Jul 8, 2025 61 min read Daily News Summaries

Mongolia News Summary for July 08, 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

The Draft Resolution Granting Permission to Issue Government Debt Guarantee Submitted to the Parliament

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Deputy Speaker of the Parliament Kh. Bulgantuya, Member of Parliament and Minister of Finance B. Javkhlan, and Mayor of the Capital and Governor of Ulaanbaatar City Kh. Nyambaatar today submitted to the Parliamentary Deputy Speaker the draft resolution of the Parliament titled “Granting Permission to Issue a Government Debt Guarantee.”

This draft resolution contains two provisions. The first provision addresses granting permission for a government debt guarantee in the 2025 budget year of up to 85% of the principal and interest payments of a $260.3 million loan to the "Capital City Investment Agency" SOE, aiming to source funding for the “First Ring Road” project to reduce traffic congestion in Ulaanbaatar. The second provision regulates the duration for which the resolution shall be enforced.

The traffic load on the roads of Ulaanbaatar has sharply increased, and in the past 10 years, the number of registered vehicles in the capital has grown by 80%. Every day, about 580,000-680,000 vehicles participate in traffic in the capital, which is twice the design capacity of the current roads. Therefore, officials highlight that building a new ring road network that diverts the traffic flow around the city center is the key solution to reducing congestion.

For instance, there is currently no complete ring expressway in the city, and the main roads intersect in the city center, causing traffic to concentrate there. However, by constructing a new ring expressway, traffic will connect directly through the outskirts, noticeably reducing the load in the central districts. Studies show that by expanding the road network and introducing new roads, average congestion on main streets could decrease by 20%.

The new ring road will not only organize urban traffic but is also of strategic importance for the development of surrounding regions and the road network. The road will connect the main national and regional highways leading to Ulaanbaatar at the outskirts, thus reducing through-traffic in the city and preventing regional transport from causing urban congestion. For example, when planning the route of the first ring road, it was included that the road would connect to the Darhan-Uul province road in the northwest, the Nalaikh and Choir roads in the southeast, and the expressway toward the new airport in Khushig Valley in the south.

Back to Table of Contents

If H. Battulga Pushed Out the Investor of "Gatsuurt Deposit" from Mongolia, L. Munkhbayasgalan May Be Delaying and Waiting for Changes to the Law Requiring 34% Be Given to the State

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: isee.mn

The slowdown in Mongolia’s coal exports and subsequent drop in national revenue has had a direct impact on the budget, leading to a 2.3 trillion MNT reduction and the need for budget adjustments. To compensate for the deficit, the government announced the implementation of the "Gold-3" program to boost gold mining. In times of economic hardship, such “Gold” programs have provided stability and relief for the economy.

—FAMILIAR PR CAMPAIGNS—

Thus, starting last Thursday, the parliament began discussing the resolution on “Measures to implement the Gold-3 campaign.” During this session, MP L. Munkhbayasgalan declared, “I oppose the resolution linked to the Gold-3 program. If this resolution passes, it will enable mining of the gold at Noyon Mountain. Should mining at Noyon Mountain proceed, I will call upon the public to protest and rise up.”

Moreover, last weekend, Basoo Khukh Mongol’s P. Shinjiravdan posted a message on social media, saying: “We will not allow mining at Noyon Mountain. If they do, we will dig up the secrets of the so-called lords and dogs. The people’s patience is at its limit. I warn D. Damdinyam not to instigate unrest.” His words were widely interpreted as a threat, rallying the public toward disorder in the name of “the people.”

Whenever "Gatsuurt gold deposit" is discussed, a few activist groups such as "Save Noyon Mountain," "Gall Nation Union," and "Basoo Khukh Mongol" become active, running a familiar PR campaign led by H. Battulga and his circle, framing the issue as “Mining Noyon Mountain.” However, uncovering whose interests are truly behind these events is a crucial task for law enforcement agencies.

