Politics
Parliamentary Panel Backs S. Narantsogt for Central Bank Governor After Public Hearing
Published: 2025-12-16
Parliament’s Economic Standing Committee endorsed S. Narantsogt to lead the Bank of Mongolia for a six-year term following a well-attended confirmation hearing. Narantsogt, currently CEO of Erdenes Mongol and a former Finance Ministry secretary, outlined a rule-based monetary policy, tighter sterilization of FX purchases, clearer FX intervention rules, and closer—but distinct—coordination with fiscal policy. He warned rates cannot be cut in the next six months without risking macro instability and prioritized shifting credit from consumption to production.
“In the short term, there is no possibility to lower the policy rate; doing so would disrupt macro balance. We must deflate the bubble gently and then align rate cuts with inflation.” - S. Narantsogt, nominee for Governor (gogo.mn)
Lawmakers urged action on mortgage securitization, banking governance, FX reserve diversification, and exploration of a central bank digital currency. A plenary vote is expected after the committee’s report moves to the full chamber.
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Election Commission Chair Steps Down; Secretary Appointed Acting Head as Parliament Prepares Successor Hearing
Published: 2025-12-16
Parliament’s Standing Committee on State Structure accepted the resignation of P. Delgertnaran as chair of the General Election Commission (GEC), initiating procedures to appoint a successor through a confirmation hearing. Delgertnaran, appointed in August 2020, submitted his request on December 8 under Article 4.7 of the Law on the Central Election Body. Until a new chair is named, GEC member and Secretary D. Davaa-Ochir will serve as acting chair, per the committee’s resolution, ensuring continuity ahead of upcoming electoral cycles. The committee will forward its recommendation to the full parliament for final action. Lawmakers underscored that a nominee has not yet been identified and that the legal process requires a public appointment hearing to maintain institutional transparency and independence.
“Since the GEC chair has submitted a resignation, the law requires us to conduct an appointment hearing; no nominee has been determined yet.” - Committee chair presiding over the session (ikon.mn)
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Parliamentary Committee Backs Reappointment of Deputy Prosecutor General M. Chinbat
Published: 2025-12-16
Parliament’s Legal Standing Committee endorsed President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh’s proposal to reappoint Maksimin Chinbat as Deputy Prosecutor General, with 12 of 15 members (80%) voting in favor. The President’s Office, represented by Deputy Chief E. Zolboo, submitted the nomination under constitutional and statutory provisions. Chinbat’s previous term concluded this year; he has served as deputy since April 2019 and has 30 years in the prosecution service, progressing from Sükhbaatar aimag to district leadership roles in Ulaanbaatar and the Prosecutor General’s Office. The committee’s positive conclusion will proceed to the full plenary for final consideration. The vote signals continuity within the prosecution’s leadership and suggests limited near‑term shifts in prosecutorial policy or priorities as the institution maintains experienced stewardship.
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Parliamentary Committee Advances Criminal Procedure Amendments and Backs Deputy Prosecutor General Nominee
Published: 2025-12-16
Parliament’s Legal Affairs Standing Committee held first reading on amendments to the Criminal Procedure Law to align with a 2025 Constitutional Court ruling that found parts of Article 14.10 unconstitutional. The draft clarifies grounds for pre-trial detention of defendants during court proceedings, requires courts to state reasons when maintaining, changing, or lifting preventive measures, and deems the previously struck provision void. If approved, changes take effect 1 January 2026. The committee also annulled earlier resolutions to form working groups on family law bills and endorsed President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh’s proposal to appoint Maksimiin Chinbat as Deputy Prosecutor General, forwarding its recommendation to plenary after a vote of 12–3. Chinbat, a career prosecutor with 30 years’ service, previously served as Deputy Prosecutor General since 2019.
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Erdenes Oyu Tolgoi CEO Released After 48-Hour Detention; Travel Ban Imposed in Misuse-of-Office Probe
Published: 2025-12-16
Erdenes Oyu Tolgoi CEO E. Gankhuu was released after a 48-hour urgent detention during parliamentary oversight hearings on the Oyu Tolgoi deposit, with a court subsequently imposing a travel ban as the investigation continues, local media reported. Prosecutors requested the measure as the detention period expired, and a district summary court barred Gankhuu from leaving Mongolia. Investigators are probing allegations that he abused his position in a property purchase: Erdenes Oyu Tolgoi signed an 8.247 billion MNT deal with BMC M LLC on Aug. 15, 2024, then advanced 70% (about 5.773 billion MNT) on Sept. 25 without taking possession of the building. The company has since leased 374.65 sq m in the Blue Sky Tower, where an audit found rent exceeded a state benchmark, adding roughly 170.8 million MNT in extra costs. The probe remains ongoing.
