Mongolia News Summary for August 01, 2025
The following news articles are the opinions of their authors and publications. They are presented here as translations for informational purposes and do not necessarily represent the opinion of MongolBeat or its members.
Today's Stories
Politics
- Public Feedback on the 2026 State Budget Draft Begins
- The Opening of the Corruption District is an Indicator of the Anti-Corruption Agency's Performance!
Economy
- The US Dollar Exchange Rate Continues to Rise, Surpassing 3600 Tugriks
- V.I. Matvienko: Supply of Energy and Fuel Products from Russia to Mongolia Will Not Be Interrupted
- The Mongolian Mortgage Corporation and Japan Housing Finance Agency Sign Technical Cooperation Agreement
- Mortgage Loan Insurance Premiums Increase 2-10 Times
- Drivers Lose 136 Hours and Affect 100 Companies Due to Border Delays
- Distribution of VAT refund money to citizens' accounts has begun
- VAT Refunds Have Started Being Transferred to Citizens' Accounts
- Central: Meat Prices Have Increased
- J.Zolzayaa: The appraised value per square meter of the IT Park is 49,500 MNT. Meanwhile, “Urgoo II” has been stealing others’ opportunities by continuing to rent for 7,800-8,000 MNT
- 29 Billion Tugriks Spent to Support Employment in the Past Half Year
- The Small and Medium Enterprise Agency Announces the Following Preferential Loans
- People with Mortgage Loans Can Decide for Themselves Whether to Join Long-term Insurance Under New Regulation
Diplomacy
- A Working Group Has Been Re-established to Prepare for the “Mongolia-China Expo”
- Border Checkpoints' August Working Schedule
- D. Amarbayasgalan: We Strive to Expand Relations and Cooperation with the Swiss Confederation
- Political Dialogue with Singapore to be Boosted, Cooperation to be Expanded
- D.AMARBAYASGALAN: We Aspire to Expand Mongolia-Switzerland Cooperation in Many Sectors
- Expanding Relations and Cooperation with Finland
- Nukaga Fukushiro: A New Chapter in Parliamentary Cooperation Between the Two Countries
Infrastructure
- Unauthorized Buildings at Selbe City Project Site Are Being Demolished
- Ts. Torkhüü: The New Wastewater Treatment Plant Will Be Fully Commissioned in October
- Ts.Torkhuu: We will start using the new wastewater treatment plant from October this year
- Open Tender Announced for Emeelt Eco-Industrial Park Project’s Thermal Power Plant and Wastewater Treatment Facility
- 5,000 households in five khoroos of Chingeltei and Bayangol districts to be insulated and switched to gas heating
- Yu Won-shik: Focusing on Restoring Normalcy to Mongolia's 'Project to Build Thermal Power Plants in 10 Provincial Centers'
- MIAT Adds Another Aircraft for Domestic Flights
- Land Clearance Underway in Preparation for Tuul Expressway Construction
- 115 Plots of Land in Four City Districts Affected by Tuul Expressway Construction
- Experts in Metro and Railways to be Trained Through Joint Program
- Contractor for Metro Construction to be Selected Next Month
Environment
- This Winter, Briquettes Made from Semi-Coke or Brown Coal Will Be Used as Fuel
- S. Tumurbat: As the Briquetted Fuel Does Not Meet Standards, We Recommended to Change the Raw Materials
Innovation
- Minister of Digital Development and Communications E. Batshugar meets with World Bank’s Resident Representative in Mongolia Taehyun Lee
- The 'AI Academy Asia' Artificial Intelligence Training App Officially Launched
- Warning About Possible Online Fraud Mimicking GoGo.mn Website
Politics
Public Feedback on the 2026 State Budget Draft Begins
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: gogo.mn
In accordance with Article 28¹ of the Law on State Budget of Mongolia, the process of gathering public, non-governmental organizations, professional associations, private sector, and citizen representatives' opinions on the drafting of the 2026 state budget has begun.
The Ministry of Culture, Sports, Tourism, and Youth has issued an open call to encourage public input and participation in the initiatives and projects that will be implemented within the framework of the budget's investment funds.
The Opening of the Corruption District is an Indicator of the Anti-Corruption Agency's Performance!
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: news.mn
Around 600 households have placed preliminary orders for apartments in the "Aqua Garden" complex, commonly known by the public as the corruption district. Even though relevant authorities have repeatedly announced that property certificates will not be issued for "Aqua Garden," the fact that they are still taking preorders is essentially a scam. The leaders of the MPP (Mongolian People's Party) have promised in front of cameras to demolish the corruption district, but it has become clear that they have no intention to take any real action behind the scenes. In other words, promising to demolish the buildings that they themselves approved was just a show. We summarize who and when promised to demolish the corruption district.
Former Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene, former city mayor D. Sumiyabazar, and current city governor Kh. Nyambaatar have all taken turns visiting the corruption district, each time making political statements that it would be demolished "soon". It is now clear that such actions were mere propaganda to mislead the public. Let's review what statements have been made about this district.
When he was Prime Minister during the 2023 floods, L. Oyun-Erdene made the following promise: “Officials who authorized land allocation, blocked dams, canals, and constructed buildings at Aqua Garden will be urgently handed over to the Anti-Corruption Agency (ATG) and relevant law enforcement bodies for investigation. If necessary, the buildings will be demolished. We will also propose legislation to prevent regional, city, and local officials from allocating lands not included in the master plan. The Land Relations, Geodesy, and Cartography Department of the Ministry of Construction and Urban Development will temporarily operate under the Prime Minister.”
Former city governor D. Sumiyabazar issued a decree to forcibly demolish two blocks of the "Aqua Garden" in August 2023. However, it was later revealed with proof that he himself had approved the land allocation for these buildings.
City governor Kh. Nyambaatar stated that if the court issues a decision, they are ready to demolish the building at any time. But people of the city have themselves witnessed that his words were empty.
There are many such illegally constructed buildings obtained through bribery in the city. Apartments have been built on land without permits or on spaces intended for other purposes, as in the case of construction projects in the 26th subdistrict of Khan-Uul District. For example, two 16-storey apartment blocks have been illegally constructed in an overloaded area, despite objections from the local subdistrict leader, residents, and the City Council due to the already high population density in the area.
As for the corruption district, in 2008, when first obtaining a land allocation permit, they made it seem as if they would build a “Water Park,” but later it turned into a 24-storey apartment building. On the surface, the public was misled, while in reality, those fighting corruption made compromises with the corrupt. One can truly question whether these supposed anti-corruption officials ever really wanted to fight corruption. The fact that powerful officials like L. Oyun-Erdene and Kh. Nyambaatar are unable to demolish such buildings indicates that corruption and conflicts of interest continue to prevail.
Economy
The US Dollar Exchange Rate Continues to Rise, Surpassing 3600 Tugriks
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: unuudur.mn
The tugrik continues to depreciate against the US dollar. According to the official rate published by the Bank of Mongolia, the greenback was equivalent to 3,587 tugriks yesterday. However, at the "Naiman Sharga" currency exchange market, traders were buying US dollars for 3,600-3,602 tugriks and selling at 3,610 tugriks. At the end of last year, the US dollar exchange rate was 3,400 tugriks. Since then, it has continuously strengthened and has now exceeded 3,600 tugriks. The difference between the official and unofficial (black market) rates has reached 15-23 tugriks.