THE SINGAPORE-REGISTERED COMPANY THAT BOUGHT THE GATSUURT GOLD DEPOSIT MAY BELONG TO D. ERDENEBILEG

Right after being elected President of Mongolia in 2017, H. Battulga announced his intention to assert state control over the gold sector, proposed restricting gold licenses, and emphasized that only Mongolians should mine the gold. He specifically criticized the “Centerra Gold” company, which invested in the “Gatsuurt gold deposit.”

Subsequently, G. Uyanga, H. Battulga’s advisor, actively participated in the “Save Noyon Mountain” movement that sued to revoke Gatsuurt’s special permit. Consequently, the Toronto-listed “Centerra Gold” faced criticism and pressure, forcing it to sell its Gatsuurt project and exit Mongolia in 2018.

On October 12, 2018, Centerra Gold announced it had sold its Mongolian business to Singapore-registered “OZD ASIA PTE” for $35 million. This included the Boroo gold mine, processing plant, and Gatsuurt project. OZD ASIA PTE acquired all shares and liabilities of Centerra’s Mongolian subsidiaries “Boroo Gold LLC” and “Centerra Gold Mongolia LLC” from Centerra Netherlands (BVBA).

Afterward, sources reported that the Singapore-registered "OZD ASIA PTE," which bought the Boroo and Gatsuurt gold projects for $35 million, is owned by Mongolian citizen E. Dölgöön and two Malaysian citizens. It has been speculated that behind E. Dölgöön stands D. Erdenebileg, owner of the Trade and Development Bank, as E. Dölgöön previously worked as a journalist for UB Post and at Ulaanbaatar City Bank, owned by D. Erdenebileg. E. Dölgöön’s brother, E. Dolgion, once headed Bloomberg TV Mongolia, a channel launched by the Trade and Development Bank.

All this suggests that the special license for the "Gatsuurt gold deposit," once held by "Centerra Gold," was forcibly taken over by a group hiding behind "civic movements" such as "Save Noyon Mountain," ultimately ending up in the hands of certain Mongolian individuals. H. Battulga’s interests may also be entangled in this affair.

Notably, OZD ASIA PTE, which purchased Boroo and Gatsuurt, went on to buy a gold mine in Peru worth $226 million via Boroo Pte in 2021, as reported by barrick.com. Incidentally, in the same year, H. Battulga’s brother H. Batuul was serving as Mongolia’s Honorary Consul in Peru, and later that year Mongolian citizens gained visa-free access to Peru—a suspicious coincidence.

—LAW REQUIRING 34-50% OF GATSUURT DEPOSIT TO BE GIVEN TO THE STATE FOR FREE MAKES EXPLOITATION UNATTRACTIVE

According to the unified state register, Centerra Gold recorded the proven and probable reserves of the Gatsuurt gold deposit at 50 tons. Mining at Gatsuurt would not disturb the Noyon Mountain cemeteries due to the geological conditions requiring advanced technology to extract gold from deep underground. Additionally, all extracted gold would be sold only to Mongolbank, not allowed to exit the country unmonitored; thus, by all measures, it is a strategic project beneficial to Mongolia.

However, its proximity to the historical site of Noyon Mountain makes it a "bait" for political groups. The opposition from H. Battulga and his affiliates may be tied to this.

Currently, the probable reason for this opposition is as follows: the Boroo and Gatsuurt gold deposits were included in the list of strategic mineral deposits. Under amendments to the Law on Minerals (Articles 5.4 and 5.5), passed in 2024, 34-50% of such deposits must be handed to the state free of charge. Thus, politicizing the issue in the name of “Protecting Noyon Mountain” may be a way to delay exploiting the deposit, waiting for a change in the law and buying time to circumvent state ownership.

Back to Table of Contents

N.Uchral: We will adhere to the principle of granting 50+1 percent ownership of derived deposits to the state and the people

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The government presented the decisions made at today's Cabinet meeting.

Minister of Economy and Development N. Uchral stated: Budget revenue has fallen short by 3.3 trillion. Therefore, it is necessary for us to prioritize 14 mega projects. The projects were ranked using 14 evaluation criteria in four main areas: their impact on society and the economy, project readiness assessment, reliability of funding sources, and social significance. The evaluation showed that out of the 14 mega projects, five have already begun and are progressing well, while five projects can be implemented directly with investment without requiring government budget funding. The remaining four projects need to be postponed for a certain period.

