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Mongolia Daily: Teachers stage pay protest, ACWA unveils $10B clean energy push, and China shuts border crossings Oct 1–7

MongoliaDaily

Politics

Parliament Partly Upholds Presidential Veto on “Gold-3,” Preserving Protections for Noyon Uul and Gutain Davaa

Published: 2025-09-24

Parliament accepted President U. Khurelsukh’s partial veto on the “Gold-3” campaign resolution, blocking changes that would have opened strictly protected areas—such as Noyon Uul and Gutain Davaa—to gold exploration and mining. Lawmakers endorsed the veto on clause 1.5 while rejecting the veto on clause 3 related to tightening border and customs controls on illegal gold exports, according to multiple outlets. The decision underscores a policy tilt toward expanding protected lands over monetizing gold deposits to bolster foreign reserves and the Sovereign Wealth Fund. Voting margins reported ranged from 64% to 74.5% in favor of accepting the relevant veto. The move will require amending the earlier parliamentary resolution, keeping key conservation zones off-limits to mining.

“We must expand protected areas and safeguard the environment… not reduce special protection zones to monetize primary gold deposits.” - President U. Khurelsukh (montsame.mn)

Coverage:

Zandanshatar Marks 100 Days with Fiscal Cuts, SOE Overhaul, and Five-Year Reform Plan

Published: 2025-09-24

“Numbers don’t lie: in seven days we revised the budget, stopped the economic downturn, and created growth.” - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (itoim.mn)

Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar outlined his government’s first 100 days, emphasizing emergency fiscal tightening, state-sector downsizing, and a push to redirect budget priorities toward health and education. The cabinet claims MNT 2.2 trillion in cuts by scrapping underperforming projects, trimming leadership posts, and reducing one-off expenditures; August posted a MNT 52 billion surplus after a July deficit. Authorities imposed special administration at Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi, reporting a threefold profit increase, 1.6x rise in coal exports, revived exchange trading, and FX reserves at a record USD 5.7 billion. Fitch’s outlook reportedly improved with lower debt risk. A public consultation on the 2026 budget informed a shift to “citizen-centered” spending, with health investment up 5.5x and education doubled. The government unveiled a 2026–2030 agenda, “New Confidence, Bold Reform,” spanning 10 reform tracks including taxation, digital, green growth, and energy.

“We set a new budget norm and are discussing it with the public.” - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (news.mn)

Coverage:

2026 Budget Debated as Government Pitches Health, Education, Energy Push and Tax Relief Plan

Published: 2025-09-24

Mongolia’s 2026 draft budget projects MNT 31.6 trillion in revenue and MNT 32.9 trillion in spending, implying a MNT 1.3 trillion deficit. Economist D. Oyunbadam argues the new “primary balance” concept masks true shortfalls by excluding foreign debt-financed expenditures, urging fuller consolidation and clearer investment prioritization. She also flagged ambitious coal export and price assumptions as a risk, alongside reliance on China’s demand and volatile commodity prices. The government, meanwhile, frames the budget as citizen-shaped and reformist, pledging a surge in social and energy investment and income tax relief for lower earners.

“This is a budget developed with citizen participation… now to be debated and implemented under public oversight. We’re also launching tax reform and fully exempting monthly incomes up to MNT 800,000 from tax.” - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (ikon.mn)

Oyundbadam calls for aligning spending with development goals, enhancing audit follow-through, and publishing investment data in accessible formats, noting rising public debt and concentrated mining revenues as structural vulnerabilities.

Coverage:

Five-Year “New Confidence–Reform” Agenda Advances with Digital-First Push, AI Strategy, and Project Ranking Overhaul

Published: 2025-09-24

The cabinet outlined a 2026–2030 development agenda branded “New Confidence–Reform,” aligning with Vision-2050 and setting 10 national objectives across human development, governance, green growth, and competitiveness. Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar said the government will submit the plan to Parliament on October 31 and emphasized 10 reforms spanning governance, economy, tax, energy, and urban-rural development.

“This is not a wish list; it is a practical reform package to double the pace of development in five years.” - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (ikon.mn)

Deputy PM and Economy Minister N. Uchral detailed a shift to evidence-based budgeting: investment projects will be scored across four criteria and timed into the state budget; 14 mega-projects and 140 priority projects are being re-ranked for 2026 planning.

“From next year the budget becomes smarter—projects will be evaluated by indicators and prioritized, with non-listed projects not advancing.” - Deputy PM/Minister N. Uchral (eagle.mn)

Decisions included a government-wide Digital First directive, endorsement of a national Big Data & AI strategy (66 measures through 2030), and reconstitution of the Economic Development Council. The cabinet also approved steps toward a bilateral air services agreement enabling potential direct flights with Australia, and moved to refine protected-area boundaries while tightening oversight of small-scale mining licenses.