Factors such as a trade deficit, decreases in investment, loans and aid flows, and declining foreign currency reserves tend to cause the exchange rate to rise. An economist commented, "The exchange rate is determined by the balance of supply and demand. The recent increase in dollar deposits may have increased the demand for foreign currency. Additionally, formal and informal expectations regarding foreign currency, budget amendments, and approval of a deficit budget are all impacting the flow of foreign currency. Besides this, purchases of goods and products as part of winter preparations generally increase, so it is possible that short-term foreign currency demand has risen."
According to officials at the Bank of Mongolia, "The pressure for the tugrik to depreciate due to the balance of payments was relatively high in the first quarter of 2025. However, this pressure is expected to decrease going forward. The Bank of Mongolia will intervene in the market as needed to reduce sudden fluctuations caused by supply-demand imbalances. In the future, the pressure on the tugrik is expected to ease, depending on a reduction of the balance of payments deficit, a weakening of the US dollar on international markets, and relatively increased returns in tugrik."
However, experts say the continued rise of the US dollar exchange rate requires attention. In the coming months, how the central bank flexibly and actively responds to market expectations and changes in external conditions will be crucial to maintaining the stability of the exchange rate.
V.I. Matvienko: Supply of Energy and Fuel Products from Russia to Mongolia Will Not Be Interrupted
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: ikon.mn
Chairman of the State Great Khural of Mongolia D. Amarbaysgalan held an official meeting with Ms. V.I. Matvienko, Chairwoman of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, during the 6th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament in Geneva. At the beginning of the meeting, Chairwoman V.I. Matvienko discussed further developing cooperation with Mongolia, which shares a traditional and friendly comprehensive strategic partnership, and exchanged views on areas including trade, economy, and education.
Notably, she mentioned that the Russian Government has made amendments to the resolution "On Prohibiting the Export of Automobile Gasoline from Russia." According to these amendments, the export of automotive gasoline will be completely banned for one month starting August 1, 2025; however, it was emphasized that Mongolia is exempt from this ban. Furthermore, she stated that the supply of energy and fuel products exported to Mongolia will continue without interruption in the future.
Chairman D. Amarbaysgalan expressed his satisfaction with the active cooperation between the legislative bodies of the two countries, which plays an important role in bilateral relations, and noted that the State Great Khural is working to improve and establish a legal environment for the broad, multi-faceted relations between the two societies. He also expressed his desire to further develop inter-parliamentary cooperation between the legislative bodies of the two countries. (Reported by the Press Department of the State Great Khural)
Note: Media organizations (TV, radio, social media, or websites) are prohibited from fully or partially using this information in any form without consent, and if consent is granted, the source (ikon.mn) must be cited.
The Mongolian Mortgage Corporation and Japan Housing Finance Agency Sign Technical Cooperation Agreement
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: itoim.mn
The Mongolian Mortgage Corporation (MIK) and the Japan Housing Finance Agency (JHF) have signed a technical cooperation agreement aimed at increasing sustainable and green housing finance and developing a bond market targeted at specific sectors in Mongolia.
The agreement will be implemented from August 1, 2025, to January 30, 2026, and marks the next significant step in the collaboration that began with a memorandum of understanding signed between the two organizations in 2019.
Within the framework of this agreement, the parties have mutually agreed to cooperate in the following areas: developing sustainable development policies, preparing to issue bonds targeted at specific markets, strengthening internal capabilities, drafting transitional plans aligned with international standards, and implementing training programs in the fields of sustainable finance, green housing, reporting standards, and digital transformation.
The cooperation outlined in the agreement is being carried out within the framework of regional cooperation under the Asian Secondary Mortgage Market Association (ASMMA), of which both organizations are members.
Yasushi Takayama, President and Board Member of the Japan Housing Finance Agency, remarked:
"The Government of Japan's housing finance agency has successfully implemented energy-efficient and socially oriented housing loan programs. We will focus on establishing a sustainable housing finance system in Mongolia and act as a bridge between the two governments to expand policy and financial cooperation. While localizing new technologies for sustainable housing may initially be challenging, I am confident that a strong, long-term partnership based on friendship will lead to success."
B. Gantulga, CEO of the Mongolian Mortgage Corporation, added:
"The cooperation agreement signed today is of historical significance and will play a crucial role in increasing green building and green finance in our country, thereby raising the level of sustainable development. Through this collaboration, green building standards will be introduced to our construction sector, improving quality and accessibility, and opening opportunities for green housing finance and green securities in domestic banks and the financial sector. I am confident that the partnership between MIK and JHF will continue to grow, and many successful projects based on mutual trust will flourish between our two countries."
The agreement was signed and validated by B. Gantulga, CEO of the Mongolian Mortgage Corporation, and Yasushi Takayama, President and Board Member of the Japan Housing Finance Agency.
Mortgage Loan Insurance Premiums Increase 2-10 Times
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: gogo.mn
The Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs, L. Munkhbaatar, sent an official letter to the Financial Regulatory Commission, demanding a legally grounded explanation regarding the “Mortgage Insurance Package Rules.”
This letter was sent following complaints received from lawyer O. Batkhuu and professional organizations. It raises issues about some violations of law and infringement of authority in the regulation of the insurance sector.
For example, the "Insurance Package Rules" specify that a lawyer cannot be an insurance broker, which, it is believed, may contradict the Constitution and the laws defining the legal status of lawyers.
The Minister has pointed out the need to review the Commission's rules within the scope of relevant laws, to provide a substantiated explanation, and, if necessary, to amend the regulations.
Drivers Lose 136 Hours and Affect 100 Companies Due to Border Delays
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: gogo.mn
Officials report that transportation delays, red tape, and uncoordinated operations at Mongolia's border checkpoints are stagnating the country's economic activity.
On average, drivers crossing the border must stop six times and lose 136 hours for a single crossing. It was noted that each driver's delay directly affects and causes losses to over 100 companies and enterprises.
To resolve this situation, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Development N. Uchral has instructed the relevant authorities to take concrete measures and solve the issue by September 31, 2025.
Additionally, the Office for Governmental Oversight is tasked with conducting inspections at the border, preparing a report, and presenting the outcomes to the government.
Distribution of VAT refund money to citizens' accounts has begun
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: gogo.mn
The refund for the Value Added Tax (VAT) for the second quarter of 2025 has started being transferred to citizens' accounts from today, totaling 83.4 billion MNT for 1.29 million people.
VAT refunds are scheduled as follows:
- Refund for the first quarter is given in April;
- Refund for the second quarter is given in July;
- Refund for the third quarter is given in October;
- Refund for the fourth quarter is given in January of the following year.
VAT Refunds Have Started Being Transferred to Citizens' Accounts
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: news.mn
According to the law on Value Added Tax (VAT), the tax authority has announced that the second quarter VAT refunds for 2025 have begun to be transferred. This time, a total of 83.1 billion MNT is being transferred to 1.3 million citizens.
In addition, 27,684 citizens have paid a total of 315.8 million MNT in taxes from their refunds.
Central: Meat Prices Have Increased
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: montsame.mn
According to the Statistics Office of Tuv Province, as of the beginning of this month, the price of meat has increased by 1,000 tugriks and diesel fuel by 33.4 tugriks compared to today's prices for essential consumer goods.