One of the mega projects, the construction of the border connection at the Gashuunsukhait–Gants Mod port, is being implemented in line with the resolution approved at a joint government meeting. The Chinese side has already started their part of the work, while the Mongolian side plans to begin construction on August 10th. This project is proceeding on schedule under the agreement between the two countries' national development and reform commissions, and is deemed important for increasing export earnings and organizing future port connection works. The Prime Minister is also continuing discussions with the Chinese Ambassador and other relevant parties regarding this matter. As for the Eg River hydropower plant, since it is one of the rivers that flows into Lake Baikal, a joint research group of scientists from both Mongolia and the Russian Federation has been established to start research on the project's potential impact on Lake Baikal. The parties are working to resolve issues of project funding and other financial matters through negotiations. It can be said that this project is proceeding as planned.

The feasibility study (FS) for the Orkhon-Ongi project, aimed at providing water to the Gobi region, was completed in 2019 and 2021, and the possibility of implementing it with private sector investment is being examined. The FS for the Kherlen-Toonot project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. It is planned that financing for these projects will come from "Erdenes Mongolia" and "Oyu Tolgoi" companies. These projects have not come to a complete halt, but rather new types of financing mechanisms are being developed.

Regarding Tuul Expressway, it is not one of the government’s 14 mega projects, but is one of the 24 mega projects being implemented by the Capital City Administration. The city government announced that the project will proceed as scheduled. The contractor was selected by tender, and work is set to begin on July 22, with construction to normalize from August 1.

In conjunction with these projects and construction works, next Wednesday’s Cabinet meeting will finalize a 100-day official task program, and ministers from each sector will present and prioritize their respective works.

Regarding the Sovereign Wealth Fund, this is not an issue solely under one minister’s discretion. Revenues for the Wealth Fund are concentrated by the "Erdenes Mongolia" union, while the accounts for citizens’ savings are managed by the Minister of Labor and Social Protection. The Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Economy and Development, and the Bank of Mongolia are also inevitably involved in asset management. As this is an inter-sectoral joint matter, the working group has been restructured, a review is being conducted based on the 2007 resolution of the Parliament to determine which strategic deposits are included, and financial controls and audits are being carried out.

Regarding strategic deposits, the Government adheres to the principle that the majority of the wealth should belong to the people and sits at the negotiating table on this basis. For derived deposits, the principle is for the state and the people to own 50+1 percent. For other deposits, the government’s approach is to negotiate in the way that most benefits the people. This is because for deposits like Tögrog Nuur, which have been sold abroad through international schemes, obtaining 50 percent could put the people at risk of debt.

Back to Table of Contents

26 Suspected Criminal Offenses Worth MNT 10.2 Billion Have Been Transferred to Law Enforcement for Investigation

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The National Audit Office today provided information about violations detected as a result of financial control and audits. In particular, following the Parliament's recent review and approval of the consolidated financial report of the Government for 2024 and the report on the execution of the 2024 budget, the Audit Office has made this announcement. Mongolia's Chief Auditor, S. Magnai-Suren, presented the following information.

The National Audit Office is an organization aimed at ensuring national security. As such, it serves as the eyes and ears overseeing the efficient and effective use of public funds and state-owned property, informing Parliament and relevant institutions, and taking action if necessary.

Our agency audited the financial reports of 6,832 budget managers under 61 main budget governors. This audit revealed financial violations totaling MNT 9.2 trillion. Breaking down these figures: - For 2,364 violations amounting to MNT 27 billion, payment acts were issued. - For 4,685 violations amounting to MNT 7.5 trillion, official demands were made.

The reason for such a high sum of violations is primarily due to a five trillion tugrik accounting error in Mongolia's State Fund. After correcting this, the total sum of violations under official demand rose to MNT 7.5 trillion, leading to a total violation value of MNT 9.2 trillion when combined with other findings.