Coverage:

Domestic Ammunition Production Launches After Turkish Partnership

Published: 2025-09-24

Mongolia has begun domestic production of small-arms ammunition following installation and calibration of equipment supplied under a defense cooperation agreement with Turkey’s MKE Corporation, according to the Ministry of Defense. The new facility will supply rounds for Armed Forces training and operations, as well as for other state security agencies, reducing reliance on imports and strengthening supply-chain resilience. The move supports national security objectives and could lower procurement costs and lead times for uniformed services. While production details, capacity, and caliber types were not disclosed, the initiative aligns with broader efforts to localize critical defense inputs and ensure continuity of training and readiness. The ministry framed the project as a step toward greater self-sufficiency in defense logistics and a hedge against external market or geopolitical disruptions affecting ammunition availability.

Coverage:

Economy

ACWA Power Signals Entry with $10B Clean Energy Plan, Backed by Market Reforms

Published: 2025-09-24

Deputy Prime Minister T. Dorjkhand said Saudi-based ACWA Power has formally indicated plans to invest at least $10 billion to develop 10 GW of clean energy in Mongolia, following 4–6 months of due diligence on demand, resources, and export potential. The program targets large-scale generation, power for data centers, and exports, with construction expected to start next year and an estimated 50,000 direct and indirect jobs. Officials project initial annual export revenues of around $2 billion, with scope to scale to 50–100 GW as multiple firms weigh a combined 50 GW. Dorjkhand linked the breakthrough to tariff and regulatory reforms enabling private capital and policy continuity under the coalition government.

“For the first time in 40 years, foreign investment is set to enter the energy sector; ACWA Power will invest at least $10 billion across generation, data center power, and exports, with construction beginning next year.” - Deputy Prime Minister T. Dorjkhand (ikon.mn)

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Parliament Weighs Next Steps on Halzan Buregtei Rare Earths Project After Oversight Hearing

Published: 2025-09-24

Parliamentary committees will review conclusions from a special oversight hearing on the Halzan Buregtei rare earths project, where lawmakers, experts, and locals debated environmental risks, regulatory gaps, and economic prospects. Participants criticized inconsistent data and unapproved impact assessments while operations continued. MPs urged clear public information on ore processing, radiation from tailings, and potential health and ecological effects, alongside a definitive decision on licenses to avoid social division. Industry officials said rare earths are accompanied by uranium and thorium but not as primary minerals; regulatory coverage remains fragmented between nuclear and mining laws. The project reported MNT 2.6 billion in losses in 2024 and about MNT 1 billion in 2025 due to delays and disputes. Water availability emerged as a key constraint.

“We will approach this with a ‘measure seven times, cut once’ principle based on science and facts.” - MP B. Bayarbaatar, hearing chair (urug.mn)

“If we don’t utilize rare earths, we will fall behind global development—provided we manage health and environmental risks.” - MP B. Bat-Erdene (urug.mn)

“Even without mining, natural background radiation exists there; such low levels cannot cause genetic defects in livestock.” - G. Manlaijav, Secretary of the Nuclear Energy Commission (urug.mn)

“In 2024 we incurred MNT 2.6 billion in losses; this year we’re also about one billion in the red due to community disputes and delays.” - A. Tsolmon, CEO, Halzan Buregtei project (itoim.mn)

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Parliamentary Task Force Reviews Oyu Tolgoi Group Operations, Financing Terms, and State Stakes

Published: 2025-09-24

“The temporary committee under the State Great Khural will convene to hear reports on Oyu Tolgoi’s financing terms and the state’s ownership position in related licenses.” - Meeting agenda notice (urug.mn)

A parliamentary temporary oversight committee established by Resolution No. 62/2025 is meeting on September 24 to scrutinize operations across the Oyu Tolgoi group of deposits and assess whether Mongolia’s interests and returns are being met. The agenda includes updates from a working group tasked with defining the state’s ownership share in licenses “Shivee Tolgoi” and “Javkhlant,” held by ONTRE LLC, and mandated to negotiate with investors. Another working group, created under Prime Ministerial Order No. 67/2025, will brief on the review of Oyu Tolgoi project financing interest terms and potential changes to be negotiated with investors. “Erdenes Oyu Tolgoi” LLC will also present. Outcomes could affect state equity positioning and project financing costs.

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Sovereign Future Heritage Fund Eyed to Finance Mortgage Program Through Commercial Banks

Published: 2025-09-24

The government plans to channel about $1.3 billion (MNT 3 trillion) from the Future Heritage Fund into a renewed mortgage program, targeting 80,000 households with 6–13% interest loans via commercial banks rather than a new state housing bank. Officials argue allocating part of the fund—currently earning roughly 3% in foreign accounts—toward mortgages is more efficient than borrowing at around 10%, and note mortgage portfolios have a 99.5% repayment rate. The proposed structure would split funding 50% from the fund, 25% from foreign lenders, and 25% from local banks, prioritizing apartments in Ulaanbaatar’s ger districts and the regions to cut air pollution and shrink ger areas by half. The cabinet also intends to revise the Future Heritage Fund law, modeled on Norway’s, saying Mongolia must address basic needs before long-term savings.