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Published: 2025-12-16
A trial is underway for former Sukhbaatar District Chief Prosecutor E. Amarbat alongside former deputy director of the National Institute of Forensic Science Ts. Gantulga, attorney P. Odontungalag, and B. Mandakhbayar of Bayan Khutgor LLC on multiple corruption-related charges. Prosecutors have indicted the group under several provisions of Mongolia’s Criminal Code, including articles 22.5-1 (abuse related to public office), 17.3-2.2, 21.2-1, 22.1-2, 22.4-2, 10.4-1, and 21.14-2. The case centers on alleged bribery and misuse of official functions involving judicial and prosecutorial actors, underscoring heightened scrutiny on legal-sector integrity. Outcomes could influence ongoing anti-corruption enforcement and set precedents for prosecutorial accountability. Further details on evidence, defense arguments, and potential sentencing ranges have not been disclosed in the report.
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Cabinet May Appoint Deputy Ministers at Wednesday Meeting
Published: 2025-12-16
Mongolia’s Cabinet, led by Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar, is expected to consider appointing deputy ministers across its 18 ministries at its regular meeting on December 17, according to unnamed sources cited by isee.mn. Portfolios reportedly include key agencies such as the Ministry of Economy and Development, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Justice and Home Affairs. Specific nominees have not been disclosed. Some sources suggest the move could coincide with releasing 128 “monitoring and productivity managers” appointed under former prime minister L. Oyun-Erdene, with positions potentially restructured into deputy minister roles. If confirmed, the appointments would fill second-in-command posts that shape ministerial operations and policy execution, signaling an administrative reset early in Zandanshatar’s tenure. No official government statements had been issued at the time of reporting.
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Cabinet Advances Foundational Economic Freedom Bill to Parliament, Targets Rollback of Foreign Investment Restrictions
Published: 2025-12-16
The Cabinet approved submission to Parliament of a foundational Economic Freedom bill alongside amendments to the Investment Law and nine related laws. Mongolia currently operates under 200+ business and economic regulations but lacks a statute guaranteeing the right to conduct business, protect property, and limit government intervention. The package aims to codify principles ensuring entrepreneurs’ economic freedoms, define state obligations to uphold them, and prohibit certain actions by public bodies and officials. It would also institutionalize a government–private sector consultation mechanism through a legally mandated Economic Policy Council. Proposed amendments to the Investment Law and accompanying legislation would remove prohibitions and limits affecting foreign investment in several sectors, signaling an effort to improve the investment climate and align with international practices that favor minimal state interference in business activities.
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Parliament to Appoint Central Bank Governor and Ambassadors, Weighs Privatization and Tax Agenda
Published: 2025-12-16
Parliament’s regular session on Thursday will include appointments of the Bank of Mongolia governor and several ambassadors, according to Deputy Speaker J. Bat-Erdene. He pushed back on criticism that the legislature is focused only on personnel changes, noting parallel policy items on taxes, state-owned enterprise (SOE) privatization, and SOE management reforms aimed at supporting a strained economy.
“It is one-sided to say we are only discussing appointments. Alongside nominations, we should also address taxes, privatization of state-owned companies, improving SOE management, and measures to lift the economy in this difficult period.” - Deputy Speaker J. Bat-Erdene (news.mn)
He added that the autumn session is scheduled to meet through December 26, after which working groups will convene, with two additional weeks planned after New Year to fulfill the statutory 75 sitting days. The ruling MPP caucus met openly on December 15 to review government matters.
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Economy
December Fuel Imports Secure Supply as 371 Rail Tankers Queue for Unloading
Published: 2025-12-16
Mongolia has confirmed December orders for 230,600 tons of fuel, maintaining reliance on Russian supply (95%) with the remainder from China. Orders with Russia total 219,400 tons—83,600 tons of AI-92 gasoline, 134,240 tons of diesel, and 1,560 tons of AI-95—plus 11,200 tons from China. Between December 1–15, border checkpoints received 23,484 tons of AI-92, 81,600–98,656 tons of diesel, and 3,795–4,090 tons of TS-1 jet fuel, indicating steady inflows despite reporting variances across agencies. As of December 16, “Ulaanbaatar Railway” held 371 fuel wagons awaiting distribution, including 17,640 tons of diesel, 3,060 tons of AI-92, and 300 tons of AI-95, routed to Tolgoit, Arshaant, Darkhan, Erdenet, and Ulaanbaatar stations. The data suggests near-term supply stability for transport and winter heating demand.