When looking at the dynamics of violations over past years, some types have increased while others have decreased. We analyze all violations and develop policies to reduce them and to work with budget managers toward that end. For this reason, we pay attention to the dynamics of violations.

For violations totaling MNT 60 billion, 151 official demands for disciplinary action were sent regarding 165 officials responsible.
For MNT 1.6 trillion in violations, 6,009 recommendations were issued.
Most seriously, for 26 suspected criminal offenses amounting to MNT 10.2 billion, the cases have been transferred to law enforcement agencies for investigation.

Ultimately, those who committed violations must be held accountable, and repeat violations must be prevented.

"Since recommendations are provided only verbally, budget managers may not pay much attention during interim audits"

Based on this year's audit results, violations should greatly decrease in future audit reports. Starting in August, during interim audits, our focus will be on reducing violations, ensuring the implementation of official demands, payment acts, and recommendations. We will work jointly with chief budget governors on these matters. If special attention is given to implementation during the interim audit, there will be an opportunity for a significant reduction in violations during the next stage's (2025) budget performance and consolidated financial reports.

Chief and direct budget managers need to give special attention to and work jointly on the interim audits. Interim audits do not officially issue payment acts, demands, or recommendations. In other words, since only verbal advice is given, budget managers may pay little attention to interim audits. Therefore, our goal this year is to increase the significance of interim audits. We aim to work together to ensure that violations drastically decrease in coming years.

"According to the results of the latest tax inspections of legal entities and individuals, MNT 7.3 trillion in violations were detected"

Some media reports have indicated issues such as "MNT 7.3 trillion in tax problems" and suspicions of "possible money laundering". During tax administration by the General Department of Taxation and inspectors, MNT 7.3 trillion worth of violations suspected of being criminal were detected and transferred to law enforcement agencies.

Specifically: - Understated, concealed revenues, or overstated expenses related to contracts and operations: 94 individuals (MNT 3.9 trillion) and 56 entities (MNT 2 trillion), totaling MNT 6 trillion, were found to have such violations and transferred to law enforcement. - Unverified goods/services purchased and reduced VAT through electronic invoices: 17 entities had MNT 950 billion in violations. - Issuing large amounts of electronic payment receipts without actual operations or revenues, enabling others to evade taxes: 66 entities had MNT 855.2 billion in violations. - Suspected money laundering and connections to online gambling: 43 entities (MNT 337.8 billion) and one individual (MNT 600 million), totaling MNT 338.4 billion.

These four categories sum to MNT 7.3 trillion. It's important to clarify that this MNT 7.3 trillion does not involve government agencies, ministries, or state/locally owned companies; these are findings from regular tax inspections of private legal entities and individuals, which were uncovered and reported to law enforcement.

The notion that MNT 7.3 trillion was laundered by the government, ministries, agencies, or state-owned companies is a misconception spread in society. These issues were identified by tax authorities in their work and transferred for legal investigation, not by government or state entities.

"Tax inspectors can no longer serve as experts in tax disputes after the 2019 law change"

In connection to this, the Audit Office recommended to the Minister of Justice to improve the legal environment for investigating and resolving tax disputes. Previously, tax inspectors could raise and resolve issues quickly through criminal and other proceedings. However, after legal amendments in 2019, they can no longer serve as experts in tax-related litigation. As a result, large-scale cases have accumulated in law enforcement agencies, so the legal framework requires improvement.

Parliament is giving special attention to the consolidated financial statements and budget execution reports of the government. Citizens now also have the opportunity to be informed, and reports are discussed and evaluated under broad oversight. Moving forward, special attention to these reports, reducing violations, and ensuring the efficient use of budget and state property is a direction where we as a society can move forward together, according to Chief Auditor S. Magnai-Suren.

Warning: Media and news organizations (TV, Radio, Social media, and Web pages) are prohibited from fully or partially using this information in any form, except with agreement, and only with proper attribution to ikon.mn as the source.

Back to Table of Contents

Ts. Naranchimeg: There are still issues of misappropriating budget funds

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The National Audit Office today delivered information regarding the violations discovered in the results of financial controls and inspections.

