Politics
Malaysian Appeal Court Clears Government in Altantuya Case, Cuts Family Payout to RM1.38 Million
Published: 2026-01-20
Malaysia’s Court of Appeal overturned a lower court ruling holding the government liable for the 2006 murder of Mongolian national Shaariibuu Altantuya, shifting compensation responsibility to named individuals and reducing the award to her family from RM5 million to RM1.38–1.4 million. Judges found former police officers Sirul Azhar Umar and Azilah Hadri acted outside official duties, removing vicarious liability for the state. The court reportedly dismissed a bid by political analyst Abdul Razak Baginda to avoid liability, maintaining a reduced payment obligation. Altantuya’s family plans to take the case to the Federal Court, extending an 18-year legal saga over a killing linked to political circles but with motive unresolved.
“Altantuya’s family will appeal this decision to the Federal Court.” - Sangeet Kaur Deo, family lawyer (montsame.mn)
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Transport Ministry Secretary Probed for Fast-Tracked Power Permit and Alleged Kickback Tied to Bayankhundii Gold Project
Published: 2026-01-20
Mongolia’s anti-corruption authority is investigating Transport Ministry Secretary B. Nasantogtokh for allegedly abusing his former post at the Energy Ministry to fast-track an electrical supply permit for the Bayankhundii gold project and then benefiting via his spouse’s firm. Investigators say he approved technical conditions for MCS International’s power infrastructure on the same day the request was filed in November 2023, later linking his wife’s company, En Ar Ji Khögjil LLC, to a 5.5 billion MNT contract to supply steel-core aluminum conductors in June 2024. The Bayankhundii project is operated by Erdene Mongol, jointly owned by Mongolian Mining Corporation (MCS Group) and Erdene Resources. The case adds scrutiny to energy-sector approvals intersecting with major mining buildouts. Nasantogtokh has been named a suspect under articles on money laundering and abuse of office; about 350 million MNT in cash was reportedly seized during searches. No court ruling has been issued.
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Published: 2026-01-20
A district court ordered 30-day detention for former Energy Minister N. Tavinbekh, now CEO of Thermal Power Plant No. 4, and P. Tovuudorj, a current commissioner at the Energy Regulatory Commission, as prosecutors pursue abuse-of-power charges. The case centers on a concessional $148.7 million loan from Korea Eximbank for the “10 provincial centers’ heating plants” project. Prosecutors allege that after a tri-partite consortium underperformed and its contract expired, Tavinbekh, then Energy Ministry state secretary, unlawfully expanded the consultancy budget by $2.6 million, conferring an economic advantage. The consultancy allegedly included Green Energy International, linked to Tovuudorj’s associate. The court cited risks of evidence tampering under criminal procedure when approving detention. If substantiated, the case could reshape oversight of donor-funded infrastructure, heighten scrutiny of related tenders, and affect future energy-sector procurements.
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Lawmaker Urges Deputy PM T. Dorjkhands to Quit Over Ongoing Power Outages and Price Hikes
Published: 2026-01-20
Member of Parliament U. Shijir criticized Deputy Prime Minister T. Dorjkhands over persistent electricity outages and restrictions, arguing that price increases followed government moves to lift power tariffs two years ago. Shijir claimed the deputy prime minister had “only raised electricity prices” and failed to deliver reliability improvements, alleging broad inflation in essential goods and seasonal staples ahead of Lunar New Year. He pressed Dorjkhands to honor an earlier pledge to leave politics if blackouts continued after two years. The remarks reflect political pressure over energy sector performance and living costs, a sensitive issue as winter demand peaks and households face higher expenses.
“He became a minister and raised the electricity price—he did nothing else. Two years have passed, and outages and restrictions continue. He should keep his word and leave politics.” - MP U. Shijir (isee.mn)
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Land Ownership Applications Shift to Central Government Rules, New Requests Pushed to 2027 Decisions
Published: 2026-01-20
Mongolia revised procedures for issuing land possession and use certificates after 2023 amendments to the Land Law transferred rulemaking from the sectoral agency to the Cabinet. Government Resolution No. 121 (March 2024) updated the regulation, enabling 27 land-related services to be filed via www.egazar.gov.mn and the “egazar” app, with statutory processing windows of 1–15 days depending on the request type. Despite this, applicants reported delays in 2024 and website outages. Authorities say transfers and term extensions are processed online within 15 days under the law, while land ownership requests that are already included in approved plans are decided within one month. Newly filed requests must pass required stages and be placed into next year’s plan; if incorporated, they could be decided in 2027. The timeline signals continued backlog management and prioritization of pre-planned cases.