As of July 7, the average price per kilogram was 14,000 tugriks for mutton, 17,000 tugriks for beef, and 12,000 tugriks for goat meat. Meanwhile, the price per kilogram was 4,000 tugriks for loose white rice, 4,400 tugriks for loose sugar, 2,400 tugriks on average for first-grade flour, 2,500 tugriks per liter for liquid milk, 2,590 tugriks for AI-92 gasoline, and 2,893 tugriks for diesel fuel. Other essential consumer goods, apart from meat and diesel fuel, have remained stable in price.
J.Zolzayaa: The appraised value per square meter of the IT Park is 49,500 MNT. Meanwhile, “Urgoo II” has been stealing others’ opportunities by continuing to rent for 7,800-8,000 MNT
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: itoim.mn
The National Information Technology Park (NITP) is a state-owned enterprise. The "Urgoo-2" cinema theater has been operating in the northern wing of this park since 2011. The company's contract ended on December 31, 2022, but they have not vacated the premises and have been engaged in legal disputes.
Over the course of a year, the hearing has been postponed nine times, but both the primary and appellate courts have ruled that the National Information Technology Park has the right to reclaim its premises. However, until today, "New Tour Safaris" LLC has not complied with the court’s decision and continues its operations. Additionally, it has started using the premises for other purposes, including opening a 24-hour E-sports gaming center on the second floor and contracting with a Chinese fast food restaurant called “Ajin Grilled Meat” with foreign investment on the first floor. J. Zolzayaa, Director of the NITP, informed the public about the situation via her social media page. Here is more detail from her about the current situation.
Director of the National Information Technology Park, J. Zolzayaa: Both the primary and appellate courts ruled that since the contract expired on December 31, 2022, the premises must be forcibly vacated. The process is currently at the enforcement stage. However, Urgoo II Cinema, disregarding the court’s decision, has opened an E-sports center and, starting last week, a Chinese grilled meat restaurant in the IT Park. They didn’t inform their new tenants that the premises were under dispute. Apparently, the Chinese tenant was not aware of the ongoing legal case in Mongolia. This is disrespectful towards the state property, the IT Park, and the information technology sector, as they are renting out the premises as if it were their own property, without notifying us. This seems to be a tactic to hang on using convoluted means in the hope of buying more time. There are only a few days left to appeal to the Supreme Court. Since both the primary and appellate court rulings were favorable, our lawyer tells us that unless the Supreme Court delays the process, the decision will not change. We have many plans for this space. Instead of engaging in endless lawsuits with just one company, we want to support the IT companies operating here. Mongolia has over 400 IT companies that we want to help export technology to Central Asia, Japan, and America. We’re working to develop the sector and implement the concept of a "virtual zone" in Mongolia. After vacating Urgoo Cinema, we have already planned to increase the number of AI labs, data centers, and incubators there.
The issue between Urgoo II and the IT Park has faced opposition from previous directors as well. When I was appointed director in 2023, I found out about such unfair practices. That's why, for the first time, I spoke out publicly. Young people with new ideas renting spaces for startups pay 38,500 MNT per square meter, while Urgoo II rents about 2,500 square meters for only 16 million MNT total. In other words, they rent about a third of the IT Park for 16 million MNT, while young people pay 2-3 million MNT for just 40-50 square meters. Why should there be such unfairness? My investigation found that previous managements committed many unfair and illegal deeds, which is why I publicly raised the issue and spoke out boldly.
Since the decision won’t change, there is no need to appeal to the Supreme Court; just vacate and give the sector a chance. Please support the IT sector for once. Also, one company has benefited for 12 years. Normally, a company can be in the IT Park for a maximum of two years.
J. Zolzayaa
The IT Park has a total area of 7,600 square meters, of which about a third, or 2,600 square meters, is occupied. On the other side, there are no non-IT companies. In contrast, more than 30 tech sector companies have created over 500 jobs there. Beyond that, there are more than 400 tech companies wishing to join the IT Park. They want to enjoy equal opportunities and support to grow and enter the market, but such opportunities are not available. The lost opportunity in this sector is a loss that cannot be evaluated in terms of money. Starting today, our sector’s NGOs will unite to raise their voices. Twenty-two specialized NGOs have announced they will join forces. Therefore, we will continue to push firmly.
Since the court decision won’t change, we urge the major company to leave without appealing to the Supreme Court so that the sector can have a chance. Support the information technology sector for once. Also, a company has been here for 12 years. In fact, a company can only stay in the IT Park for a maximum of two years. But 12 years have passed and everyone knows how many departments they've established and how much profit they've made. I want to ask the Urgoo Cinema staff: let's stop with the legal disputes and respect each other by complying with the court’s decision and vacate the premises.
Our IT Park's per square meter appraisal for 2025 is 49,500 MNT. However, Urgoo Cinema is still renting at the rate from their contract expired on December 31, 2022. Their average rent per square meter is between 7,700 and 8,000 MNT. This enormous price difference allows a large, established company to rent at a much cheaper rate than startups just beginning operations, which is not fair.
29 Billion Tugriks Spent to Support Employment in the Past Half Year
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: gogo.mn
The National Council on Employment met today.
During the meeting, they discussed and approved additional changes to the 2025 budget allocation for the Employment Support Fund, the "Transition to Employment through Apprenticeship" program, and the Pilot Business Incubation Program.
As of the first half of 2025, employment support activities have included 59,045 citizens, preserved 15,003 jobs, and spent 29.9 billion tugriks.
Within the scope of this activity, it was decided to increase the budget to meet the growing demand for financial support.
Also, the "Transition to Employment through Apprenticeship" pilot project is aimed at providing employment services tailored to the needs of target group citizens, facilitating their transition to long-term, stable employment.
The "Business Incubation Pilot Program" provides incubation services such as professional advice, skill training for running a business, partnership opportunities, and sales support to individuals wishing to start their own business or become self-employed. This is intended to create a favorable environment for entrepreneurship, generate new jobs, and help stabilize them.
At the end of the meeting, the Minister of Family, Labor, and Social Protection, and Chair of the National Council on Employment, T. Aubakir, stated that the government plans to make the coming year a year of focus on education and human development. The ministry and the National Employment Council will also place greater emphasis on human development in their projects and programs.
Source: Ministry of Family, Labor, and Social Protection
The Small and Medium Enterprise Agency Announces the Following Preferential Loans
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: gogo.mn
The Small and Medium Enterprise Agency has re-announced the acceptance of project proposals for preferential loans aimed at supporting food supply, national production, and agricultural productivity. These loans are targeted at specific areas such as model cooperatives, warehouse facilities, and the manufacture of morin khuur (horsehead fiddle).
Loan to support model agricultural cooperatives:
- Khankhal soum, Bulgan province – Cooperative for breeding meat-type cattle
- Orkhon soum, Darkhan-Uul province – Cooperative for cultivating and processing vegetables
- Orkhon soum, Selenge province – Cooperative for early-season vegetable cultivation and processing
Loan for establishing warehouse facilities in Selenge aimag:
- Loan for small and medium-sized businesses in Mandal soum to build warehouses for potatoes and vegetables
Loan for morin khuur manufacturers:
- Within the framework of Presidential Decree and Government Resolution, a preferential loan is being offered to support the production of traditional Mongolian musical instruments.
Applications will be accepted only online at www.sme.gov.mn.