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Housing Price Index Rises 12.7% Year-on-Year in November; Sukhbaatar Leads per‑sqm Costs
Published: 2025-12-16
Ulaanbaatar’s housing market continued to heat up in November 2025, with the nationwide housing price index at 1.37—up 12.7% from a year earlier and 1.0% from October, according to national statistics. Annual gains were stronger for existing units (13.9%) than new builds (11%), signaling persistent demand in established districts and limited resales supply. Average prices for both new and existing apartments reached roughly MNT 4.97 million per square meter. Sukhbaatar District posted the highest per‑sqm prices—about MNT 5.9–5.95 million—reflecting its premium location and amenities. By district, price growth diverged: for new units, Songinokhairkhan saw the sharpest annual increase (+6.9%), while Chingeltei was nearly flat (+0.2%); for existing stock, Khan-Uul led (+18.8%) and Bayangol rose the least (+10.2%). The data point to resilient urban housing demand as supply constraints and location premiums persist.
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Khan Bank Secures US$50M from FinDev Canada within FMO-Led US$250M Syndication
Published: 2025-12-16
Khan Bank has obtained a US$50 million long-term facility from Canada’s development finance institution FinDev Canada, part of a US$250 million dual-currency syndicated financing arranged by the Netherlands Development Finance Company (FMO). The deal marks FinDev Canada’s first investment in Mongolia and earmarks funds toward climate action (30%), women-led enterprises (30%), and broader MSME lending, including youth and agribusiness. The financing aligns with the 2X Challenge criteria, signaling measurable gender impact. FinDev frames the partnership as a platform to expand financial inclusion and climate resilience, while FMO highlights its 2030 strategy to scale sustainable finance through close collaboration with local partners.
“We are making our first investment in Mongolia to accelerate climate action, improve financial inclusion, and promote gender equality, including women’s entrepreneurship.” - Lori Kerr, CEO, FinDev Canada (ikon.mn)
“The proceeds will target green finance, women’s entrepreneurship, and MSME support, laying the groundwork for a long-term partnership.” - B. Erdenedelger, First Deputy CEO, Khan Bank (news.mn)
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Government Presses Rio Tinto on Oyu Tolgoi Loan Costs as Talks Begin with Entrée Resources
Published: 2025-12-16
A parliamentary hearing on Oyu Tolgoi’s contracts this week coincided with a government push to improve Mongolia’s returns from the project. On December 9, a cabinet task force led by Finance Minister B. Javkhlan met Rio Tinto to accelerate negotiations on lowering shareholder loan interest for Oyu Tolgoi, with both sides agreeing to continue talks soon. On December 11, Industry and Minerals Minister G. Damdinyam met Stephen Scott, President and CEO of Entrée Resources, urging immediate negotiations given Entrée’s licenses within the Oyu Tolgoi group deposit. The government outlined red lines: conclude a new investment agreement, reject any Rio Tinto–Entrée arrangement that excluded Mongolia, and set state equity with a royalty-based (AMNAT) structure. The synchronized scrutiny and talks signal a bid to reset financial terms and resolve license disputes tied to the giant copper-gold project.
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Mining Group Warns Budget Overreliance on Coal Prices as Policy Uncertainty Weighs on Investment
Published: 2025-12-16
Mongolian National Mining Association executive director G. Erdenetuya cautioned that budget revenue shortfalls cannot be blamed solely on weaker coal prices, citing structural export shifts, logistics constraints, and policy unpredictability. Coal prices have steadied but remain below the two-year average, while Mongolia’s export mix is tilting away from premium coking coal toward semi‑soft coking and thermal coal, increasing sensitivity to price swings. She urged policy consistency to restore investor confidence and highlighted legal changes allowing the state’s 34% stake in strategic deposits to be replaced with royalties. Erdenetuya said export growth targets, including proposals to reach 100 million tonnes to China, must align with infrastructure capacity, market demand, and long-term contracts. She argued that strengthening transparency in licensing, clarifying royalties, and ensuring stable regulation would revive both domestic and foreign investment.
“Budget revenue gaps cannot be explained only by the global coal price decline; we have overrelied on price gains while logistics and policy risks persist.” - G. Erdenetuya, Executive Director, Mongolian National Mining Association (news.mn)
“Investors want certainty and stability, but successive governments have failed to deliver consistent policy.” - G. Erdenetuya, Executive Director, Mongolian National Mining Association (news.mn)
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Budget Balance Shows MNT 1.8 Trillion Deficit as Revenue Softens Despite Higher Social Insurance and VAT
Published: 2025-12-16
Mongolia’s consolidated budget recorded a MNT 1.8 trillion deficit for the first 11 months, according to preliminary data from the National Statistics Office. Total revenue and grants reached MNT 27.6 trillion, down 0.6% year-on-year, while “balanced” revenue and grants fell 1.8% to MNT 25.6 trillion. Expenditure and net lending totaled MNT 27.4 trillion. Tax revenue dropped 3.4% to MNT 23.5 trillion, driven by a sharp fall in corporate income tax (down MNT 428.2 billion, 5.4%) and mineral royalties (down MNT 1.4 trillion, 43.3%). Offsetting gains came from social insurance contributions (up MNT 769.9 billion, 18.6%), VAT (up MNT 231.5 billion, 4.5%), property taxes (up MNT 122.5 billion, 32.6%), and external operations income (up MNT 43.0 billion, 2.6%). The mix signals pressure from weaker mining-related inflows even as domestic tax bases and social contributions strengthen.