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Central Bank Chief Outlines Banking Reforms and Stability Priorities at AmCham Mongolia Forum

Published: 2025-09-24

AmCham Mongolia hosted a September forum on “Central Bank and Monetary Policy,” featuring Bank of Mongolia Governor B. Lkhagvasuren on banking sector reform and financial stability. He reported the sector expanded 75% over five years (about 12% average annual growth), with non-performing loans easing to 4.4% of total loans in H1 2025. Household credit accounts for 58.3% (MNT 24.6 trillion) and business credit 41.7% (MNT 17.6 trillion). Lkhagvasuren emphasized widening bank ownership, breaking group affiliations, strengthening governance, aligning with international standards, tightening AML/CFT to avoid FATF grey-list risks, and building a fully digital, consumer-centric ecosystem. He said regulatory updates since 2020, most recently on June 14, 2023, aim to facilitate foreign participation through investment and shareholding, improving access to finance and capital allocation for businesses. Over 80 attendees engaged in Q&A linking policy to private-sector needs.

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Parliament Panel Weighs Measures to Boost Mining Exports for 2026 Budget

Published: 2025-09-24

Parliament’s Budget Committee convened a sector-wide discussion on strengthening mining exports to support the 2026 state budget. Chair H. Ganhuyag underscored mining’s outsized role—26% of GDP, 75% of industrial output, 95% of export earnings—and said MNT 9.3 trillion in revenue is planned from the sector in 2026, driven by royalties (MNT 4.1 trillion) and corporate income tax (MNT 3.2 trillion). Export targets include 90 million tonnes of coal, 1.9 million tonnes of copper concentrate, 20 tonnes of gold, and 9.4 million tonnes of iron ore, with improved rail and border capacity expected to lift volumes. The Industry and Minerals Ministry proposed easing exploration licensing, optimizing royalty rates, channeling state and domestic processors’ sales via the commodity exchange, and securing fuel supply as exports rise. The Economy Ministry noted a 13% revenue drop on weaker coal prices and ongoing customs digitalization to speed flows. Industry leaders urged updating pricing rules and enabling seamless transfer of exploration licenses. Lawmakers sought clarity on a planned petroleum stockpile fund and progress on 14 mega projects affecting 2026 macro indicators.

“Coal price declines have cut sector revenues by 13% compared to last year, but customs process reforms and digitalization are stabilizing foreign reserves.” - State Secretary I. Batkhüü, Ministry of Economy and Development (gogo.mn)

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Diplomacy

Bilateral Air Services Agreement with Australia Clears Cabinet, Paving Way for Direct Flights

Published: 2025-09-24

Mongolia’s Cabinet approved a draft Air Services Agreement with Australia and authorized its signing, establishing the legal basis for direct flights between the two countries. Civil aviation authorities from both sides initialed the text and signed a memorandum of understanding in October 2024, setting technical groundwork. The agreement is expected to let Mongolian carriers open new routes, expand market access, and plug into wider international logistics networks, potentially reducing travel costs for students, workers, business travelers, and tourists. The move aligns with deepening ties since diplomatic relations were established in 1972, spanning mining, education, trade, and culture. Direct connectivity could support two-way investment and trade diversification while enhancing tourism flows to and from Australia’s sizable Mongolian community and education sector. No specific launch timeline or designated airlines were disclosed in the reports.

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President Khurelsukh Backs UN Reforms, Highlights Peacekeeping and Climate Agenda at UNGA 80

Published: 2025-09-24

“We support the ‘UN-80’ initiative to make the UN more effective and accountable.” - President U. Khurelsukh (eagle.mn)

President U. Khurelsukh attended the UN General Assembly’s 80th session in New York, using Mongolia’s address to endorse UN reform, gender-balanced leadership, and updating the Security Council for fairer representation. He underscored Mongolia’s long-standing multilateral posture: 23,000 personnel deployed across 16 UN peacekeeping missions, a 14% share of female troops, and a declared nuclear-weapon-free status. Citing uneven global SDG progress (~17%), he noted Mongolia’s 66.7% SDG implementation and advocated financing reforms following the “Seville Commitments.” Khurelsukh urged support for landlocked developing countries and promoted Ulaanbaatar’s 2026 UNCCD COP17 and a 10-year “Pastureland Initiative.” In talks with UN chief António Guterres, both highlighted Mongolia’s role in peacekeeping and combating land degradation. The UNGA runs through late December under President Annalena Baerbock.

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Parliamentary Committee Backs Establishing FAO Country Representation in Ulaanbaatar

Published: 2025-09-24

Parliament’s Security and Foreign Policy Standing Committee endorsed a draft agreement to establish a permanent Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) country office in Mongolia, moving it toward full parliamentary ratification. The FAO has operated in Mongolia since 1973 but activities have been coordinated via Beijing; the new office would grant an independent, resident status and clarify mutual obligations under international law. Officials said initial one-off administrative costs—office setup and basic services—will be covered within the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry’s budget, while FAO projects are expected to expand beyond the 163 initiatives worth $176.4 million implemented over the past 16 years.