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Draft Law Proposes Voluntary Private Pensions with 2% Salary Contributions
Published: 2026-01-20
The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection has finalized a draft Law on Private Supplementary Pensions, set for Cabinet review after interagency consultations. The proposal establishes a voluntary, contribution-based, fully funded system to complement state pensions, aligning with international practices where 2–4% of salaries are saved; Mongolia’s draft sets a 2% benchmark. It would allow members to receive benefits in addition to Social Insurance pensions, permit inheritance, and enable early withdrawals for specified purposes: overseas medical treatment unavailable domestically, annual tuition at Mongolian higher-education institutions, and housing. Employers participating in a plan must cover at least 50% of monthly contributions, with employees paying the remainder. Private pension funds would be LLCs with ownership caps of 20% per founder and invest under defined rules. Benefit options include lump-sum, scheduled, or lifetime annuities, selectable once.
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7,000 Sign D-Parliament Petition to Elect Ulaanbaatar Mayor by Popular Vote
Published: 2026-01-20
An e-petition on Mongolia’s D-Parliament platform seeking direct elections for Ulaanbaatar’s mayor has gathered 7,000 signatures within five days, signaling growing public pressure to change how the capital’s leadership is chosen. The petition, launched on January 15 by citizen Monkhoryn Törtogtokh, argues that the current appointment system ties the mayor’s accountability to Parliament and party politics rather than city residents, contributing to policy instability on issues such as air pollution, traffic congestion, land use, roads, public transport, and green zones. Backers are urging amendments to the Law on Administrative and Territorial Units, the Law on the Legal Status of the Capital City, and related electoral laws to enable a direct, competitive vote for the mayor.
“Ulaanbaatar’s residents must elect their own leadership so the Mayor is directly accountable to citizens and defends policies publicly.” - Monkhoryn Törtogtokh (isee.mn)
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Economy
Ulaanbaatar Starts Early Sale of 5,000 Tons of State-Reserved Meat Across 410 Shops to Cool Prices
Published: 2026-01-20
Ulaanbaatar launched retail sales of state-reserved meat on January 20 across nine districts, expanding to about 410 grocery outlets, with beef priced at MNT 15,000/kg and mutton at MNT 13,000/kg. Authorities stockpiled 5,000 tons (40% beef, 60% mutton) and advanced the rollout—typically March—to counter tightened supply and elevated retail prices; open-market beef has been selling for roughly MNT 27,000/kg. City officials said quality and safety checks include both scheduled and unscheduled inspections in January, and packaging mixes popular cuts to balance supply. Reported participating outlets vary by source (373–410) as distribution ramps up. The city allocated MNT 8.7 billion in subsidies to support the program, though volumes are lower than last year’s 8,713 tons, suggesting potential constraints on duration and coverage during Lunar New Year demand.
“We advanced the sales this year because supply has tightened and price distortions increased; the reserved meat meets storage and quality standards and was prepared in November–December by selected processors.” - J. Dulamsüren, Head of Food, Trade and Services Department, Ulaanbaatar Mayor’s Office (urug.mn)
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Fuel Supply Remains Stable with 173,000 Tons Imported in First 20 Days of January
Published: 2026-01-20
The Ministry of Mining and Heavy Industry reports stable fuel supply conditions, citing 173,182 tons of fuel imported via key road checkpoints between January 1–20. Breakdown: 69,225 tons of AI-92 gasoline, 1,987 tons of AI-95, 96,986 tons of diesel, and 951 tons of TS-1 jet fuel. Rail logistics remain active, with 704 fuel tank wagons positioned at Ulaanbaatar Railway stations or en route, including 191 wagons (11,460 tons) of AI-92, nine wagons (540 tons) of AI-95, 479 wagons (28,740 tons) of diesel, 13 wagons (780 tons) of TS-1, and 12 wagons of liquefied petroleum gas. The update signals no immediate risk of shortages, important for winter heating, transport, and aviation operations, and suggests cross-border flows through Sukhbaatar, Ereentsav, Tsagaannuur, Borshoo, and Zamiin-Uud are functioning normally.