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Government Moves to List 18 State Firms and Cut SOE Count by 19 Following Governance Push
Published: 2025-12-16
The cabinet approved plans to sell shares in 18 state-owned companies and state enterprises to convert them into publicly listed firms, while reducing the total number of SOEs by 19 (down 18.8%) to 82. The move is positioned as a governance reform to streamline overlapping mandates, improve efficiency, and channel investment via the capital market after consolidating nine western power entities into four in July. Comparative studies cited by officials say state participation in the economy remains high and crowds out private sector competitiveness, while Mongolia’s mainly LLC-based corporate structure limits equity financing. A forthcoming Business Freedom Law and a five-year economic and infrastructure reform agenda aim to support private enterprise and tax reform. Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar has repeatedly stressed the shift from state competition to policy support for business, framing listings as the most effective governance solution for SOEs.
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ILO Highlights Mongolia’s Copper Upside with Rising Value-Addition and Strong Labor Standards
Published: 2025-12-16
A new International Labour Organization (ILO) Asia-Pacific report identifies Mongolia as a high-employment, comparatively well-paid, and socially protected player in renewable energy and critical mineral supply chains. Mongolia holds the world’s 12th-largest copper reserves and could rank fourth in output by 2030. Mining contributes about 25% of GDP, roughly 90% of exports, and employs over 77,000 people, with copper dominated by Erdenet Mining and Oyu Tolgoi, which together produce about 90% of national output. Processing capacity is expanding through cathode production at Achit Ikht and Erdenmin, signaling gradual movement up the value chain. Average mining wages are 74% above the national mean, informal work is just 2.5%, most workers have permanent contracts, and unionization ranges 65–94%. Persistent gaps include unclear rules on overtime and base pay calculations and declining female participation (14% in 2024), especially in technical and leadership roles. The ILO notes policy progress, including Supreme Court-backed corrections to overtime pay at Oyu Tolgoi in 2024, but urges further reforms on gender equity, transparency, and labor relations to sustain quality job creation as domestic processing grows.
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Mortgage Portfolio Tops MNT 6.6 Trillion as Lower Rates Expand Access, Spur Regional Housing Push
Published: 2025-12-16
Mongolia’s central bank reports the outstanding mortgage portfolio has surpassed MNT 6.6 trillion, more than doubling since 2019, after mortgage rates were cut from 8% to 6% in October 2020. Roughly MNT 5.6 trillion in new mortgages reached about 56,000 households over the past six years, signaling renewed uptake following the rate reduction. To curb Ulaanbaatar’s overcrowding and support regional development, the “General Agreement on Mortgage Financing” now requires at least 25% of funding to be allocated outside the capital. Complementary incentives from the loan guarantee fund reduce down payments to 12% for homes purchased in provincial centers and soums, with a 3% interest subsidy for the first three years. These measures aim to redirect demand to rural markets, broaden homeownership, and stabilize the construction sector beyond Ulaanbaatar.
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Diplomacy
Russian Arbitration Orders Enforcement Against 66% of Oyu Tolgoi Shares in $1.28 Billion Dispute
Published: 2025-12-16
A Russian arbitration court in Kaliningrad has ordered enforcement against 66% of Oyu Tolgoi LLC’s shares to secure a US$1.28 billion claim by PJSC “OK RUSAL” against the Rio Tinto Group, according to local media. Oyu Tolgoi LLC, a Mongolian entity operated by Rio Tinto, was drawn into the dispute as a third party in a profit-sharing case between Rio Tinto and RUSAL. The decision, issued December 11, allows appeal to the Thirteenth Arbitration Court of Appeal within one month. While the ruling targets Rio Tinto, the enforcement measure against Oyu Tolgoi’s share capital raises potential implications for Mongolia’s flagship copper-gold mine and regulatory stakeholders. Analysts cited by the report argue Rio Tinto and Oyu Tolgoi should provide an official explanation of the arbitration process and clarify why Oyu Tolgoi’s shares are subject to enforcement under Russian law.