Period: 2025.07.28–2025.08.27
For information and consultation: 77485555-1
People with Mortgage Loans Can Decide for Themselves Whether to Join Long-term Insurance Under New Regulation
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: ikon.mn
The Financial Regulatory Commission (FRC) has issued a resolution to annul the "Mortgage Insurance Operations Regulation" approved in 2018, effective from tomorrow. Thus, starting from August 1, a new regulation related to mortgage insurance will come into effect.
Regarding this new regulation, J. Munkh-Orgil, Head of the Legal Department of the FRC, explained in an interview: “According to the insurance regulation approved in 2018, we stipulated the types of protection available to citizens who take out mortgage loans. Most people who take out such loans are insured mainly to protect against accidental death or loss of working ability. There are two main types of insurance under the regulation. The first is the aforementioned accidental insurance, and the other is 'Life Insurance.' If this insurance is chosen, the insurance company repays the outstanding loan regardless of the cause of death or if the borrower loses more than 70% of their ability to work.
As the FRC, our function is to protect the interests of the insured. As part of this function, we regularly monitor and assess whether the current environment sufficiently protects the rights of the insured. Our monitoring indicated that most mortgage borrowers choose accidental insurance, but accidents only account for 18% of all cases. In other words, out of every ten deaths, eight are due to general illness or other causes, while two are from accidents.
However, since most people choose accidental insurance, they cannot claim compensation if they die from other causes. To ensure full protection of the insured’s rights, the FRC has approved a new insurance regulation effective November 2024. When a mortgage-insured borrower faces life or health risks, the insurance company will repay the loan to shield the borrower and their family from financial hardship. Life insurance organizations will implement this scheme, which aligns with international standards. Preparation was required to implement this regulation, hence the delay until August 1.
Our study showed that since 2013, 254 people with mortgages have died. Most had chosen accidental insurance, so 91% did not receive payouts for deaths due to ordinary illness. According to banking data, around 193,000 people currently have mortgage loans, of which 70,000 have loans at 6-8% interest, while 50,000 have other bank-provided sources. By age, 85% are between 25 and 35. Annual mortality in this age group is about 2,500 people. Of these, approximately 470 die from accidents. The rest, about 2,000, would not have been protected by insurance if they had mortgages.
With mortgage loans, the issue is not just about the borrower but also the household. If the borrower dies, the remaining family members face the issue of how to pay the loan. Failure to do so may even lead to losing their home. Therefore, the new regulation aims to mitigate such risks.
Borrowers with insurance contracts established before August 1, 2025, are not required to join the new scheme or update their contract. Participation in this insurance is voluntary. Thus, if their insurance term is not over, they can decide to continue or switch to new insurance. Accidental insurance contracts are usually short-term and do not typically include life insurance, so most are signed for one or two years. The regulatory body will not intervene in the relationship between insurers and insured in such cases.
Since it is voluntary insurance, people obtaining mortgages after August 1 must decide for themselves whether to obtain long-term insurance. Mongolia’s insurance system includes both general and long-term insurance companies. Long-term insurers offer diverse products, including health, life, and private pensions. As mortgages are usually for 20-30 years, long-term insurance is more suitable. Previously, there was only one such insurer in Mongolia, making regulation difficult. Now, two companies offer long-term insurance, and a third is applying.
Long-term insurance provides coverage for the entire term of a mortgage loan. Accidental insurance is often short-term, and issues arise when the term expires or borrowers are unaware their insurance has ended. This was J. Munkh-Orgil’s explanation.
Insurers are also required to regularly inform borrowers about the terms, features, and importance of these insurance products and services.
To clarify issues that have caused confusion among the public regarding the implementation of the amended mortgage insurance regulation from August 1, the FRC has ordered commercial banks providing long-term insurance and insurance brokerage services to: - Ensure borrowers and insurers can freely choose the causes and conditions of life and health insurance coverage; - Guarantee that those who signed contracts before August 1, 2025, do not face deteriorated terms (increased premiums or worse conditions) and allow them to choose products accordingly; - Notify policyholders that contracts signed before August 1, 2025, remain valid until their term ends; - Regularly familiarize borrowers and insured with the features and importance of these products and services.
According to the updated mortgage insurance regulation, borrowers and insured will have the freedom to choose suitable insurance products to protect against possible risks.
Note: Media organizations (TV, radio, social or web pages) are prohibited from using this information in whole or in part in any form, except with permission and by citing the source (ikon.mn).
Diplomacy
A Working Group Has Been Re-established to Prepare for the “Mongolia-China Expo”
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: unuudur.mn
At yesterday's Cabinet meeting, as part of the implementation of the joint declaration between Mongolia and the People's Republic of China to develop a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, several decisions were made. During the meeting, the composition of the Working Group responsible for preparing, organizing, leading, and coordinating the cooperation between government and private sector organizations for the "Mongolia-China Expo" was renewed. This event is crucial in raising the trade and economic relations of the two countries to a new level. It also serves as a real mechanism to achieve the goal of increasing the total trade volume between the two sides to 20 billion USD in the near future.
The fifth "Mongolia-China Expo" will be held in Hohhot, in China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, from the 25th to the 30th of next month. On the Mongolian side, the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry is in charge of the preparation for the Expo. The event will be organized around four main areas: • Economic and trade forum • Business negotiations • Humanitarian exchanges • Goods and product exhibition and fair.
Apart from Mongolia, enterprises from five other countries including Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, as well as more than 3,000 entities from various provinces and regions of China, will participate in the expo. Within the framework of the event, Mongolia will operate a special pavilion titled "Exhibition of Mongolian Image," showcasing the nation's unique cultural heritage and traditions, as well as products and services from over 500 Mongolian businesses.
Border Checkpoints' August Working Schedule
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: gogo.mn
The General Authority for Border Protection has released the working hours schedule for border checkpoints in August.
In August, if the Mongolia-China border checkpoint does not operate, other auto, air, and railway checkpoints will continue to function normally according to their schedules.
D. Amarbayasgalan: We Strive to Expand Relations and Cooperation with the Swiss Confederation
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: montsame.mn
Speaker of the State Great Khural (Parliament) of Mongolia, D. Amarbayasgalan, held an official meeting with Maya Riniker, President of the National Council of the Swiss Confederation, on the 29th of this month, according to the Press and Media Department of the State Great Khural.
At the beginning of the meeting, Speaker D. Amarbayasgalan noted that Switzerland is Mongolia’s third neighbor and a trusted partner in Europe, and emphasized Mongolia's aspiration to expand relations and cooperation between the two countries in various social and economic sectors. He also expressed gratitude for the effective projects jointly implemented with the Swiss Confederation to strengthen democracy, rule of law, and the parliamentary system in Mongolia. Among these are collaborations on the legislative activities of the Swiss Parliament, including the organization of public referendums and implementing the principles of direct democracy.
Furthermore, D. Amarbayasgalan stated that the State Great Khural will support expanding relations between legislative bodies and their Secretariats and fostering practical cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
Maya Riniker, President of the National Council of the Swiss Confederation, expressed her pleasure that despite the geographical distance, the two countries share common values of peace and multifaceted cooperation, and that their relations and cooperation continue to strengthen. She highlighted that one example of the successful cooperation between the legislative bodies and their Secretariats is the upcoming visit this autumn of a Swiss National Council delegation to Mongolia to exchange best practices in parliamentary oversight.