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Golomt Bank Opens USD Account with India’s HDFC, Enabling Direct Transfers and Trade Links
Published: 2026-01-20
Golomt Bank has opened a US dollar correspondent account with India’s largest private-sector lender, HDFC Bank, allowing its clients to send USD transfers directly to India. The tie-up aims to lower costs and improve speed and reliability for cross-border payments while laying groundwork for expanded Mongolia–India trade and investment flows. HDFC operates 9,500+ branches and 21,000 ATMs across 4,100+ Indian locations, reports total assets of about $460 billion as of March 31, 2025, and maintains international offices in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Bahrain, with representative offices in London, Abu Dhabi, and Nairobi. Golomt says it executed more than 35% of Mongolia’s outbound USD transfers by volume and 45% by value in 2025 and currently partners with 27 financial institutions across multiple regions and 15 currencies.
“We are pleased to expand our cross-border payments reach through cooperation with a leading international bank, which will open India’s market to domestic businesses and reduce transaction costs as bilateral commerce grows.” - A. Odonbaatar, CEO of Golomt Bank (ikon.mn)
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Mortgage Program Faces Backlog and Price Distortions as Policymakers Tinker with Terms
Published: 2026-01-20
Mongolia’s subsidized mortgage scheme, launched in 2013, has financed MNT 10.1 trillion for 139,000 households but now shows strain: as of September 2025, unresolved applications total MNT 4.9 trillion, with about 17,400 applicants waiting up to two years due to scarce low-interest funding. Caps—80 sq m units and MNT 150 million per borrower—no longer match market prices, while past policy shifts fueled housing inflation. Analysts say cutting the mortgage rate from 8% to 6% should have eased payments, yet developers raised prices, increasing borrowers’ average monthly burden by roughly 16%. They argue state interference should recede so market financing can stabilize supply and curb price bubbles.
“It is time to streamline—and essentially conclude—the current subsidized mortgage program, removing direct state involvement so the market can develop on its own terms.” - B. Munkhzaya, Vice President for Undergraduate Studies and Research, SAI of Economics and Business (eagle.mn)
“Do not treat mortgages as welfare. The 6% rate below inflation creates losses that taxpayers ultimately cover.” - N. Zoljargal, former Governor of the Bank of Mongolia (eagle.mn)
The article also flags “in-house leasing” by developers at headline 6% that embeds effective costs of 23–25%, further distorting the market and leaving buyers worse off than standard commercial loans.
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Tugrik Weakens Against Euro, Ruble, and Yuan; Slightly Firms Versus U.S. Dollar on Monthly Basis
Published: 2026-01-20
Mongolia’s tugrik softened against the euro, ruble, and yuan in December while edging stronger against the U.S. dollar compared with November, according to official data. The monthly average exchange rate to the euro fell to MNT 4,155.07, down MNT 575.5 year-on-year and MNT 26.4 from November. Against the ruble, the tugrik averaged MNT 45.26, weakening by MNT 12 year-on-year and MNT 0.8 month-on-month. The yuan rate averaged MNT 503.91, down MNT 34.5 from a year earlier and MNT 1.5 from November. In contrast, the tugrik averaged MNT 3,549.18 per U.S. dollar—MNT 131.3 weaker year-on-year but MNT 22.5 stronger than November. The differing moves highlight cross-currency dynamics at year-end, relevant for trade settlements and import cost planning across Mongolia’s diversified currency exposures.
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Economist Urges Economic Freedom Law to Serve as Overarching Guardrail on State Intervention
Published: 2026-01-20
Economist B. Khash-Erdene warns Mongolia’s economic outlook for 2026 is unlikely to improve, citing flat commodity prices—especially coal—export bottlenecks at border crossings, rising costs from currency weakness and energy prices, and muted prospects for foreign investment. He says many firms face shrinking sales and margins, struggling even to sustain payrolls, while domestic investors increasingly move capital abroad. On inflation, he questions official single-digit figures, arguing essential goods drove last year’s price gains more than public-sector wage hikes. He opposes automatic pension increases, calling for urgent reform of the pay-as-you-go system to curb political distortions. He backs tax code adjustments to remove overlaps rather than lower rates, and presses for an Economic Freedom Law to act as a “capstone” that limits state ownership and market intervention.
“The Economic Freedom Law should be a ‘capstone’ like the Constitution, setting principles that restrain the state from overreaching into markets and creating new state-owned companies.” - Economist B. Khash-Erdene (news.mn)
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AI-92 Gasoline Price Unchanged at Major Ulaanbaatar Station Despite Online Hike Claims
Published: 2026-01-20
Social media posts alleged a price hike for regular AI-92 gasoline to MNT 3,080 per liter, prompting minor queues at some fuel stations since Thursday. However, as of 08:00 on January 20, a Petroviss station near the west side of Enkhtaivan Bridge in Khan-Uul District was selling AI-92 at the previous price of MNT 2,590, with no lines and normal operations, according to gogo.mn’s on-site check. The report indicates some stations reportedly adjusted price boards the previous evening, stirring public concern, but the verification suggests pricing remains unchanged at least at that location. For consumers, the discrepancy underscores the need to confirm prices at specific stations, while for businesses the episode highlights how market rumors can trigger short-lived demand surges and logistical pressure without formal price moves.