“As a sovereign nation, expanding our independent engagement with international organizations is significant; the FAO’s diplomatic status will mirror other agencies, with only a modest, one-time setup cost.” - Minister of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry J. Enkhbayar (ikon.mn)

Committee members voted to authorize the government to sign the agreement.

Coverage:

Mongolia and Türkiye Advance Agricultural Training and Export Cooperation

Published: 2025-09-24

Mongolia’s Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry met with Türkiye’s ambassador to discuss expanding cooperation across livestock, crop production, and light industry. Priorities include aligning veterinary and sanitary documentation to enable exports of Mongolian beef, mutton, goat, horse meat, and by-products; introducing new agri-tech; and fostering research and professional training exchanges. The sides also explored boosting exports of wool, cashmere, and other raw materials, alongside investment and joint projects in crop and plant sectors. The meeting signaled a near-term action plan to elevate cooperation and convert sectoral opportunities into projects, with both parties agreeing to move quickly on implementation.

“We will work to expand our traditional friendly ties and strategic partnership in all sectors and are ready to strengthen people-to-people relations.” - Ambassador Başak Genç Yüksel (montsame.mn)

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Luxembourg, Mongolia Plan High-Level Visits as Health Partnership Expands

Published: 2025-09-24

During the UN General Assembly’s general debate, Mongolia’s Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg met Luxembourg’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Foreign Trade Xavier Bettel. Battsetseg thanked Luxembourg for sustained support to Mongolia’s health sector, notably for backing a National Cardiovascular Center at the Third State Central Hospital and advancing Phase II of a UNICEF-partnered project on preventing and reducing cardiovascular disease. The sides reviewed broader bilateral cooperation and agreed to work toward high- and top-level exchanges in 2026, aligning with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year. The meeting signals continued Luxembourg engagement in Mongolia’s public health and a likely uptick in political contacts and potential trade dialogues linked to the anniversary agenda.

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Foreign Ministers Discuss Expanding Chile–Mongolia Cooperation in Trade and Education

Published: 2025-09-24

“Mongolia attaches special importance to its ties with Latin America, particularly Chile, and seeks close cooperation across mutually beneficial sectors.” - Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg (montsame.mn)

“We are ready to work together to advance our relationship and are pleased to develop cooperation among countries pursuing a feminist approach in foreign policy.” - Foreign Minister Alberto van Klaveren (montsame.mn)

Mongolia’s Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg met Chilean Foreign Minister Alberto van Klaveren on September 22 on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly’s 80th session. The ministers noted recent growth in mining and business ties and explored ways to intensify cooperation in trade and education. The dialogue underscores Ulaanbaatar’s aim to deepen engagement with Latin America and diversify partnerships beyond mining, while aligning with Chile’s interest in collaboration among states integrating feminist principles into foreign policy. Next steps may involve frameworks to facilitate education exchanges and trade promotion channels to capitalize on expanding commercial links.

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Presidents Khurelsukh and Stubb Advance Finland–Mongolia Ties at UN General Assembly

Published: 2025-09-24

President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh met Finland’s President Alexander Stubb on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, with both leaders noting the expansion of historically friendly relations and agreeing to maintain regular high-level exchanges. Stubb invited Khurelsukh for an official visit to Finland, signaling momentum for deeper engagement across trade, education, environment, and renewable energy. The sides discussed placing more Mongolian students in Finnish universities under the “Ilgeelt–2100” scholarship scheme, potentially strengthening skills transfer and institutional links. They also reaffirmed cooperation within the UN and other multilateral bodies, aligning on continued coordination in international forums. The meeting underscores growing European interest in Mongolia’s human capital and green transition priorities, with education and clean energy highlighted as practical next steps.

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Infrastructure

Heating Service Withheld for Debtors as Winter Preparations Advance; Tariff Freeze Extends Through 2025

Published: 2025-09-24

Energy Minister B. Choijilsuren said Ulaanbaatar’s district heating network is ready to supply residences and businesses, with winter readiness at power plants 71% complete and transmission/distribution 82%. Officials shifted load from Thermal Power Plant III to Amgalan and TPP-4 after an outage, aiming to avoid supply gaps. However, consumers with unpaid bills will be cut off from heating, reinforcing collections ahead of peak demand. Night-time electricity tariff subsidies are budgeted at MNT 81 billion for 2025, with an estimated MNT 104 billion needed in 2026 though only MNT 81 billion is in the draft budget. A previously approved heat price increase remains suspended through 2025; decisions beyond that rest with the Energy Regulatory Commission. Authorities are investigating a fatal incident involving a crane operator during substation maintenance.