Additionally, Riniker noted that although the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation has ceased its operations in Mongolia, the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) continues to fund previously launched projects and programs. She therefore expressed hope for continued support from the State Great Khural of Mongolia.
Both parties also discussed the possibility of establishing a group in the Swiss Parliament dedicated to relations with Mongolia.
Political Dialogue with Singapore to be Boosted, Cooperation to be Expanded
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: montsame.mn
Chairman of the State Great Khural of Mongolia D. Amarbayasgalan held an official meeting with Mr. Seah Kian Peng, Speaker of the Parliament of the Republic of Singapore, during the 6th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament, Montsame News Agency reports.
Chairman Amarbayasgalan expressed his commitment to intensifying political dialogue at all levels with Singapore and expanding the scope of cooperation, deepening collaboration at both regional and international platforms. He highlighted Mongolia's intention, based on Singapore's experience and cooperation, to establish an integrated national savings fund suited to Mongolia's specific needs and underlined ongoing effective cooperation in public housing development. He also noted Mongolia’s aspiration to actively participate in the work of ASEAN and its associated bodies, expressing his confidence that Singapore would support Mongolia in becoming a member of the East Asia Summit.
Speaker Seah Kian Peng of Singapore, in turn, thanked Chairman Amarbayasgalan for his remarks at the 6th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament on the topic of “A World in Crisis: Parliamentary Cooperation and Multilateralism to Promote Peace and Justice for All.” He emphasized the importance of inter-parliamentary cooperation in strengthening the bilateral relationship and affirmed Singapore’s openness to sharing experience and cooperating in capacity building of human resources and other areas of mutual interest.
It is also worth noting that this year marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the Republic of Singapore.
D.AMARBAYASGALAN: We Aspire to Expand Mongolia-Switzerland Cooperation in Many Sectors
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: unuudur.mn
Speaker of the State Great Khural (Parliament) D. Amarbaysgalan, along with members of parliament J. Bat-Erdene, Ts. Sandag-Ochir, A. Ariunzaya, Kh. Baasanjargal, and G. Ganbaatar, are participating in the 6th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament, which began on the 29th of this month in Geneva, Switzerland. The 6th conference aims to strengthen multilateral cooperation, encourage parliaments and their members to act responsibly in international relations, support democracy, promote diplomatic efforts for peace and understanding, bring the voice of citizens to the United Nations, and support the implementation of international commitments at the national level.
At the general debate, which is attended by 84 speakers and 18 deputy speakers from the parliaments of 180 member countries of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, Speaker D. Amarbaysgalan will deliver a speech on the topic "A World in Crisis: Parliamentary Cooperation and Multilateralism for Peace and Justice for All." He also held an official meeting with Maya Riniker, Speaker of the National Council of the Swiss Confederation. During the meeting, both sides emphasized their aspiration to expand bilateral relations and cooperation into various social and economic sectors. In particular, they noted the full potential for expanding relations between legislative bodies and their secretariats, as well as launching cooperation in mutually interested fields.
Maya Riniker, Speaker of the National Council of the Swiss Confederation, expressed her delight that, although the two countries are geographically distant, they share common values of peace and multilateral cooperation, and their relationship continues to strengthen. She also highlighted that in the coming autumn, a delegation from the Swiss National Council will visit Mongolia to exchange best practices in parliamentary oversight. Additionally, the parties discussed the possibility of establishing a group within the Swiss Parliament for relations with Mongolia.
Expanding Relations and Cooperation with Finland
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: montsame.mn
In connection with the official visit of Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg to the Republic of Finland, President Alexander Stubb of Finland received her today. During the meeting, the two sides remarked that the traditional friendly relations and cooperation between Mongolia and Finland are being steadily developed, based on shared values such as democracy and human rights. They also emphasized that high-level reciprocal visits and dialogues play an important role in deepening bilateral relations and cooperation. It was mentioned that President Alexander Stubb of Finland has an invitation to visit Mongolia.
Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg highlighted that Mongolia attaches great importance to expanding relations and cooperation with Finland within the framework of its "third neighbor" policy, and expressed the intention to conduct effective cooperation in line with the long-term development policies and common goals of the two countries, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Nukaga Fukushiro: A New Chapter in Parliamentary Cooperation Between the Two Countries
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: montsame.mn
The Speaker of the State Great Khural of Mongolia, D. Amarbayasgalan, held an official meeting with Nukaga Fukushiro, Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Japanese Parliament, according to the Public Relations Office of the State Great Khural. At the beginning of the meeting held on the 29th of this month, Speaker D. Amarbayasgalan emphasized that the State Great Khural attaches great importance to deepening the friendly relations and cooperation with Japan, a key "third neighbor" and a close special strategic partner with whom Mongolia shares common democratic values. He expressed his deep gratitude for the steadfast support provided by the Government and people of Japan in strengthening democracy and supporting the stable socio-economic development in Mongolia.
Additionally, he introduced the strategic plan and the "Three Advancements" policy of legal and legislative reform pursued by the newly constituted parliament. In 2026, Mongolia will host the 17th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification, and the State Great Khural is working to propose the establishment of an advisory body on issues of land degradation and desertification under the Permanent Committee on Sustainable Development of the Inter-Parliamentary Union. Speaker D. Amarbayasgalan expressed his belief that the Japanese parliament would actively support this initiative.
Nukaga Fukushiro, Speaker of the House of Representatives of Japan, noted that the visit of His Majesty Emperor Naruhito of Japan to Mongolia is further developing the cooperation and close friendship between the two countries and their peoples. He highlighted that Mongolia and Japan share mutual interests in the fields of economy, diplomacy, and security, and during this meeting, a new chapter in the parliamentary cooperation between the two countries was being opened.
Infrastructure
Unauthorized Buildings at Selbe City Project Site Are Being Demolished
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: gogo.mn
Unauthorized buildings affected by the land clearance of the Selbe City project are being forcibly demolished. Materials such as metal and stone from the demolished buildings are being separated and sorted for recycling.
In this context, the first deputy mayor of the capital, T. Davaadalai, and relevant officials worked in the 18th sub-district of Chingeltei district, near the "7 Buudal" area.
First Deputy Mayor of the capital, T. Davaadalai, said, "Land clearance work under the Selbe 20-Minute City Project is ongoing in Chingeltei and Sukhbaatar districts.
As part of this operation, structures that do not meet standards and lack permits near the '7 Buudal' area are being demolished in agreement with the respective owners within the framework of the law. This operation is being organized in cooperation with the 'Construction Waste Recycling Factory', where construction materials like metal and stone from the buildings are being sorted, recycled, and reused."
Ts. Bold, Director of the Construction Waste Recycling Factory, stated, "Our plant has been built with investment from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and has recently started operation. With a total of about 27 specialized machines and mechanisms, we are now beginning activities such as demolition of buildings, transportation of waste, and recycling.
The total area of the building being demolished today is 1,775 square meters. From this, we will extract 1,864 tons of construction waste and transport it to the plant in Biokombinat. The demolition is expected to be completed within 7-10 days."
N. Munkhbayar, head of the Land Clearance Department at the city's Land Administration Office, said, "The building being demolished today was listed as unauthorized construction in 2023 by a state inspector's report, and by a decree of the mayor issued on June 19, 2025, an order was given for its forced demolition.