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Infrastructure
Published: 2025-12-16
Ulaanbaatar’s Road Development Department has cleared key design milestones for a multi-level interchange program at three high-traffic junctions—Monos, Officers’ Palace roundabout, and MITS—alongside a pedestrian overpass on Naadamchiin (Yarmag) Road and a bridge near Nart residential area. Detailed design work is reported at 40%, with state technical review underway for the pedestrian and bridge structures. The city projects a 7.1% increase in average traffic speed once the network of interchanges and crossings is completed. Authorities have updated task orders, secured approvals from the chief architect for revised concepts, and requested technical conditions for utility relocations—often a critical bottleneck in Ulaanbaatar projects. The package targets choke points linking central corridors and rapidly growing southern districts, aiming to reduce delays and improve pedestrian safety on arterial routes.
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Ulaanbaatar Water Compact Nears Completion, Set to Boost City Supply by 80% and Reuse Wastewater for Power Plants
Published: 2025-12-16
Mongolia’s Millennium Challenge Account reports the Ulaanbaatar Water Supply Program is 94% complete, targeting full delivery by March 31, 2026 under a $462 million Water Compact co-financed by the U.S. Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and the Government of Mongolia. The program adds a major western wellfield and an advanced treatment plant—now 99.5% complete—to inject up to 50 million m³ of potable water annually into the capital’s network. A first-of-its-kind wastewater recycling facility—95% complete—will supply up to 50,000 m³/day to Thermal Power Plant No. 3 and Thermal Power Plant No. 4, reducing groundwater extraction by about 18 million m³ per year. Policy and institutional reforms include automating 180 kiosks for 24/7 service and deploying the ewater.mn data system. Officials project 10.9% economic returns over 30 years and long-term resilience against water scarcity.
“If a compact cannot be completed within five years, funds are withdrawn—this is a grant with strict performance rules.” - E. Enkhgerel, CEO, Millennium Challenge Account-Mongolia (itoim.mn)
“The Water Compact will deliver long-term, stable water infrastructure for Ulaanbaatar—an essential base for growth.” - T. Enkhtungalag, Procurement Director, Millennium Challenge Account-Mongolia (itoim.mn)
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Ulaanbaatar’s Planned First Ring Road Aims to Divert Transit Traffic from City Center
Published: 2025-12-16
Ulaanbaatar plans a “First Ring Road” to integrate regional highways and divert through-traffic away from downtown, addressing chronic congestion and pollution. Vehicle registrations rose about 80% over the past decade while road capacity expanded only 19%, pushing peak-hour speeds down to 7–13 km/h. The proposed corridor would connect routes to Darkhan-Uul, Nalaikh–Choir, and the highway to the new Khushig Valley international airport, creating an orbital alternative for intercity and airport-bound traffic. Authorities expect this to reduce transit flows in central streets, ease bottlenecks, and mitigate emissions; research attributes roughly 10% of Ulaanbaatar’s air pollution to vehicles, exacerbated by slow traffic and idling. Implementation details such as phasing, financing, and timeline were not specified in the announcement from the Capital City Governor’s Office communications department.
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Society
Family of Late Filipina Domestic Worker Petitions Prosecutor to Reopen 2011 Death Case at Businessman’s Home
Published: 2025-12-16
The husband and two daughters of Terril (Terrill) Atienza, a Filipina who died in 2011 while working as a domestic helper at the home of “Erel Group” founder B. Erdenebat, have formally asked the Office of the Prosecutor General to reopen the case. Authorities previously closed it in January 2012, ruling no criminal elements. The family, now in Ulaanbaatar, seeks access to the case file and a fresh review of police records, witness statements, forensic reports, and the nature of Atienza’s recruitment and employment under D. Sergelen, raising potential labor exploitation and cross-border trafficking concerns. Defense lawyer B. Purevsuren noted the statute of limitations for serious homicide can extend up to 25 years, allowing reconsideration. The Prosecutor General’s Office accepted their petition and arranged meetings with legal counsel for next steps.
“We did not come for money. We came to learn the truth.” - Nilo Atienza, husband (gogo.mn)
“Please examine how my mother entered Mongolia and her employment under D. Sergelen.” - Nairie(l) Atienza, daughter (ikon.mn)
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Inspections Reveal Half of Ulaanbaatar’s Communal Lodgings Still Use Pit Latrines
Published: 2025-12-16
Ulaanbaatar authorities have launched inspections of the city’s 760 registered communal lodging houses, focusing on sanitation and fire/electrical safety due to high rates of incidents reported by police, particularly domestic violence. Only 2% of these properties are connected to central utilities; 52% rely on pit latrines, and the rest have standard sewered facilities. Larger facilities—such as one housing 68 households in Khan-Uul District’s 20th khoroo—report comparatively better conditions, while smaller houses remain problematic. Officials warn these residences significantly contaminate soil and groundwater. Previous inspections found raw coal use; operators have shifted this year to briquettes and semi-coke. 20 of the facilities are business-registered, with the remainder privately owned. 2021 national statistics counted roughly 1,500 such lodgings nationwide, underscoring Ulaanbaatar’s sizeable share.