At the event, Ts. Naranchimeg, Director of the Financial Audit Department and leading auditor of the department, said: "We performed financial statement audits in 6,832 organizations. These organizations include all levels, starting from direct budget managers up to general budget managers. The state audit institution is conducting audits to confirm financial statements. The violations occur because budget managers do not comply with the applicable laws when making decisions to manage and spend budget funds. Another persistent issue is the misappropriation of budget funds by budget managers. In addition, there are many other issues such as organizations reporting their payables and receivables without confirmation. We combine our financial statement audits with inspections for compliance with the Glass Accounts Law and the Law on State Savings, so repeated violations are seen related to non-compliance with the Glass Accounts Law and not providing information in time."

Continuing, D. Enkhbold, head of the Performance Audit Department of the National Audit Office, said: "We do not only conduct financial statement audits nationwide. We also carry out performance and compliance audits to determine how effective the legal and organizational conditions are for the activities of government and other organizations in different sectors. Within this framework, we examine issues at the policy level and conduct topic-based audits. For example, last year we included themed audits on social protection issues, social insurance, child protection, the effectiveness of human resources in the civil service, systems, government budget investments, and implementation of annual development plans. From the perspective of performance and compliance audits, PLANNING ERRORS remain a weakness in government budget investments, annual development plans, and other sectors as well."

Warning
Media outlets (TV, radio, social, and web platforms) are strictly prohibited from using our information in whole or in part in any form. It may only be used with prior agreement by mentioning the original source (ikon.mn).

Back to Table of Contents

The MPP and DP Parliamentary Groups to Convene

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: isee.mn

As scheduled, the parliamentary groups of the Mongolian People's Party (MPP) and the Democratic Party (DP) in the State Great Khural (Parliament) will convene today to consolidate their proposals and conclusions. Additionally, there will be a meeting of the working group tasked with reviewing the implementation and effectiveness of Resolution No. 21, 2020 of the State Great Khural regarding the strategy to reduce lending interest rates and preparing respective recommendations and conclusions.

There will also be a meeting of the working group responsible for discussing and preparing drafts of amendments to the Urban Development Law (revised version), as well as other related proposed laws submitted together. Furthermore, another working group will meet to develop proposals and conclusions toward supporting the development of the capital market, improving the investment legal environment, and drafting necessary legislation.

A separate working group will also meet today to develop draft laws and resolutions of the State Great Khural aimed at ensuring coherence among Mongolia’s long, medium, and short-term development policies and planning documents, optimizing policy indicators, evaluating and monitoring implementation, identifying key issues, and creating a results-based assessment and monitoring system, as well as improving the relevant legal framework.

Back to Table of Contents

151 Official Requests Issued for 165 Officials with 60 Billion MNT Audit Violations

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: isee.mn

Last week, the State Great Khural (Parliament) discussed and approved the audit report by the State Audit Agency on the consolidated financial report for Mongolia’s 2024 unified budget and the Government’s 2024 consolidated financial statements. In connection with this, the Chief Auditor of Mongolia S. Magnai-Suren and relevant officials provided information today.

In 2025, the National Audit Office conducted audits on the financial reports of 61 general budget governors and 6,832 direct budget governors under their jurisdictions. As a result of these audits, 151 official demands for accountability were submitted regarding 165 officials who were found to have committed 60.0 billion MNT worth of violations. Additionally, 6,001 recommendations were issued to rectify discrepancies totaling 1.0 trillion MNT, and 10.2 billion MNT of violations suspected to be of a criminal nature were referred to the Prosecutor’s Office.

Chief Auditor S. Magnai-Suren emphasized, “It is not only important to hold those found in violation accountable, but also to prevent the recurrence of such violations. Based on this year’s results, the number of errors and violations identified in future audits should decrease significantly. Therefore, in the interim audits scheduled for August, the National Audit Office will pay special attention to ensuring the fulfillment of previous acts and official requirements by working closely with general budget governors.”