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Taxpayers Can Claim Tuition Tax Relief by Filing Annual PIT Return Online by Feb. 15
Published: 2026-01-20
Mongolia’s tax authority reminded individual taxpayers to file their Personal Income Tax (PIT) return online by February 15 to access education-related tax relief. Parents or guardians can claim a deduction equal to the PIT on income corresponding to their children’s university tuition payments. The guidance emphasizes preparing required documentation and attaching it electronically through the e-filing system. While the article underscores the annual deadline and eligibility tied to higher-education tuition, it also notes that the tax office has issued step-by-step instructions to streamline submissions. This measure effectively reduces tax liabilities for households paying tertiary tuition and signals continued reliance on digital tax administration. Media usage restrictions were also reiterated by the source outlet. No direct statements from named officials were provided in the article.
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Homeowners With Two or More Apartments Must Select Tax-Exempt Units by Feb. 10
Published: 2026-01-20
By January 15 each year, all real estate in Mongolia is assessed for property tax. In Ulaanbaatar, individuals who own two or more apartments must annually designate two units to be exempt and submit their property tax report via the eTax system (etax.mta.mn) by February 10. Upon logging into the unified eTax portal, eligible users will see an automatic selection window listing their residential properties; they must choose two apartments for exemption and file the property tax declaration before the deadline. Failure to submit within the legal timeframe may lead to compliance risks or penalties. This process applies to owners of multiple residential properties in the capital and must be repeated annually to maintain exemptions.
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External Debt Rises 13% as Bank Credit Expands 21% in 2024, Statistics Office Reports
Published: 2026-01-20
Mongolia’s National Statistics Office reported broad monetary growth and rising leverage through November 2024. Money supply reached MNT 45.8 trillion, up 10.5% year-on-year, with cash in circulation at MNT 1.2 trillion. Tugrik and foreign-currency deposits both increased 17.4–19.4%, reflecting stronger liquidity. Domestic credit climbed 21% to MNT 43.4 trillion, indicating robust lending to households and businesses. As of Q3 2025, total external debt stood at USD 40.4 billion, 13% higher than a year earlier. The debt increase was driven primarily by a 74.8% rise in lending by non‑BoM deposit-taking institutions, a 9.9% increase in intercompany loans classified as direct investment, and a 7.3% rise in government debt. The figures suggest continued credit expansion alongside growing external liabilities that may shape funding conditions and policy priorities in 2025.
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Diplomacy
Russia Pledges Uninterrupted Fuel Supplies in 2026; Joint Steps Set to Stabilize Deliveries
Published: 2026-01-20
Mongolia and Russia agreed on measures to ensure stable petroleum product supplies, with Moscow committing to uninterrupted deliveries in 2026 and to include Mongolian orders earlier in exporters’ production plans. The countries will hold regular online coordination between their energy ministries and may temporarily lease storage near the border in Russia to build reserves while Mongolia expands domestic capacity. They also discussed creating an end-to-end management “ecosystem” to oversee fuel flows from Russian plants to Mongolian end users—an effort aimed at avoiding recent shortages and improving predictability for importers and critical sectors. Officials from Gazprom, Rosneft, Tatneft, Russian Railways and others joined the talks, underscoring the supply chain approach.
“We will fully honor our intergovernmental commitments and support stable petroleum product supplies to Mongolia going forward.” - Russian Energy Minister S. E. Tsivilyov (montsame.mn)
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Spain’s Indra Discusses Partnership to Upgrade Mongolia’s Air Navigation Systems
Published: 2026-01-20
Spain-based Indra has held talks with the Ministry of Road and Transport Development on collaborating to modernize Mongolia’s air navigation and air traffic management systems. The meeting with Minister B. Delgersaihan explored expanding cooperation in civil aviation and upgrading navigation and surveillance infrastructure. Indra has supplied Mongolia’s Civil Aviation Authority with seven air traffic management systems since 2009; five radars are currently operating in Bayankhongor’s Bombogor, Dornogovi’s Saikhandulaan, Khentii’s Bor-Öndör, and Dundgovi’s Ölziit. The 2026 state budget reduces the share of air navigation service fees remitted to the treasury for the first time, earmarking 40 billion MNT for equipment upgrades to bolster international flight safety. Authorities are fast-tracking consultations with international organizations and technology providers, signaling an acceleration of procurement and modernization timelines across critical aviation assets.