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Environment
Severe Dzud Risk Flagged for 23% of Territory Following National Assessment
Published: 2025-12-16
Mongolia’s Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology issued its December dzud risk assessment, projecting “very high” wintering difficulty in 23% of the country, “high” in 58%, “medium” in 18%, and “low” in 1%. The model integrates summer drought and pasture conditions, temperature and precipitation anomalies, snow depth, and winter forecasts, alongside vulnerability factors such as winter-spring pasture carrying capacity, hay and fodder stocks, livestock fattening, household remoteness, water access, and demographic indicators of herder populations. Elevated risk areas include most of Bayan-Ölgii, Uvs, Khövsgöl, Selenge, Darkhan-Uul, and Töv, with parts of Khovd, Zavkhan, Bayankhongor, Arkhangai, and Övörkhangai. Authorities advise close monitoring of short-, medium-, and long-range weather forecasts and preparing contingency measures for deteriorating conditions, given potential impacts on herders and supply chains.
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Power Plants Defend Emissions Compliance as City Officials Seek Filter Overhaul; Semi‑Coke Briquettes Cited for Lower Sulfur and Volatiles
Published: 2025-12-16
Ulaanbaatar’s deputy mayor A. Amartuvshin has blamed thermal power plants for a significant share of winter smog, calling for repairs to flue-gas filters and a shift from raw coal to semi‑coke. Engineers at Thermal Power Plant No. 3 countered that facilities meet MNS 5919:2008 emission limits and use multi-stage particulate controls with frequent checks, citing recent third‑party tests showing compliance. They also said switching boilers to semi‑coke would require technology changes to fuel handling and combustion systems.
“Thermal power plants do not burn coal directly; it’s pulverized and exhaust passes through two-stage filters, which we check every two hours.” - E. Enkhbat, Industrial Environmental Engineer, TPP-3 (isee.mn)
Separately, a scientific assessment found the new semi‑coke briquettes cut volatile matter and sulfur content by roughly half versus previous briquettes, potentially reducing ger-area emissions by 20–25% this season, while noting different ignition behavior and longer burn time.
“Compared with prior briquettes, volatile matter fell to about 11.5–12.5% and sulfur to 0.4–0.5%.” - Researcher G. Shiirav, Mongolian Academy of Sciences (urug.mn)
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Parliament Panel Backs Draft to Ban Sand and Gravel Permits in Water Protection Zones
Published: 2025-12-16
Parliament’s Economic Standing Committee voted to proceed with amendments to the Law on Commonly Spread Minerals, advancing a ban on exploration and extraction permits for sand and gravel in water reservoirs and their protection zones. The draft, sponsored by MP J. Aldarjavkhlan, would also enable environmental impact reviews triggered by public complaints and allow permit revocations if harm is confirmed. Lawmakers cited unchecked sourcing from the Tuul River basin for Ulaanbaatar’s construction needs and gaps left by 2021 restrictions near settlements and green belts, which did not cover water bodies. Thirteen of 20 committee members supported debating the bill at plenary. If enacted, the measure could force a phased shutdown of existing operations in protected hydrological areas and tighten local authority decision-making tied to environmental assessments. The committee also reviewed the hearing report on the nominee for Governor of the Bank of Mongolia.
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Deputy PM Orders Winter Risk Measures in Selenge as Dzud Threat Persists
Published: 2025-12-16
Deputy Prime Minister and head of the State Emergency Commission Kh. Gankhuyag led a working group to Selenge Province’s Tsagaannuur, convening provincial and local emergency officials to accelerate winter preparedness. Authorities reported Selenge is at medium dzud risk, with white-out conditions already in Orkhon, Tushig, and Yeruu and deterioration likely if snowfall increases. The province holds 350 tons of feed in the provincial reserve; sums have 739 tons of hay, 323 tons of feed, and 5 tons of minerals, with overall local stocking at 107%. Gankhuyag directed tighter control of herder movements, rapid dissemination of weather warnings, potential road restrictions, reinforced medical support for herders, and assured response readiness. The commission allocated an emergency vehicle to Khushaat and a loader to Dulaankhaan in Shaamar, signaling immediate support for logistics and snow clearance.