“Households and companies with outstanding heat bills will not be supplied with heating.” - Energy Minister B. Choijilsuren (news.mn)

“We will not raise the heat tariff until the end of 2025; thereafter, the Energy Regulatory Commission will decide.” - Energy Minister B. Choijilsuren (itoim.mn)

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Route Change and Road Closure Affect Nisekh–MUIS Bus and Erchim Khuch Street Through Oct 1

Published: 2025-09-24

Ulaanbaatar will partially close Erchim Khuch Street in Bayangol District for road widening and upgrades from Sept 25 at 23:00 until Oct 1 at 06:00. As a result, the Ch:24B “Nisekh–MUIS” public bus route will be temporarily diverted via Tavan Shar during the closure, according to the city’s Public Transport Policy Department. Authorities specified a 1.3 km closure from the junction linking Naadamchdyn Road to Erchim Khuch Street up to west of “Khösög Trade,” as part of a broader 5.9 km upgrade plan. Drivers are advised to use alternative roads. The diversion and closure are scheduled to end Oct 1 at 06:00, after which normal traffic and the original bus routing are expected to resume.

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First 110 Units of Bayankhoshuu Green Housing Project Handed Over for State Commissioning

Published: 2025-09-24

Ulaanbaatar advanced its ger district redevelopment with the handover of the first 110 apartments in Bayankhoshuu to the state commissioning body. The broader initiative targets 5,000 energy‑efficient “green” units across Bayankhoshuu and Sharkhad, integrating renewable energy, smarter utilities, and reduced emissions. In Bayankhoshuu, the plan covers 2,816 units over 41.3 hectares; Phase I totals 462 units, of which 110 are complete, 150 units are 57% built, and 76 units are 48% complete. Another 126 units are slated to start next year. In Sharkhad, a 2,184‑unit complex over 19.2 hectares is planned; within the initial 338 units, 110 are 99% complete, 152 are 59%, and 76 are 41%. The program is expected to upgrade housing, roads, and networks, while enabling EDGE-aligned technologies for 20% water savings.

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Ulaanbaatar Advances Tram PPP Plan with Fare Revenue Model and 28-Year Payback Projection

Published: 2025-09-24

Ulaanbaatar’s city council reviewed a two-line tram project to be procured via public–private partnership, with private investors building and operating specified stations for 25 years. Initial investment of $348.16 million is planned for 2025–2027, with total project cost estimated at MNT 2.7 trillion. Forecasts project 121,000 daily trips, annual revenue of MNT 68.5 billion, and operating costs of MNT 24.5 billion, with payback over 28 years supported by fare income, advertising, and potential government subsidies. The city estimates congestion could fall 5–7%. Officials outlined differing timelines for loan repayment, and risk allocation and currency exposure remain under discussion. Line 1 (10.2 km, 14 stops) would run Zunjin–Sukhbaatar Square; Line 2 (15.8 km, 19 stops) Steppe Arena–Sukhbaatar Square. The feasibility study will be submitted to the Government for approval.

“We plan to tender Lines 1 and 2 by October 2025 under a PPP, with private investors financing construction and operating certain stations for 25 years, so we do not expect fiscal risk.” - Deputy Mayor T. Davaadalai (ikon.mn)

“The tram’s economic return shows a $140 million benefit; with state subsidies, the loan would be fully repaid by 2052.” - Economist Ninjin, Ulaanbaatar Unified Project Management Agency (ikon.mn)

“Annual revenue is projected at MNT 68.5 billion against MNT 24.5 billion in costs, based on 121,000 daily trips and supplementary advertising income.” - B. Sodbaatar, Senior Engineer, Ulaanbaatar Tram (ikon.mn)

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Ulaanbaatar to Tender Coal Processing Plant with PPP; Imports to Cover Fuel from October

Published: 2025-09-24

Ulaanbaatar will invite bids in October to build a deep-processing coal plant through a public–private partnership, leveraging the Baganuur Eco-Industrial Park. The move follows the winding down of output at the state-backed Tavan Tolgoi improved briquette facility, which is completing its final 50,000 tons of product before the city shifts to imported coal for household fuel. Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar said winter-readiness measures are largely in place and outlined the city’s pivot to longer-term domestic processing capacity to secure cleaner, more reliable fuel supply and reduce reliance on imports.

“Winter preparations are generally complete… From October, we will use imported coal. By October, Ulaanbaatar will announce a tender to build a coal plant through a public–private partnership, based at the Baganuur eco-industrial park to enable deep processing of coal.” - Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar (eagle.mn)

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Route Change Adds 120 Myangat Stop on Airport Bus X:19; Schedule Unchanged

Published: 2025-09-24

Ulaanbaatar has modified the public bus route X:19 serving Chinggis Khaan International Airport, adding a stop at 120 Myangat and routing via Olympic Bridge and Mahatma Gandhi Street. The service now operates as X:19 “Chinggis Khaan International Airport–Olympic Bridge–Sükhbaatar Square Central Stop,” though departure times and frequency remain unchanged. The adjustment improves connectivity from central districts to the airport, potentially easing transfers from high-density residential areas near 120 Myangat. Airport access by public transport continues to be covered by three services: X:19 (Airport–Olympic Bridge–Sükhbaatar Square), X:20 (Tavan Shar–Airport), and night route SHÜ:4 (Sükhbaatar Square–Airport). No official statements accompanied the update, and authorities did not indicate further changes to schedules or fares.

