.6 billion as advance funding to tertiary and referral hospitals, ₮32.5 billion to those institutions for prior-year arrears, and ₮15.7 billion to pharmacies for overdue 2025 reimbursements. Timely disbursement is critical for cash flow at primary and referral facilities, supporting continuity of services and procurement of medicines. The settlement of arrears should ease pressure on hospital operations and pharmacy supply chains, while the advance funding mechanism signals continued use of prospective payments to stabilize provider finances early in the year. No individual officials were quoted in the reports.
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Health Ministry Deploys ₮5.5 Billion From Reserve, Reports Measles Cases Eased; National CDC Approved
Published: 2026-02-12
The Health Ministry warned of heightened influenza-like illness risk from mid-March, citing low immunization coverage as a key driver of infectious disease spread. Health Minister J. Chinburen said the government allocated ₮5.5 billion from the state reserve to respond to rising measles cases, which helped reduce incidence. However, vaccination gaps persist, with unvaccinated children accounting for 70% of cases. Authorities urged parents to complete children’s routine immunizations and advised mask use and hand hygiene. The Cabinet on February 11 approved establishing a National Center for Disease Control and Prevention, intended to shift Mongolia’s health system toward prevention by forecasting outbreaks and strengthening resilience. The ministry framed this as a structural upgrade enabling earlier risk planning rather than reactive measures.
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Japan–Mongolia Project Launched to Strengthen National Control of Hepatitis D
Published: 2026-02-12
The Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (MNUMS) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed a memorandum to implement a research and development project aimed at controlling hepatitis delta virus (HDV) in Mongolia. The initiative responds to persistently high cirrhosis and liver cancer mortality, and gaps in nationwide HDV surveillance, diagnostics standards, and comprehensive research. The project will build national capacity for HDV control, develop diagnostic assays, map epidemiological and virological risk factors, and investigate genetic and pathological mechanisms driving severe liver complications. It also includes human resource development to support sustainable public health responses. Core implementers include Tokushima University (Japan) and, from Mongolia, MNUMS, its Bio-Medical Institute and School, and the Mongolia–Japan Hospital, with collaboration from the National Center for Communicable Diseases and the National Center for the Study of Liver Diseases. The program aims to reduce complications and mortality, improving quality of life.
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Health Ministry to Brief on Measles Situation; Judiciary, Anti-Corruption, and Unions Announce Press Events
Published: 2026-02-12
Mongolia’s Ministry of Health will hold a 10:00 briefing on the current measles situation and issue guidance for health risks during the Lunar New Year period. At 11:00, the Judicial General Council will present consolidated statistics on court proceedings for 2025, signaling an early look at caseloads and performance metrics. Also at 11:00 in the State Palace, the Democratic Party’s “4:11” session will address the latest Corruption Perceptions Index results, potential impacts, and a draft law aimed at curbing vote-buying as part of broader anti-corruption initiatives. From 13:00–14:00, the Confederation of Mongolian Trade Unions, together with education and health sector unions, will formally submit complaints and claims to relevant authorities, alleging that certain government resolutions and ministerial orders in education and health contravene legislation. No direct quotes were provided in the source.
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Published: 2026-02-12
The Health Ministry introduced a public price-transparency tool on dhealth.gov.mn that lets users search a medicine by name to see live prices, availability, and directions to nearby pharmacies within a 5 km radius. Access is available directly via web or through E-Mongolia. The platform aims to curb price dispersion and reduce time spent visiting multiple outlets. Officials say initial data already shows narrowing price gaps for common drugs such as aspirin, where past differences reportedly ranged from MNT 5,000 to 10,000.
“If you are looking for a medicine, log into dhealth.gov.mn and search by name to immediately see which pharmacies are selling it and at what price, along with how to get there on the map.” - J. Chinburen, Minister of Health (ikon.mn)
The initiative signals a broader move toward digital oversight of essential goods, potentially strengthening consumer protection and competitive pricing in the pharmaceutical retail market.
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