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Air Quality Degrades in Several Ulaanbaatar Districts as PM2.5 Spikes
Published: 2025-12-16
Ulaanbaatar’s real-time air quality readings at 10:00 indicate unhealthy pockets across the city, with PM2.5 ranging from 29 to 283 (polluted) and PM10 from 48 to 165 (slightly polluted). Bayankhoshuu, Dambadarjaa, Sharkhad, and Khailaast registered polluted air quality indices, signaling elevated health risks, especially for sensitive groups. In contrast, Nisekh, Urgakh Naran, “Mongol Gazriin” area, Misheel Expo, and Baruun 4 zam reported normal conditions, while the Bogd Khaan Palace Museum area was rated clean. Yarmag, 1st Microdistrict, MNB complex, 5 Buudal, 100 Ail, the Wrestling Palace, and Nalaikh showed slightly polluted levels. The data, sourced from agaar.mn, underscores the city’s microclimate variability and neighborhood-level disparities, useful for planning commutes, outdoor work, and exposure-sensitive operations during winter pollution episodes.
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Oyu Tolgoi Launches MNT 1.7 Billion Livestock Project in Khanbogd
Published: 2025-12-16
Oyu Tolgoi LLC has initiated a MNT 1.7 billion livestock development program in Khanbogd, Umnugovi, under a memorandum of understanding signed on October 14 with the Khanbogd Governor’s Office and the “Galbyn Gobiin Torgon Süreg” cooperative representing local herder households. The package targets value-added agribusiness: establishing a feedlot for young beef cattle, organizing camel milk collection and processing to raise product value, and producing fertilizer from sheep wool. The first phase, the youth beef cattle feedlot, will receive the initial financing and capacity-building support, including long-term strategic planning assistance for the implementing organization. The initiative aims to lift herder incomes and lay the groundwork for diversified, sustainable agricultural production in a mining-driven local economy where supply chains and processing capacity remain limited.
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Innovation
Apple Pay Launches in Mongolia with M Bank Integration and Bonum–Sono Mastercard Rollout
Published: 2025-12-16
Apple Pay became available to Mongolian users as M Bank enabled wallet-based payments across iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac, allowing contactless in-store and online transactions without sharing card numbers with merchants. The rollout emphasizes tokenization and device-based authentication (Face ID/Touch ID), aligning with global security standards and facilitating cross-border usage in over 90 countries where Apple Pay is accepted. In a parallel move, Bonum LLC introduced Apple Pay support for its cards and, in partnership with Sono Fintech NBFI, launched an international Mastercard credit card that can be provisioned to Apple Wallet immediately via the Neo app, removing the need for a physical card and potentially accelerating digital issuance in Mongolia’s payments market.
“Our mission is to simplify financial services for Mongolians through technology and bring international payment solutions to market.” - N. Tserendavaa, Founder and Chairman, Bonum LLC (ikon.mn)
“By offering Apple Pay and introducing our international Mastercard credit card, our customers can now use fast, reliable, and easy payments anywhere.” - B. Nomin-Erdene, CEO, Sono Fintech NBFI (ikon.mn)
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Over-the-Counter Securities Move to 24/5 Blockchain Trading with One‑Minute Settlement
Published: 2025-12-16
Mongolia’s over-the-counter (OTC) securities market has formally shifted to round-the-clock weekday trading, operating 24/5 on a blockchain platform following an 18‑month sandbox trial by the Financial Regulatory Commission. The system enables near‑instant settlement—automatically completing trades within one minute—and is administered by the Mongolian Association of Securities Dealers, with technology delivered by AND Global and payment automation integrated with the Central Securities Depository. Authorities reported a 40% rise in secondary market activity during the first three months after migrating the OTC market to blockchain, attributing the increase to immediate settlement and expecting additional liquidity gains under continuous trading. The move positions the local capital market to align with global fintech trends while targeting greater efficiency, security, and accessibility for issuers and investors.
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IT Zone Backs “Bagiin Baga Surguuli” Initiative with Digital and STEM Classrooms
Published: 2025-12-16
IT Zone has joined the Ministry of Education and UNICEF’s “Bagiin Baga Surguuli” initiative to equip newly built small bag-level primary schools in remote areas with international-standard computers, classroom technology, and STEM learning environments. The program seeks to reduce long commutes and reliance on dormitories for rural children—over 36,000 of whom live away from home during the school year—by placing early grades closer to families. A new 75-student school in Tsogt-Öndör bag, Batsümber soum (Tuv province) opened with funding from Nomin Holding, UNICEF, and local authorities, addressing disparities in digital access that risk widening educational gaps. The facility allows young students, who previously traveled at least 7 km daily, to study nearer home in a safer, more supportive setting. IT Zone says it will continue supporting digital transformation in education.