Since it is affected by the land clearance for the Selbe 20-Minute City Project, it is now being demolished. For the entire Selbe City project, 2,206 citizens and legal entities have been affected over 158 hectares. As of today, there remain only 195 plots to clear, meaning over 91% of the total agreements have been fulfilled, and those plots have been vacated.
For the remaining plots, delays are due to issues such as document discrepancies and ownership problems."
Source: Ulaanbaatar City Administration, Press and Public Relations Department
Ts. Torkhüü: The New Wastewater Treatment Plant Will Be Fully Commissioned in October
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: gogo.mn
Ts. Torkhüü, General Manager of Ulaanbaatar city and Head of the Mayor’s Office, has provided an update.
He stated that by October 2025, the operation of the old treatment plant will be fully stopped and the new central wastewater treatment plant will be put into use. Construction of the new central treatment facility began in 2020 but was delayed by two years due to the Covid situation. If the pandemic had not intervened, it would have been possible to commission the facility within just three years.
The old facility, built in 1964 for a city of 500,000 to 800,000 people, has long been insufficient for the capital, which now has a population of 1.5 million. This is why the construction of a new plant began in 2020. The first test water was received during this year’s Naadam festivities, and the final commissioning stage is now underway.
The new treatment plant will have the capacity to process 250,000 m³ of domestic and pre-treated industrial wastewater per day to meet the MNS:4943-2015 standard.
The facility operates using two main technologies: sewage treatment and sludge processing.
Once the new plant is operational, the odor problem that has been encountered until now will be significantly reduced. The living conditions for citizens of the capital will improve, providing a healthier and safer environment. As time is as valuable as gold in every moment, we are working to complete the project on schedule.
We have continuously been training operating personnel since 2023. In 2024 alone, a total of 87 training sessions, both domestic and international, have been organized.
The plant will be fully operational in October 2025. After a full year of technical trials and stabilization, it will be handed over to the State Commission. Thus, before this winter, the new treatment plant is about to become a working reality, he said.
Ts.Torkhuu: We will start using the new wastewater treatment plant from October this year
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: ikon.mn
Ts.Torkhuu, Head of the Water and Sewerage Authority (WSA), wrote on his social media page that the new central wastewater treatment plant will be operational in two months. Specifically, he stated, "In October 2025, we will completely stop the operation of the old treatment plant and begin using the new one. Last night, we received some of the equipment for the new central wastewater treatment plant. We started the project to build a new central wastewater treatment plant in Ulaanbaatar in 2020, and during the National Naadam holidays, we tested the first water intake. In October 2025, the facility will be fully operational, and we will stop the old treatment plant. After operating and fine-tuning the new plant for a full year, we will hand it over to the State Commission. Since 2023, we have been continuously training the staff and sending them to cities in China for training. In 2024 alone, we organized 87 hours of external and internal training. The capacity of the project's treatment plant is to process 250,000 cubic meters of domestic and pre-treated industrial wastewater per day, bringing it to Mongolia's MNS:4943-2015 standard levels and aiming to reduce environmental impact. The treatment plant will operate using two main technologies: wastewater purification and sludge processing," he wrote.
Notice: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social and Web pages) are prohibited from fully or partially reusing our information in any form. It may only be used with explicit agreement and by citing the source (ikon.mn).
Open Tender Announced for Emeelt Eco-Industrial Park Project’s Thermal Power Plant and Wastewater Treatment Facility
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: montsame.mn
The Office of the Governor of the Capital City has announced plans to develop the Emeelt Eco-Industrial Park project across 539 hectares in the Shar Khovii valley, 30 kilometers from the city center in the 13th khoroo of Khan-Uul district. The four-story building for the business incubator and training-production center in this park has already been put into operation.
As part of the project, open tenders have been announced for the construction of a 24 MW thermal power plant and a wastewater treatment facility. In addition, in order to create environmentally friendly and sustainable energy sources, work is underway—under the assistance of the Government of South Korea and in cooperation with the "Smart Energy Platform Group"—on a technical and economic feasibility study for a 10 MW solar power plant project.
Preparatory work is being carried out to relocate the leather industry from the capital city to the Emeelt park. This includes starting to sign land-use agreements with enterprises. By constructing and relocating leather and wool processing factories to the Emeelt Eco-Industrial Park, it will be possible to rehabilitate the polluted soil in the Tuul River basin.
Officials emphasized that the project will create 5,600 new sustainable jobs, increase the value of animal-derived raw materials, and bring them into economic circulation. Thus, Emeelt Eco-Industrial Park will be developed as a special economic zone for the Argalt-Emeelt satellite city, providing favorable conditions for people to work and live in the area.
This project is being implemented as part of the 24 mega projects for developing Ulaanbaatar city.
5,000 households in five khoroos of Chingeltei and Bayangol districts to be insulated and switched to gas heating
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: gogo.mn
As part of efforts to reduce air pollution in Ulaanbaatar city, this year it has been decided to insulate 5,000 households in five khoroos of Chingeltei and Bayangol districts and convert them to gas heating.
A. Amartuvshin, Deputy Mayor of Ulaanbaatar responsible for Social Sector, Green Development, and Air and Environmental Pollution, met with Maxim Viktorovich Vasiliev, Trade Representative of Russia in Mongolia, and representatives led by Yin Beijing, General Director of China's "Shandong Shinke Holding" LLC.
During the meeting, they exchanged views on planning the use of gas fuel, building a natural liquefied gas processing plant, and increasing investment in infrastructure projects.
Deputy Mayor A. Amartuvshin stated, "Currently, over 200,000 households in the capital are using solid fuel or improved briquettes, and this number tends to increase during winter. Therefore, as part of the 24 mega development projects of Ulaanbaatar, comprehensive residential complexes for 20,000 households have been initiated in Selbe, Bayankhoshuu, and Khanin Material areas under the unified '20-minute city' development plan.
Additionally, work has begun to insulate 5,000 households in five khoroos with high air pollution in Chingeltei and Bayangol districts and gradually switch them to gas heating. In the future, we plan to conduct the necessary studies to transition households in zones with enhanced air quality requirements to electric and gas heating. We wish to cooperate in these projects," he emphasized.
Representatives from Russia and China expressed their readiness to further expand cooperation and work more closely with Ulaanbaatar city.
Yu Won-shik: Focusing on Restoring Normalcy to Mongolia's 'Project to Build Thermal Power Plants in 10 Provincial Centers'
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: ikon.mn
Chairman of the State Great Khural of Mongolia, D. Amarbaysgalan, held an official meeting with Yu Won-shik, Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea. At the beginning of the meeting, Chairman D. Amarbaysgalan expressed his pleasure at the opportunity to meet Mr. Yu Won-shik again following his official visit to Mongolia in April 2025.
Chairman D. Amarbaysgalan highlighted that Mongolia and the Republic of Korea (ROK), who share common values such as democracy, human rights, and a market economy, are important "third neighbors" and close partners in the Northeast Asian region, and that Mongolia is committed to further deepening and strengthening relations and cooperation with the ROK.
He also requested attention to swiftly resolve challenges faced by the “Project to Build Thermal Power Plants in 10 Provincial Centers,” which is being implemented in Mongolia with concessional loans from the ROK, and to prioritize the selection of a new contractor. Additionally, he asked for continued efforts from the National Assembly to facilitate conditions for citizens of the two countries to travel on reciprocal terms, to significantly ease conditions for Mongolian citizens traveling to the ROK for health, humanitarian, and respectful reasons, and to address the issue of Mongolian citizens being sent back from the ROK border.