Regarding the types of violations detected in financial statement audits, they include the improper expenditure of budget funds outside the legal framework, spending funds for unintended purposes, and reporting receivables and payables without proper documentation. Furthermore, Head Auditor Ts. Naranchimeg of the Financial Audit Division pointed out that some budget governors fail to keep their transparent accounts in accordance with the law.

In addition to financial statement audits, the State Audit Agency also conducts performance and compliance audits. For 2024, performance audits were conducted on state budget investments for 69 buildings in the education sector, 12 in the culture sector, 24 in health and medical services, 18 in engineering infrastructure, 28 buildings and structures to improve infrastructure and electrical supply, and on 202.4 km of roads. D. Enkhbold, Director of the Performance Audit Division, informed that the implementation rate of the annual budget for investment projects was 62.7%, and the execution rate of projects and measures planned for that year was 69%.

During the information session, Chief Auditor S. Magnai-Suren also addressed issues in the media relating to the suspected money laundering of 7.3 trillion MNT associated with tax matters. He said, “The General Department of Taxation has referred cases involving discrepancies in tax collection, assessment, contracts, goods, services, and suspected money laundering totaling 7.3 trillion MNT to law enforcement authorities for investigation. Specifically, violations amounting to about 6 trillion MNT were found related to 94 individuals and 56 entities who underreported or hid sales revenue, or overstated expenses. Additionally, 17 companies had violations totaling 950.0 billion MNT regarding the issuance of unsubstantiated e-receipts to reduce VAT. Furthermore, 66 entities that did not carry out operations but issued large amounts of e-receipts allowing others to evade tax had violations totaling 855.2 billion MNT. Finally, 43 entities and 1 individual were detected with violations totaling 338.4 billion MNT suspected to be related to money laundering through online gambling. Summing up these four types of violations comes to 7.3 trillion MNT, which, as emphasized, does not involve government agencies, ministries, budget organizations, or state-owned companies, but instead pertains to routine tax audits of private citizens and businesses.”

The National Audit Office has recommended to the Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs to improve the legal framework for investigating and resolving tax disputes. Specifically, since 2019, tax inspectors are no longer allowed to act as experts in tax disputes, which has led to a backlog of high-value cases awaiting resolution by law enforcement. The recommendation is to resolve these issues by improving the legal environment.

Back to Table of Contents

Kh. Nyambaatar: All Ads Saying 'Khuushuur Permit for Sale' Will Be Forwarded to the Criminal Police and Anti-Corruption Agency for Investigation

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

During the National Naadam Festival, permits were planned to be issued at 206 spots in the Central Stadium and 370 spots at Khui Doloon Khudag, totaling 576 permits. Applications for conducting trade and services were collected from July 1st to 3rd. However, issues have arisen regarding the reselling of these permits.

On this issue, city governor Kh. Nyambaatar stated, “All rights for food and public service operations have been transferred to each district. If khuushuur permits are being sold by district officials, there will be no tolerance, and such matters will be reported to the Anti-Corruption Agency (ATG). All advertisements for 'khuushuur permit for sale' in front of Khui Doloon Khudag or the Central Stadium will be reported and investigated by ATG. The city did not issue a single permit for home-based khuushuur making; all permits were issued by the districts. Some people on social media have said that getting a khuushuur permit now requires a special license. There are only a limited number of permits, so of course, they are selected through competition.

Jargalsaikhan, Battur, Tseren, and other district governors have issued the khuushuur permits in six districts. District governors are responsible for everything related to the khuushuur permits. We will investigate cases of reselling khuushuur permits. If khuushuur permits have been issued through bribery or conflicts of interest, submit the names and phone numbers of those listed in such ads to the ATG and Criminal Police in writing (via B. Batzorig).

The rights for green space maintenance, cleaning and services of public spaces, monuments, fountains, waste collection and transportation, and the disposal of stray dogs and cats have been delegated to district mayors. None of the district governors have appeared to discuss when such work will be completed and are displaying self-serving behavior. District governors must explain issues occurring in their respective districts, make fixes on the ground, and provide care,” he said today during the weekly meeting of city officials.