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Health
Ulaanbaatar Emergency Services Report Record Call Volume as Health Minister Pledges Systemwide Upgrades
Published: 2025-12-16
Ulaanbaatar’s Emergency Medical Services logged 404,485 calls in the first 11 months of 2025, up from 326,254 in 2021, reflecting sustained demand growth—particularly a 10–30% rise in pediatric cases. The center, marking its 95th year, operates with 175 physicians and 125 drivers. It set a single-day record on Nov. 24, 2025, handling 2,787 calls during the influenza peak without recorded public complaints. Health Minister J. Chinbüren visited the center and highlighted nationwide plans to strengthen access and capability so ambulances arrive faster and deliver higher-quality care, positioning emergency response as a core health priority.
“If we build and reinforce conditions, capacity and systems nationwide so ambulances respond quickly and deliver skilled care, we can save lives—this is the sector’s most important task and policy.” - Health Minister J. Chinbüren (news.mn)
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Frequent Policy U-Turns Draw Criticism Over Evidence and Coordination in Public Health and Transport Decisions
Published: 2025-12-16
A commentary in eagle.mn argues Mongolia’s government is relying on abrupt, poorly coordinated decisions influenced by social media sentiment, citing shifting guidance on temporary school closures during a seasonal flu spike and sudden changes to work holidays for Lunar New Year. The piece says ministries announced online schooling without transparent data on incidence by school or expected impact, then revised timelines days later. It also highlights the capital’s surprise restrictions on vehicle plate issuance as a congestion measure, later softened, which allegedly spurred a gray market and price spikes with unclear benefits. The article frames such moves as symptomatic of a governance pattern that erodes public trust and imposes costs on citizens and businesses. Private Schools Association head G. Unursaikhan calls the education shift unprofessional and unsupported by research. Academic H. Battsengel characterizes these as “sudden political decisions” that avoid accountability.
“Switching online unprepared makes instruction ineffective… This was unprofessional, unresearched, and irresponsible.” - G. Unursaikhan, Head of the Private Schools Association (eagle.mn)
“Sudden political decisions are the biggest way to evade responsibility.” - Prof. H. Battsengel, ScD, Mongolian National University (eagle.mn)
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Published: 2025-12-16
Authorities in Bayanjargalan soum, Tuv Province, have quarantined eight households in Ulaan-Ukhaa Bag 2 and Jargalant Bag 1 following laboratory confirmation of suspected foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). The State Central Veterinary Sanitation Laboratory returned a positive result dated December 12 (report No. 26-374), received locally on December 15. The soum governor has imposed a restriction order, prohibiting the movement of livestock and animal products into the administrative territory from outbreak and high-risk zones. Officials warned of strict legal consequences for violating quarantine—such as moving, hiding, or penning animals outside approved controls—and urged immediate reporting of any FMD symptoms to the soum veterinary unit. While FMD rarely kills mature animals, it causes significant productivity losses and can disrupt international trade. The disease does not infect humans and poses no public health risk.
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Flu Pressure Rises Slightly as Pediatric Hospitalizations Reach 2,740 in 24 Hours
Published: 2025-12-16
Mongolia’s flu and flu-like illness surveillance shows a modest uptick in severe respiratory cases over the past 24 hours, according to the Ministry of Health. Nationwide, 2,740 children are currently hospitalized; 71.6% (1,962) are due to severe acute respiratory infection (SARI), eight more than the previous day. Intensive care units are treating 103 children, with 55.3% (57) for SARI, unchanged from a day earlier. Emergency departments handled 1,643 pediatric visits, of which 66.4% (1,091) were flu-related—362 more than the prior day—indicating rising strain on front-line services. Authorities also reported 28 pregnant women hospitalized with SARI. The ministry notes slight increases in hospital admissions, emergency department load, and intensive care treatment for respiratory complications, underscoring sustained seasonal pressure on pediatric care and the importance of surge management as transmission persists.
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Critically Burned 11-Year-Old to Leave ICU After Skin Grafts in Khentii House Fire Case
Published: 2025-12-16
An 11-year-old girl with 90% burns from a December 2 house fire in Khentii Province is set to be transferred from intensive care to a general ward on December 16 after undergoing three skin graft surgeries, according to official reports. Her 17-year-old brother died rescuing her during the blaze in Kherlen soum. Doctors say the child’s condition has stabilized but caution that sudden deterioration remains possible, underscoring the fragile recovery trajectory typical for severe burn patients. Treatment costs, including surgeries and hospitalization, will be fully covered by Mongolia’s Health Insurance Fund, ensuring no out-of-pocket expenses for the family. The case highlights emergency response and pediatric critical care capacity at the National Trauma and Orthopedics Research Center (GSSUT), while reaffirming social insurance coverage for catastrophic medical events.
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