Yu Won-shik, Speaker of the ROK National Assembly, noted that he is working to ensure the “Project to Build Thermal Power Plants in 10 Provincial Centers” is restored to normal operation and successfully implemented in the shortest time possible following his official visit to Mongolia.
He also stated that studies are underway to make it easier for Mongolian citizens to travel to the ROK. For example, efforts are being made to introduce electronic visas, increase the number of consular staff at the Embassy, and explore options to expedite visas for citizens traveling in organized groups.
Both sides exchanged views on issues agreed during the official visit to Mongolia, in the context of enhancing real economic cooperation.
Source: State Great Khural Press and Media Department
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MIAT Adds Another Aircraft for Domestic Flights
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: unuudur.mn
The national airline MIAT LLC announced yesterday that it has added a new aircraft—Canada's Bombardier CRJ-700—for short-haul and domestic routes. According to the airline, this aircraft has several advantages: it consumes less fuel, its cabin is more spacious compared to similar aircraft, the seats are wider, and the baggage compartments have greater capacity.
Additionally, it is equipped with advanced aerodynamic features and powerful engines, providing high takeoff power and emitting less greenhouse gas, making it more suitable for local conditions. Last year, MIAT acquired a similar model as part of efforts to improve domestic flight accessibility and provide greater comfort for passengers, naming it “Mazaalai.” The new aircraft received yesterday has been named “Irves.”
Land Clearance Underway in Preparation for Tuul Expressway Construction
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: gogo.mn
Preparations for constructing the Tuul Expressway, one of the key projects aimed at reducing traffic congestion in Ulaanbaatar, have intensified, and land clearance work is ongoing.
The Tuul Expressway and the New Ring Road projects, which aim to reduce the city’s road congestion by about 40%, are planned for implementation between 2025 and 2028. The construction of the expressway is scheduled to be completed and opened for use in August 2028.
This expressway will be an international-standard, six-lane, signal-free express road running for a total of 32 km along the south of Bogd Mountain, from the Ulaanbaatar–Nalaikh road to the safety roundabout where the road branches to the western provinces, allowing passengers to travel without stopping.
As of now, regarding land clearance:
- In Bayanzurkh District – 6 properties
- In Bayangol District – 3 properties
- In Khan-Uul District – 15 properties
- In Songinokhairkhan District – 91 properties
A total of 115 properties are affected, and in the first phase, equivalent land has been allocated and cleared from 15 properties. Negotiations continue with the remaining property owners.
Additionally, relevant authorities report that preparations are underway to announce the tender next month to select the contractor for the First Ring Road of the New Ring Road project that will connect with the Tuul Expressway.
These projects are part of the 24 mega projects for the development of Ulaanbaatar city, and experts estimate that once the roads are operational, congestion will be reduced by about 40%.
115 Plots of Land in Four City Districts Affected by Tuul Expressway Construction
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: ikon.mn
The main projects aimed at reducing traffic congestion in Ulaanbaatar by approximately 40% are the Tuul Expressway and the New Ring Road. The city plans to implement these projects from 2025 to 2028. It was announced that the Hong Kong-based HaoYuan Group LLC was selected as the contractor for the Tuul Expressway project. Negotiations on a contract with the company are ongoing, and preparatory work for the expressway construction has begun.
Specifically, land clearance efforts are affecting six plots in Bayanzurkh district, three plots in Bayangol district, 15 plots in Khan-Uul district, and 91 plots in Songinokhairkhan district, totaling 115 plots. Of these, the first stage has cleared land from 15 plots by providing equivalent land elsewhere. Negotiations with the remaining 100 plots continue.
The Tuul Expressway is scheduled to be operational by August 2028. The expressway, which will span 32 kilometers as a six-lane road along the southern side of Ulaanbaatar at the foothills of Bogd Mountain, will connect from the Ulaanbaatar-Nalaikh highway to the safety roundabout that leads to the western provinces. The international-standard expressway will be uninterrupted by traffic lights, allowing vehicles to traverse the entire 32 kilometers without stopping.
Preparations are also underway to announce an open tender next month to select the contractor for the First Ring Road of the New Ring Road, which will connect to the Tuul Expressway. Experts estimate that completion of the Tuul Expressway and the New Ring Road, two major projects within Ulaanbaatar’s development plan of 24 mega projects, would reduce traffic congestion by around 40%.
Source: City Mayor’s Press and Public Relations Department
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Experts in Metro and Railways to be Trained Through Joint Program
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: gogo.mn
Within the scope of human resource development for the Ulaanbaatar Metro project, the Mongolian University of Science and Technology has partnered with Halla University in South Korea to launch a 2+2 program.
Through the program, students will study their first two years at MUST and the next two years in South Korea with a partial scholarship, graduating with a dual diploma.
Classes will be opened in four areas related to metro, tram, and modern railway lines, and graduates will go on to work in the Ulaanbaatar metro, tram, and other railway sectors.
Admissions will continue until August 27, and a total of 200 students are planned to be enrolled this year.
Contractor for Metro Construction to be Selected Next Month
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: news.mn
The depot for the eastern section of the Ulaanbaatar Metro project is planned to be built on a 26.6-hectare site in the 28th khoroo of Bayanzurkh district. This depot will centralize activities such as technical maintenance, diagnostics, repairs, and parking of Ulaanbaatar Metro’s rolling stock. The selection of the contractor for this construction project is being organized through an international open tender in two stages. The second stage of selection is planned to be announced in August, with the contract to be signed with the contractor in October. This will enable construction work to begin in 2026. As part of the project, a general environmental impact assessment has been completed, and the land certificate for the depot construction site has been finalized.
Regarding the significance of the Metro project, B. Amgalanbayar, the Railway Engineer of the Ulaanbaatar Metro project, stated: “Once the Ulaanbaatar Metro project is operational, it will have the capacity to transport 17,200 people per hour and will feature 15 stations. In terms of construction, 14 stops will be underground tunnels, and the final stop will be located at ground level next to the maintenance depot. Additionally, metro trains are planned to run every 4.5 minutes.”
He also mentioned that the metro stations will be 170 meters long, 25 meters wide, and built as three-story underground structures. Specifically, the B1 level will have passenger amenities, the B2 level will house technical sections including equipment, servers, signaling and communications, and electrical control panels, while the B3 level will contain the tunnel section. For the rolling stock, the technical maximum speed will be 80 km/h, the average speed is calculated at 36 km/h, and the top speed will be 100 km/h. This means it will take 36 minutes to travel from one end of the line to the other, with a full round trip requiring 72 minutes.
Kim Jin Nam, Mechanical Design Engineer of "Duhua Engineering" JSC, which provides consulting services, said: “A total of 19 metro trains are planned. They will be fully automated, i.e., driverless. The maintenance depot will have automated systems for repairs, washing, management, and parking. The parking section will be constructed as a closed facility suitable for Mongolia’s harsh climate. The control section will enable full monitoring of the metro system. Since routine maintenance is required every 2-5 years, the design addresses the need for a maintenance center. The metro will follow its route, turn at the western terminus in Tolgoit, return to the eastern depot for washing and maintenance, and then park.”