Warning: Media organizations (television, radio, social media, and websites) are prohibited from using our information in whole or in part in any form, and may only use it by agreement and with attribution to the source (ikon.mn).

Back to Table of Contents

Economy

IMF: Post-Recovery Risks in Mongolia's Economy Are Growing, Policy Reforms Needed

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: itoim.mn

A team of representatives from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) who worked in Mongolia from June 4-18 presented the results of the Article IV consultation. The statement gave an in-depth assessment of Mongolia's economic conditions and outlined the main policy priorities going forward.

According to the IMF, Mongolia's economy expanded in the past two years thanks to historically high coal exports and increased government spending, but domestic economic imbalances have emerged in the form of high inflation, excessive credit growth, and a current account deficit. While fiscal revenue and foreign reserves increased, an overly expansionary fiscal policy stimulated domestic demand, imports, and price growth.

At the beginning of 2025, the fall in commodity prices and a sharp drop in coal export income are expected to result in: - A fall in fiscal revenue and a widening budget deficit, - Continued current account deficits and declining foreign reserves, - A weakening of the tugrik and persistently high inflation levels.

The IMF recommends the following urgent policy reforms:

Fiscal Policy: Spending should be restrained to ensure stability
- It is important to maintain structural balance in line with fiscal rules and the medium-term fiscal framework.
- While limiting expenditure, it is necessary to preserve social spending focused on the most vulnerable groups.
- Tax reform should be revisited. In particular, provisions that reduce non-mining tax revenue may exacerbate fiscal deficits, limit the fiscal space for investment, and hinder adherence to fiscal rules.
- It is considered more effective to rationalize concessional tax programs, fully collect outstanding tax liabilities, and modernize tax and customs administration.

Monetary Policy and Exchange Rate: Firm Stance Against Inflation, Flexible Exchange Rate Needed
- With inflation remaining high, monetary policy should stay tight, with a willingness to increase the policy rate if necessary.
- The Bank of Mongolia should further increase exchange rate flexibility, support the market in establishing the exchange rate, build up reserves in favorable market conditions, and phase out its intervention.
- The Bank of Mongolia should fully exit the concessional mortgage program and stop its role in directing the "Savings Fund" to housing finance.
- The Bank of Mongolia and the Ministry of Finance should jointly develop and implement a central bank recapitalization strategy.

Financial System: Risks from Rapid Growth Must Be Controlled
- Macroprudential tools such as debt service-to-income (DSTI) limits for banks and non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), capital buffers, and solvency requirements should be expanded.
- Transitioning to a risk-based supervision framework is welcomed.
- Proper regulation of related parties and ownership structures in banks and NBFIs, as well as clear crisis measures, are important.
- To improve access to credit for SMEs, reforms are needed in credit information and bankruptcy law.

Governance and Business Environment: Transparency and Legal Reform Are Essential
- Government involvement should be reduced, private sector confidence increased, and a supportive environment for foreign investment created.
- Improvements are needed in tax fairness, land use, licensing processes, and judicial transparency.
- To reduce corruption risks and improve state-owned enterprises (SOEs) governance, it is crucial to adopt whistleblower protection and amend SOE laws.

Climate Change: Policies and Financing for a Green Transition Are Lacking
- Policies to adapt to natural risks like harsh winters and flooding are not fully implemented.
- There is a need for policies targeting Mongolia's high carbon emissions and air pollution.
- With declining coal demand in China, Mongolia must diversify its economic structure.
- There is no comprehensive climate law nor full budgetary alignment for such policies.
- Successful green transition will require public and private financing, as well as fiscal space.

The IMF highlights the post-revival imbalances in Mongolia’s economy and the risks from falling coal prices, recommending that Mongolia enact comprehensive reforms in fiscal, monetary, and financial policy to support stability and flexibility. If the government and Bank of Mongolia implement reforms swiftly and decisively, the IMF concludes that Mongolia can overcome its economic challenges successfully.