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South Korea to Drop DUI Case Against Mongolian Embassy Staff Under Diplomatic Immunity
Published: 2026-01-20
Seoul’s Gangnam Police said they will dismiss a criminal case against an administrative employee of Mongolia’s embassy who allegedly drove under the influence and caused a three-car collision in December, injuring two South Korean citizens. Authorities cited the individual’s assertion of diplomatic immunity under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which shields accredited personnel from criminal jurisdiction in the host country. The incident has intensified scrutiny of how immunity is applied, particularly in South Korea where DUI offenses carry severe penalties. South Korean media reported the driver’s blood alcohol level met the threshold for license revocation, prompting public anger over the lack of accountability. Local reaction captured by Chosun TV reflected frustration with perceived impunity and calls for stronger consequences through the diplomat’s home country following the dismissal decision.
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Infrastructure
Power Cuts Rolled Out in Ulaanbaatar after Thermal Power Plant No. 4 Boiler Damage
Published: 2026-01-20
Ulaanbaatar faced rolling electricity restrictions on January 20 after Thermal Power Plant No. 4 reported damage to a boiler’s heating surface while operating at full capacity without backup equipment. The outage created a system-wide power shortfall, prompting the National Dispatching Center to order targeted cuts across designated districts for roughly 1.5 hours at a time. The Ulaanbaatar Electricity Distribution Network (UBEDN) published tentative schedules and said customers would receive SMS alerts tied to contract phone numbers. Authorities indicated repairs could be completed within 24 hours. The measures come during severe cold, heightening demand and stressing generation assets. Businesses and households were urged to reduce non-essential consumption to maintain grid stability. No injuries or broader system failures were reported, but the incident underscores winter reliability risks and the capital’s reliance on aging thermal units for baseload power.
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Ulaanbaatar Plans Tuul River Water Complex to Store and Supply 50 Million m³
Published: 2026-01-20
Ulaanbaatar city authorities plan the Tuul River Water Complex to capture rain and surface runoff, addressing rising demand and groundwater depletion risks. Sited on the upper Tuul at 1,352 meters elevation near the capital, the project aims to shorten transmission pipelines and lower investment costs while avoiding protected forests and wildlife zones. Engineering studies set the dam axis perpendicular to flow to promote natural silt self-cleansing. The complex—covering 5,569 sq m—includes a reservoir, transmission network, and treatment facilities; the dam will be 685.15 meters long, 35.8 meters high, with sediment depth of 19.84 meters. Once operational, it is designed to supply 50 million m³ of water annually to the city and store an additional 50 million m³ during heavy rains, bolstering water security and supporting Tuul River ecosystem flows during drought years.
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Railway Ramps Up 24/7 Coal Deliveries to Secure Winter Power Supply
Published: 2026-01-20
Ulaanbaatar Railway (UBTZ) is operating around the clock to supply coal to key thermal power stations, deploying 1,300 company-owned wagons. In the first 15 days of 2026, 6,778 wagons of coal were moved from Baganuur, Shivee-Ovoo, and Sharyn Gol mines to plants in Ulaanbaatar, Darkhan, and Erdenet, building roughly 16 days of stock for peak winter demand. UBTZ is also coordinating imports of semi-coke (khökh coal) from China via Ereen, moving 103 trains (5,007 wagons) totaling 237,000 tons since September 20, 2025, with 69,000 tons remaining from a planned 306,000 tons this winter. Additionally, 95,200 tons of middlings feedstock for improved briquettes have been transported since September 17. Authorities cite reduced household coal use from semi-coke imports as contributing to up to a 30% decrease in Ulaanbaatar’s winter air pollution.
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Ulaanbaatar Reopens Heated Bus Shelters after Repairs as Extreme Cold Exposes Gaps
Published: 2026-01-20
Ulaanbaatar’s heated bus shelters are being reopened following repairs after days of -38°C to -40°C temperatures highlighted service gaps. City authorities report about 70 heated shelters across six central districts, with notable outages: of 24 shelters in Songinokhairkhan, 19 are operating; in Bayanzurkh, five of 12 were closed due to vandalism and theft; and in Khan-Uul, three of six are shut. Officials said two Bayanzurkh shelters were repaired and reopened yesterday, with others to follow. Persistent closures were attributed to damage, cleanliness issues, and misuse by vulnerable individuals, drawing public criticism over accessibility during peak congestion and unreliable bus schedules. The episode underscores infrastructure maintenance, security, and social policy trade-offs for urban services during severe winter weather, with operational reliability still unclear for several shelters as the cold season nears its end.