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Ulaanbaatar Plans 3.6 km Road Linking Yarmag Bridge to Zaisan to Ease Congestion

Published: 2025-09-24

Ulaanbaatar city authorities plan to build a new 3.6 km roadway from Yarmag Bridge to Zaisan to reduce traffic on Chinggis Avenue between Yarmag and the 19th microdistrict. The project team is finalizing designs, cost estimates, and utility relocation complexity, with eight land plots affected along the alignment. Land acquisition will begin shortly, and construction is slated for next year, subject to completion of clearance and engineering preparations. The route will follow the existing pedestrian and cycling corridor south from the “MSM Group” junction and connect with the new Yarmag Bridge. City leaders frame the project as part of broader congestion relief measures in rapidly growing Khan-Uul District.

“We are taking measures to reduce the load on one of the most congested corridors, Chinggis Avenue, by building a 3.6 km road along the pedestrian and bicycle path from the MSM Group turn toward Zaisan.” - Kh. Nyambaatar, Governor of the Capital City and Ulaanbaatar Mayor (montsame.mn)

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Society

Teachers Launch Nationwide Protest Demanding ₮3.5m Base Pay as Government Pitches 3‑Year Raise Plan

Published: 2025-09-24

Teachers across all provinces rallied to demand their base salary be set at ₮3.5 million and for stronger social protections, citing inflation, heavy workloads, and worsening staff shortages. The Education Ministry says a 3‑year, phased increase plan is being prepared with the Finance Ministry; officials estimate ₮3.3 trillion would be needed to lift base pay to ₮3.5 million, a scale the minister called fiscally constrained this year. Union leaders warned of a legal escalation to a strike if talks fail, noting class sizes exceeding 35–70 students and a deficit of 3,800–5,000 teachers, which could double by 2026. Lawmakers urged budget reprioritization from capital spending to salaries, with proposals to add ₮500 billion in 2025 and to pair pay rises with housing support for retention.

“We accept that a robust policy to raise base pay is needed and are ready to discuss a three‑year program with Cabinet and Parliament.” - Education Minister P. Naranbayar (news.mn/urug.mn)

“Bring teachers’ base pay to ₮2.4m next year, then ₮3m, then ₮3.5m, even if that means deferring some capital projects.” - MP S. Erdenebat (urug.mn)

“The draft budget sent to Parliament contains no increase for teachers’ pay; if unresolved, we will move to a strike.” - MCTU President E. Tamir (gogo.mn)

Coverage:

China Border Road Crossings to Close October 1–7 for National Day Holidays

Published: 2025-09-24

Mongolia’s General Authority for Border Protection announced that all Mongolia–China road checkpoints will temporarily close from October 1–7, coinciding with China’s National Day and Mid-Autumn holiday period. Affected crossings include Zamiin-Uud, Bulgan, Burgastai, Shiveekhuren, Gashuunsukhait, Hangi, Bichigt, Khavirga, Sumber, and Bayankhoshuu. Mongolia–Russia road and rail ports will operate normally. International rail and air services are scheduled to continue as usual, minimizing disruption to passenger flows through those modes. Businesses reliant on trucking—especially mining and commodities moving through Gashuunsukhait and Zamiin-Uud—should anticipate a week-long pause in cross-border road logistics and plan for congestion before and after the closure. Authorities signaled the timeframe in advance to allow schedule adjustments across supply chains.

Coverage:

Published: 2025-09-24

By September 20, authorities recorded 185 drug and psychotropic substance crimes nationwide, with 141 suspects charged—up 7.5% and 3.6% year on year, respectively. Ulaanbaatar accounted for 86.5% of cases, with rural areas at 13.5%. Men comprised 85.1% of suspects. In the first nine months, 266 administrative violations under Article 5.1.3 were registered, a 17.3% increase, involving 225 individuals (+5.1%). Police intensified checks across 19 nightlife venues and 21 cultural events, screening 2,327 people and uncovering 145 criminal cases involving 284 individuals, plus 71 intoxication-related violations. Authorities disrupted 56 illegal acts by 21 organized groups with 110 suspects dealing synthetic drugs, and seized user-level quantities totaling 24,349 single-dose units, averting an estimated MNT 2.17 billion in illicit consumption. No new legal measures were announced, but enforcement appears focused on urban nightlife and organized distribution networks.

Coverage:

Environment

Ulaanbaatar Accelerates Household Gas Transition, Targets 65,000 Homes by 2028 as Stove Safety Checks Intensify

Published: 2025-09-24

Ulaanbaatar will shift 5,000 households in high-smog areas of Bayangol, Chingeltei, and parts of Bayankhoshuu to gas this winter after completing insulation by late October and connecting gas in early November. The city plans to expand gas access to 50,000 households in 2026 and 65,000 by winter 2027–2028, paired with storage and distribution upgrades across 22 filling points. Officials say semi-coke briquettes will serve as a transitional fuel. City data attributes 55.6% of air pollution to ger districts, underlining the impact of the coal-to-gas pivot. Concurrently, inspections show 40,000 households use substandard stoves; repairs, replacements, and expanded CO-sensor coverage (110,000 connected, 30,000 more planned) aim to reduce poisoning risks.