Regarding the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) to be used for Ulaanbaatar Metro’s tunneling, it will be 30 meters long. Using a total of 13 TBMs, it is calculated that the project will be operational by 2030. The machine can bore at a depth of 25 meters underground and construct the tunnel walls. Since the drilling will be done in the urban area, experts noted that there would be no vibrations felt on the surface.
Environment
This Winter, Briquettes Made from Semi-Coke or Brown Coal Will Be Used as Fuel
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: gogo.mn
The Council of Scientists under the National Committee for Reducing Air Pollution convened to discuss and determine the fuel policy for Ulaanbaatar city for the upcoming winter. They decided to use semi-coke briquettes as fuel.
The meeting was chaired by S. Davaasuren, head of the Working Group, with participation from nine council members, the secretary, and project presenters.
This is the council’s third meeting, and the decision was made based on repeated tests and analyses, confirming the impact of improved briquette fuel raw materials on air pollution.
The council highlighted that the selection of new fuel raw materials should be based on a detailed evaluation.
Also, with decree No. 4 of the National Committee issued on the same day, the Mayor and Governor of Ulaanbaatar, Kh. Nyambaatar, was tasked with organizing the packaging of semi-coke briquettes for consumer use and their distribution to households in the ger districts located in air quality improvement zones.
However, the Council of Scientists, in its "Decision No. 6," noted that the carbon monoxide (CO) content in the briquettes used in the pilot stage exceeded the permissible limit of the MNS 5216:2016 standard by 1.4 times.
It was warned that this does not meet the "General Technical Requirements for Domestic Stoves." Consequently, the mayor was also instructed to closely monitor and improve the briquette technology and to continue exploring alternative raw material sources for future use.
This decision was unanimously supported by all participants in the meeting. As a result, in accordance with the above decree and the council's decision, households in Ulaanbaatar will use semi-coke briquette fuel for the 2025-2026 winter season.
S. Tumurbat: As the Briquetted Fuel Does Not Meet Standards, We Recommended to Change the Raw Materials
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: gogo.mn
The Scientific Council under the National Committee for Reducing Air Pollution has recommended the use of semi-coke briquetted fuel for the 2025-2026 winter fuel policy.
When asked, S. Tumurbat, Secretary of the Scientific Council, stated that they do not have the authority to make decisions and are only responsible for providing scientifically based recommendations.
In May 2025, "Tavantolgoi Fuel" LLC conducted a new trial to produce improved briquetted fuel and requested the scientific council to discuss the results of the binder analysis intended for the product.
Accordingly, after comparing test results of both Mongolian and foreign types of binders, it was found that the toxic gas (carbon monoxide) released from the trial briquetted fuel exceeded the permissible limits set in the MNS 5216:2016 standard.
As a result, the Scientific Council concluded that the current briquetted fuel technology cannot be considered safe, and thus recommended using semi-coke briquetted fuel for households in the city’s ger districts.
They also warned that choosing a new type of fuel should be based on detailed research and analysis.
Our recommendation will be validated by decision-makers.
Innovation
Minister of Digital Development and Communications E. Batshugar meets with World Bank’s Resident Representative in Mongolia Taehyun Lee
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: unuudur.mn
Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communications E. Batshugar met with Taehyun Lee, the World Bank's resident representative in Mongolia. Mr. Taehyun Lee, a citizen of the Republic of Korea, has been appointed as the World Bank's resident representative in Mongolia since 2023. Several projects in the field of information and communication technology (ICT) have been successfully implemented in cooperation with the World Bank.
From 2023 to 2027, the "Smart Governance-2" project is being implemented by the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communications using a concessional loan from the World Bank's International Development Association. The project includes the following directions:
- Establishing cloud infrastructure for the national data center and disaster recovery data center, ensuring their normal operation, and increasing system capacity.
- Creating technical and technological infrastructure to enable early detection and response to cyber threats, attacks, incidents, and malware, continuously providing stakeholders with information about threats and incidents both in normal and emergency situations.
- Expanding the coverage and capacity of the digital signature infrastructure, ensuring its reliability and operations, and updating the technological solutions and infrastructure to meet international standards and benchmarks.
- Updating the KHUR information exchange system and transitioning it to a distributed architecture.
- Providing digital literacy and practical skills training for 10,000 citizens to enhance their digital education.
- Creating 3,000 jobs in the field of digital technology.
- Developing conditions to expand production, services, and trade based on digital technology, improving the digital capabilities of small and medium-sized businesses, and increasing opportunities for conducting business in the digital environment.
These activities are being carried out within the framework of the project.
The 'AI Academy Asia' Artificial Intelligence Training App Officially Launched
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: gogo.mn
Learn artificial intelligence for free in Mongolian, from anywhere!
Great news for young people who want to study artificial intelligence, keep up with the digital world, and improve their competitiveness! "AI Academy Asia," an organization providing accessible AI education, has released updated version 2.0 of its mobile app and website. With this app and website, you can take the latest, high-quality AI courses for free in Mongolian.
Why should you use it?
Not only do local expert engineers teach, but instructors from top global universities are also included. It offers you quality content, easy usability, and the opportunity to develop your skills in practice.
Features and advantages:
- Free coding courses
- Python programming language
- Basic concepts of AI
- Suitable for all learners from beginners to advanced
- Internationally recognized certification
- Real opportunities to develop your professional skills
How to use it?
Just search for “AI Academy Asia” on your mobile Play Store or App Store, download the app for free, and start learning.
Direct download links:
Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.app.aiacademy&hl=en
App Store: https://apps.apple.com/mn/app/ai-academy-asia/id6748180960
Website: https://www.ai-academy.asia/mn
Facebook: AI Academy Asia
Instagram: @AI_Academy_Asia
There is no such thing as too early or too late to learn artificial intelligence!
Start investing in yourself today.
Warning About Possible Online Fraud Mimicking GoGo.mn Website
Published: 2025-07-31 | Translated from: gogo.mn
"Mongol Content" LLC operates the GoGo.mn news website and has been providing uninterrupted service for the past 18 years. However, a suspicious article, potentially aiming to commit fraud by imitating our news site's name and logo, has been circulating online.
A fake version mimicking our website published a fraudulent article using the name and photo of the late S. Zorig. Although the headline reads, "The Hidden Truth of Sanjaasuren Zorig's Murder: Why Was He Really Killed," the content is actually an article resembling a scam, claiming "Invest with a starting capital of 600,000 MNT and earn a monthly income of 8-10 million MNT."
The appearance of the GoGo.mn logo and the presence of a pop-up message stating, "ZORIG CAPITAL – THIS IS NOT JUST AN INVESTMENT. THIS IS A LEGACY THAT NEEDS TO BE PROTECTED." when clicking on other parts of the site indicate a high probability that online fraud is being committed by imitating our site's name and logo.
This information is being distributed through a Facebook page named Zorig Capital (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100078985064094), and it is falsely claimed there that the platform is fully supported by the Zorig Foundation based on data. The Zorig Foundation has also denied this claim.
Therefore, immediate action has been taken to delete the above-mentioned article, identify the perpetrators, and hold them accountable in accordance with the law. We have reported the issue to the police.
We at the editorial team of GoGo.mn and "Mongol Content" LLC urge citizens, the public, and our readers and users to avoid clicking on such suspicious links to prevent potential risks.
You can also learn about methods to check suspicious online links HERE.
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