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Society
Police Report Facebook Fraud Using Fake “Ugalztai Boots” Listing Ahead of Lunar New Year
Published: 2026-01-20
Mongolian police recorded a case in which a buyer transferred MNT 750,000 as a deposit for “ugalztai” boots advertised on Facebook, only to be defrauded. Authorities note such scams rise seasonally with Lunar New Year shopping, as offenders exploit demand by posting convincing listings that promise below-market prices, limited stock, and fast delivery, then request advance payments. Last year, 16,906 fraud cases were registered nationwide, including 5,214 involving orders for goods and services. The police advise consumers to scrutinize online sellers, avoid deposits before physically inspecting goods, and prioritize in-person exchanges or verified platforms. The incident underscores persistent vulnerabilities in Mongolia’s online marketplace and highlights the need for stronger consumer verification practices during peak retail periods.
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Ulaanbaatar City Councilor B. Erdenesukh’s Domestic Violence Case Sent to Trial
Published: 2026-01-20
Prosecutors in Ulaanbaatar have filed formal charges against B. Erdenesukh, a member of the capital’s Citizens’ Representative Khural and head of the Democratic Party caucus, sending his case to first-instance criminal courts covering Bayangol, Khan-Uul, and Songinokhairkhan districts. He is accused under Criminal Code Articles 11.7.1 and 11.7.2 of routinely assaulting and cruelly treating a family member, and under Article 13.12.1 of unlawfully tracking another person by installing a location device on a vehicle. The allegations include long-term domestic abuse claims made public online and at a press conference by his spouse, O. Narangarav. The case underscores stricter enforcement of Mongolia’s domestic violence laws and could carry custodial penalties if convictions follow. Court review is underway following last week’s indictment by the Capital City Prosecutor’s Office.
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Facebook Scam Targets Pensioners by Promising Large ‘Benefits’ via Khan Bank Accounts
Published: 2026-01-20
A new Facebook scam is exploiting Mongolian pensioners by falsely promising payouts of MNT 80–500 million if they receive pensions through Khan Bank. Posts from a page named “Social Assistance” instruct users to comment “OK” and then solicit personal details—name, phone number, and bank information—along with one-time verification codes. Fraudsters reportedly use these credentials to access victims’ accounts and take out the maximum possible loans against their pension income, effectively draining funds. Police have urged the public to avoid sharing personal or banking data and to ignore unsolicited messages about benefits. The scheme underscores persistent vulnerabilities around social media fraud and the use of verification codes, particularly among retirees receiving state pensions through commercial banks.
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Environment
Deep Freeze Holds Through Friday; Severe Nighttime Lows Easing From Weekend
Published: 2026-01-20
Mongolia remains under a strong Arctic cold pattern through Jan. 23, with most regions dry, breezy, and dangerously cold overnight. Forecasts from the national meteorological agency indicate widespread lows of -36°C to -49°C in basins and river valleys, with Ulaanbaatar’s Yarmag–Songino areas dipping to -41°C to -43°C and city daytime highs near -25°C to -27°C. Authorities report Darkhan-Uul recorded -49°C overnight, underscoring heightened risk for frostbite, vehicle failures, and infrastructure strain. Guidance stresses vehicle checks, safe heating, and reduced outdoor exposure. Conditions begin moderating from Jan. 22–23, first in the west and then nationwide, with light snow expected Jan. 24–26 across western, central, and eastern zones. Into next week, daytime temperatures improve gradually, but sub- -30°C nights will persist in colder valleys. No significant snowfall or wind events are expected before the late-week fronts.
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Humanitarian Partners Ready to Scale Support as Harsh Winter Raises Dzud Risk
Published: 2026-01-20
UN agencies and the Mongolian Red Cross joined the government’s “Humanitarian Team” to assess deteriorating winter conditions and prepare for a potential dzud, particularly during spring calving. Participants emphasized real-time, reliable data as the basis for fast, targeted aid. Officials said nine provinces’ 36 soums are experiencing white dzud, with 54 soums in 16 provinces at risk, based on government criteria comparing snow depth, density, and temperatures to long-term averages. Coordination mechanisms will continue, with the next meeting set to align government updates and partner actions. International organizations signaled willingness to scale assistance if conditions worsen, underscoring early warning and prevention steps taken since autumn.