“This year we are fully insulating and converting 5,000 households to gas… By 2027–2028, we plan to transition 65,000 households, resolving coal-dependent air pollution in Ulaanbaatar.” - A. Amartuvshin, Deputy Mayor for Social Sector, Green Development, and Air Quality (gogo.mn)

“Similar conditions exist for more than 40,000 households citywide… We are repairing or replacing stoves and installing CO detectors.” - A. Amartuvshin, Deputy Mayor (gogo.mn)

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Ulaanbaatar to Roll Out Semi‑Coke Briquettes on Oct 1 with Import Supply and New Plant Tender

Published: 2025-09-24

Ulaanbaatar will begin selling imported semi‑coke briquette fuel from October 1 at MNT 5,000 per sack, supplying about 306,000 tons alongside 40,000 tons of midling-based briquettes through 400 points this heating season. City officials say certified lab tests in Mongolia, China, Russia, and Korea indicate semi‑coke emits 45–50% less overall pollution, with sharply lower SOx, NOx, CO, and PM emissions, and retains heat longer than current briquettes. Authorities linked a recent fatal carbon monoxide case to unsafe stove handling, underscoring plans to connect 172,000 coal‑using households to smart CO alarms and shift 50,000 homes to gas next year. A PPP tender for a domestic semi‑coke plant will open in October as the city pursues a path away from coal-fired heating.

“Semi‑coke will cut fine particulates by up to 80% and reduce overall pollution by 45–50% this winter.” - Deputy Mayor A. Amartuvshin (gogo.mn)

“We are tendering a semi‑coke plant and expanding smart CO detector coverage to monitor all solid-fuel homes in one system.” - Deputy Mayor A. Amartuvshin (news.mn)

Coverage:

Published: 2025-09-24

The government formed a multi-agency task force—bringing together the General Intelligence Agency, Anti-Corruption Agency, Justice Ministry, Industry and Minerals Ministry, and Environment Ministry—to investigate illegal gold extraction concentrated in Darkhan, Selenge, and Tuv. Officials say abuses stem from the 2014 law that devolved licensing for common minerals (sand, gravel, stone) to local authorities, enabling over 480 permits across 64,800 hectares and alleged misuse to access auriferous deposits. Planned amendments aim to align the Common Minerals Law with the Mining Law and centralize oversight. Authorities also flagged schemes using fish-farming permits to mine riverbanks and alleged collusion by law enforcement. The new “Gold-3” resolution empowers intelligence to curb illicit exports and supports financing to boost formal gold deliveries and foreign reserves.

“We decided to create a joint task force to conduct a wide-ranging inspection and fight illegal gold mining.” - Industry and Minerals Minister G. Damdinnym (news.mn)

“There were cases where permits to create ponds and breed fish were used to dig for gold along riverbanks.” - Industry and Minerals Minister G. Damdinnym (eagle.mn)

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Regional Seminar Reviews Air Quality, Desertification and Drought Programs as NEASPEC Sets 2026–2030 Plan

Published: 2025-09-24

An international seminar in Ulaanbaatar reviewed Mongolia’s air quality management and regional efforts on desertification, land degradation, and drought, held alongside the 28th Senior Officials Meeting (SOM-28) of the UNESCAP-backed NEASPEC program. Officials discussed Mongolia’s current air quality status, policy coordination, institutional linkages, and challenges, while exchanging updates on low-carbon city initiatives, biodiversity, and conservation across Northeast Asia. Participants advanced work to approve NEASPEC’s 2026–2030 strategic plan, budget, and results framework, aligning national and regional agendas. The event gathered over 40 representatives from Mongolia, China, Russia, South Korea, and Japan, as well as the NEASPEC Secretariat.

“Mongolia will host the 17th Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification in August 2026. The outcomes of SOM-28 will make an important contribution to COP17 and regional cooperation.” - D. Zolbayar, State Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Tourism (montsame.mn)

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Innovation

Card Payments to Auto-Register VAT Receipts as Government Pushes ‘Digital First’ Reforms

Published: 2025-09-24

Mongolia’s cabinet approved a “Digital First” policy to digitize government and business services, aligning paper and electronic documents with equal legal standing. The government has begun linking bank card purchases to the e-Barimt VAT receipt system; Toriin Bank, Golomt Bank, and XacBank are already connected, with nationwide rollout across banks and merchants targeted within two weeks. Officials tie the move to the 2026 budget plan to raise VAT cashback to 5%, potentially lifting annual refunds for consumers. The e-Mongolia 5.0 platform launched with an AI assistant for 24/7 guidance, while the DAN 2.0 digital ID upgrade adds face recognition to serve citizens abroad without local bank accounts or numbers. An AI national strategy to 2030 and plans to procure GPUs aim to build domestic capacity for public services and startups.