“Winter and spring conditions may further deteriorate, so objective risk assessments and timely information-sharing are essential for swift, effective humanitarian response.” - Colonel T. Bayarkhuu, Secretary of the State Emergency Commission (unuudur.mn)
“Since last autumn, the Government and the Humanitarian Team have implemented substantial early warning and preventive measures.” - Jaap van Hierden, UN Resident Coordinator (montsame.mn)
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Dornod to Deliver 126 Tons of Fodder to Hard-Hit Districts as Authorities Coordinate Herd Movements
Published: 2026-01-20
Dornod Province’s Emergency Commission approved the delivery of 126 tons of carryover hay from provincial reserves to Gurvanzagal and Chuluunkhoroot soums, where local stocks have run out. Authorities also instructed relevant agencies to rapidly organize herder transhumance and relocations for bag-level areas experiencing severe snowpack and dzud-like conditions. As of January 20, widespread risk zones include all of Dashbalbar, Gurvanzagal, and Chuluunkhoroot, along with specific bags in Sergelen, Choibalsan, Bayandun, and Tsagaan-Ovoo. A task team led by the provincial Department of Food and Agriculture head recently completed on-site assessments. This winter, 6,527 herder households are overwintering 2.69 million head of livestock in Dornod, heightening the importance of timely fodder distribution and mobility support to prevent major losses.
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Innovation
Teacher Pay Scales Lifted 50% with Top Earners Reaching ₮4.7 Million After January Adjustment
Published: 2026-01-20
Preschool and general education teachers in Mongolia receive a 50% base pay increase starting January, with the Education Ministry publishing sample breakdowns for new hires and those with 20+ years’ tenure. For preschool teachers, a first-year teacher’s base salary rises from ₮1.559 million to ₮2.338 million; with locality and other allowances plus top performance ratings, total monthly pay can reach about ₮3.99 million. A veteran preschool teacher could see roughly ₮4.54 million. In general education schools, a new teacher’s maximum package increases from about ₮3.15 million to ₮4.14 million, while a 20-year teacher can receive up to about ₮4.73 million. The structured uplift links higher totals to performance evaluations and standard allowances, signaling continued emphasis on retention and merit incentives across the sector.
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MCA–Mongolia Seeks Two-Month Intern to Support Water Compact Archiving
Published: 2026-01-20
Millennium Challenge Account–Mongolia (MCA–Mongolia) announced a non-paid internship to support closure activities of the Mongolia Water Compact with the U.S. Millennium Challenge Corporation. The two-month role focuses exclusively on archiving and records management under the Administration Unit, including scanning and digitizing documents, handling duplicates and outdated files per policy, organizing physical records for transfer to the National Archiving Center, and providing related administrative support. Candidates should be third- or final-year bachelor’s students with strong English, advanced Microsoft Office skills, and experience using office machines. Interns are expected to work 20–40 hours per week and will receive a MNT 50,000 net daily meal and transportation allowance. Applications (cover letter and CV in English) are due by 17:00 ULAT on January 23, 2026, via [email protected], with inquiries at 7711-1710 during business hours.
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Health
First Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant for Leukemia Succeeds, Lowering Need for Overseas Care
Published: 2026-01-20
Mongolia has performed its first successful hematopoietic stem cell transplant for a child with blood cancer, marking a major advance in domestic oncology capacity. A multidisciplinary team from the National First Central Hospital led by People’s Doctor N. Oyundelger worked with the National Center for Maternal and Child Health and Turkey’s Medical Park, with support from TIKA. The 15-year-old patient, diagnosed at age five and relapsing multiple times, improved following an autologous transplant. Annual pediatric cancer diagnoses average around 100, with blood cancers comprising the majority; 150–200 blood disorder cases are reported annually, including 50–60 pediatric malignancies. The procedure, typically costing MNT 350–500 million abroad, is estimated at MNT 120–130 million domestically.
“Health insurance covers MNT 70 million for stem cell transplants, but the actual cost exceeds MNT 120 million. We will reassess and consider raising the reimbursement,” - Health Minister J. Chinburen (montsame.mn)
“This is the day we long awaited. After transplantation, all cell counts reached healthy levels as of last Friday’s tests,” - N. Oyundelger, head of the transplant team (montsame.mn)
The team plans two additional pediatric transplants with Turkish partners and is expanding local capabilities, including CD34 flow cytometry for stem cell counting and cryopreservation, to reduce outbound medical travel and improve survival outcomes.
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Measles Cases Edge Up as Health Authorities Urge Vaccination for 9-Month-Olds and 2-Year-Olds
Published: 2026-01-20
Mongolia confirmed 10 additional measles cases as of January 20, with 33 patients hospitalized—17 at the National Center for Communicable Diseases (NCCD) and 16 in provincial facilities—while 16 remain under home monitoring, according to local reports. Transmission remains concentrated among children: cases are highest in the 10–14 age group (5,180), followed by 0–4 (3,286), 5–9 (1,806), and 15–19 (1,746). Health authorities emphasize routine immunization as the most effective preventive measure. The NCCD advises parents of children aged nine months and two years to obtain the combined measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine at the nearest family or soum health centers. With flu season ongoing, officials recommend avoiding crowded places for young children and maintaining mask use and hand hygiene. The measles vaccine has been safely and effectively used globally since 1963.
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Health Ministry Sets 30% January Pay Rise for Medical Staff, Plans Staged Increases to MNT 3 Million by Year-End
Published: 2026-01-20
Mongolia’s Health Ministry and health insurance authorities confirmed a 30% increase to base salaries for doctors and health workers will be paid within January, with further staged hikes planned through December 2026. The government’s schedule targets raising base pay for staff under public service classifications (TÜEM, TüM, Tü) to MNT 3 million by year-end via six additional 9% increments from August to December. The move follows tripartite wage talks and Cabinet commitments, with technical coordination underway among the Ministry of Health, the Health Insurance Policy Council Secretariat, and the Health Insurance General Agency to ensure payments reach workers’ accounts this month.
“Starting from January, a 30% increase will be included in the salaries paid in February.” - Health Minister J. Chinzorig (eagle.mn)
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Rural Patients Face MNT 500,000–1.3 Million Costs for Ulaanbaatar Medical Visits
Published: 2026-01-20
Specialized healthcare remains concentrated in Ulaanbaatar, pushing rural residents to travel for diagnostics and treatment and incurring substantial indirect costs. A typical trip totals MNT 500,000–1.3 million per visit, including round-trip transport (MNT 120,000–240,000), 3–5 days of lodging (MNT 120,000–300,000), food (MNT 120,000–300,000), in-city transport, caregiver expenses, and medical fees. Delays in diagnosis can extend stays or require repeat visits, adding financial and psychological strain and increasing risks from postponed care. As a proposed mitigation, the NURA center offers consolidated, full-body screening completed within 2–3 hours in a single day, aiming to cut accommodation and related costs and reduce repeat travel. With Lunar New Year travel intensifying, such one-day diagnostics could ease urban service bottlenecks and support earlier detection and access for rural populations.
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Public Health Center Advises Safe Walking Practices During Icy Conditions
Published: 2026-01-20
Mongolia’s National Center for Public Health issued guidance to reduce injuries as icy sidewalks and poor visibility increase winter fall risks. The advisory lists common injuries—fractures, sprains, dislocations, concussions, and soft‑tissue damage—and urges practical prevention: wear winter footwear with non‑slip soles; slow your pace on snow and ice; avoid unverified shortcuts; keep hands out of pockets for balance; do not use phones or headphones while walking; and do not run when crossing roads. Drivers are reminded to avoid speeding and remain vigilant. Households are asked to clear snow and ice to maintain safe surroundings, while organizations should remove ice within a 50‑meter radius of their premises. If a fall occurs, avoid bracing directly with hands, wear gloves and padded outerwear to soften impact, and seek care at the nearest trauma clinic if injured.
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Umnugovi Launches 2024–2028 Health Program to Expand Access and Upgrade Facilities
Published: 2026-01-20
Umnugovi province has begun implementing a five-year health initiative to improve service access and public health practices, financed by the “Goviin Oyu” Development Support Fund. The Provincial Governor’s Office and Health Department will allocate MNT 5.5 billion from 2024–2028 to strengthen prevention, expand clinical services, and enhance staff skills. Early actions include equipping Gurvantes soum’s Health Center with 13 types of kitchen equipment worth over MNT 30 million to meet hygiene standards and support safe, consistent operations. The upgrade is expected to measurably improve patient nutrition and therapeutic food services—often a bottleneck in rural facilities—while signaling broader investment in infrastructure and human resources across the province. International stakeholders should note the program’s focus on capacity building and service quality, which could open avenues for training partnerships, equipment supply, and community health interventions as the plan scales across soums.
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