“We approved the ‘Digital First’ policy to digitize all social and economic relations and treat paper and electronic documents equally.” - E. Batshugar, Minister for Digital Development and Communications (gogo.mn)

“Within one to two weeks, all banks and merchants will automatically link card purchases to e-Barimt.” - E. Batshugar, Minister for Digital Development and Communications (eagle.mn)

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Cabinet Backs ‘Digital First’ Governance, Revamps Economic Council and Endorses AI–Big Data Strategy

Published: 2025-09-24

The Cabinet approved a “Digital First” guidance to prioritize technology in decision-making and service delivery across all government tiers, phasing out paper-based processes and accelerating e-government with public–private collaboration. The move formalizes a principle within long-term development plans to make digital the default for policies and services.

“With the Digital First policy, any decision, service, and operation involving the state, citizens, and legal entities should be digital by default.” - E. Batshugar, Minister for Digital Development, Innovation and Communications (montsame.mn)

Ministers also reconstituted the Economic Development Council to advise the Prime Minister with members from the Cabinet, Bank of Mongolia, regulators, business associations, academia, and major firms; its operations will not add budget costs. Separately, the Cabinet endorsed a National Big Data and AI Strategy for 2026–2030, targeting AI ecosystem building, sectoral deployment (mining, fintech, environment, health, education, agriculture), exportable AI models, and investor-friendly rules for international data centers. Additional resolutions covered special protected areas and strengthened oversight of artisanal and common mineral permits.

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VAT Refund Raised to 5% as Government Rolls Out AI Strategy and Digital E-Receipt System

Published: 2025-09-24

The cabinet approved a package of digital and fiscal measures, increasing the VAT refund rate to 5% and targeting refunds for 80% of citizens through a redesigned system. Authorities expect a four-person household to receive slightly over MNT 2 million annually under the new approach. The government will also shift from paper to fully digital e-receipts, adopt a national artificial intelligence strategy, create a tax-incentivized “virtual zone,” and launch D-Government.mn for public feedback and complaints. Officials frame the AI strategy as a development accelerator and the digital tax reforms as broad-based support for households.

“We are making VAT refunds 5% and introducing a system that provides refunds to 80% of our citizens. A four-person household will receive over MNT 2 million a year in refunds.” - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (ikon.mn)

“The national AI strategy will take Mongolia’s development to a new stage.” - Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar (ikon.mn)

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Health

Carbon Monoxide Poisonings Spike in Ulaanbaatar; Three Deaths Reported as Rains Disrupt Venting

Published: 2025-09-24

“In recent days, carbon monoxide poisoning and deaths have sharply increased.” - T. Khostsetseg, Head of Toxicology and Rapid Response, National Center for Public Health (ikon.mn)

Ulaanbaatar health authorities reported 81 people sought treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning on September 23, with three fatalities across two households, according to the National Center for Public Health. Cases were logged in 31 households, concentrated in Songinokhairkhan (28), Bayanzürkh (24), Chingeltei (21), Bayangol (8), and Khan-Uul (3). Officials link the surge to recent rainfall and unstable weather that reduce stove draft when chimneys are removed or dampers are closed, and when wet fuel is used. Residents are urged not to remove chimneys or cover stove vents during rain, keep dampers open, use functioning CO detectors, and avoid having children tend fires. The seasonal onset of colder, wetter conditions elevates risk in ger districts reliant on coal and solid-fuel stoves.

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Cardiovascular Care Demand Seen Surging 2.6 Times by 2030 as Mortality Stays High

Published: 2025-09-24

Cardiovascular disease remains Mongolia’s leading cause of death over the past two decades, with 5,789 deaths last year—27% higher than cancer-related mortality. Authorities report 36.3% of deaths from cardiovascular causes occur among those aged 45–65, and 30.5% of the population has a cardiovascular condition. If current trends persist, demand for cardiovascular services could rise 2.6 times by 2030, including a 0.87x increase in cardiac surgeries, 1.45x in endovascular procedures, and 2.66x in diagnostics and treatment at the State Third Central Hospital’s (UGTЭ) center. Failure to curb incidence risks missing the Sustainable Development Goal to reduce cardiovascular mortality to 14 per 10,000 by 2030. In response, the government and Health Ministry are advancing plans to build a dedicated Cardiovascular Center on the UGTЭ campus to expand capacity.

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Arts

Australian Entry Picks Mongolian-Language Climate Migration Film for Best International Feature Consideration

Published: 2025-09-24

Australia has selected The Wolves Always Come at Night, a Mongolian-language co-production with Australia and Germany, as its official submission for the Academy Awards’ Best International Feature category. Directed by Gabriel Brady, the film is also positioned as a contender in Best Documentary. Chosen from 16 Australian contenders, the feature portrays the real story of a herder family from Buutsagaan, Bayankhongor, forced to relocate to Ulaanbaatar after extreme weather linked to climate change. Shot on the Mongolian steppe with a multinational crew alongside Mongolian creatives, the film marks a first for a Mongolia-set, Mongolian-language narrative to represent Australia in this Oscar category. Broad domestic release is planned via Univision and VOO from October 15, 2025, expanding visibility ahead of the 98th Academy Awards cycle.

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