Back to Table of Contents

Coal Export Revenues Expected to Decrease by 13-30 Percent

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: news.mn

Decisions from the Cabinet's emergency meeting were presented. Mongolia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development, N. Uchral, stated that at today's cabinet meeting, they listened to and summarized the ministers' suggestions regarding the government's 100-day action plan. Starting next week, citizen proposals will be collected through the government's 11-11 center and the E-Mongolia platform. The coalition government has decided to implement 14 mega-projects. Budget revenues have fallen short by 3.3 trillion tugriks. Going forward, export income, especially coal export income, is expected to decrease by 13-30 percent. Thus, economic growth is forecasted to slow down next year. Therefore, it has become necessary to prioritize the 14 mega-projects. They decided to rank them according to four criteria: impact on society and the economy, source of financing, readiness assessment, and social significance.

Currently, five projects have already started operations and do not require state funding. Four of the remaining projects will inevitably be postponed. Construction of the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod border railway connection has started on the southern border. China has started their work, and Mongolia will begin theirs next month. An agreement has been signed with China's National Development and Reform Commission to implement this project. Projects already prepared like this will continue, while some will be postponed. More detailed information will be provided after next Wednesday's cabinet meeting.

The feasibility study for the Kherlen-Toono project will be completed by the end of 2025. The Tuul Expressway is one of the 24 projects in the capital and work is proceeding as normal. The contractor has been selected and construction will commence on August 1st. Some projects will be implemented with foreign loans and assistance. This year, the Economic Forum will be held at a high level, with around 1,000 guests participating. The Economic Forum NGO organizes it, and the government has not provided any expenses except for the accreditation costs of civil servants, which have been covered. He also mentioned that in the current conditions of economic contraction, the government should, on the contrary, expand the budget. According to information from the Bank of Mongolia, the country's foreign currency reserves amount to 5.2 billion US dollars.

Minister of Health J. Chinburen: The Medipass hospital in Erdenet will be converted into a branch cancer hospital. Due to the increased outbreak of measles, vaccination for 230,000 children began on June 23rd. So far, over 130,000 children in the capital have been vaccinated, achieving a rate of over 40 percent. In provinces such as Bulgan, Uvurkhangai, and Sukhbaatar, the supplementary vaccination rate exceeds 60 percent. Whereas 500-600 children per day previously required emergency treatment for measles complications, thanks to vaccination, this number has dropped to 100-150 children per day.

Minister of Labor and Social Protection T. Aubakir: The government and the Bank of Mongolia agreed to leave the pension loans unchanged. Currently, Khan Bank has resumed normal lending, while State Bank is slower. Social workers are present in every district and administrative unit. With the upcoming National Naadam Festival, social workers have been instructed to pay special attention to the safety of child jockeys.

Back to Table of Contents

The Economic Forum Begins Tomorrow Morning

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Mongolia Economic Forum 2025 will begin tomorrow morning at 9:00 AM in the Government Palace. Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar took office on the 10th of last month. His government's first forum will start tomorrow.

The head of the executive branch, during the MPP's (Mongolian People's Party) committee meeting in response to questions from members, said, "I will continue the policies initiated by L. Oyun-Erdene. We will focus on economic growth and will engage in discussions with our two neighboring countries." Minister of Economic Development N. Uchral stated, "When economic growth slows, the government cannot simply cut its spending in response."

During the two-day economic forum, policies to be pursued by newly appointed ministers, who took office a month ago, will become clearer.

The topic of the first presentation tomorrow will be the main economic directions of Mongolia. It is of interest whether participants will unanimously name mining or highlight other sectors such as information technology and agriculture.

About 500 from the government sector, 700 from the private sector, and 900 from NGOs have registered to participate in the conference. Each Mongolian citizen attending the conference has paid one million MNT, while foreign nationals have paid 500 USD.

Back to Table of Contents

Exports Decrease by 16.1 Percent

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

In June of this year, Mongolia exported goods and raw materials worth 6,581.4 million US dollars. This is a decrease of 1,248.9 million US dollars or 16.1 percent compared to the same period last year. The export of goods from six categories increased, while the export of goods from fourteen categories decreased.

More specifically, the export of plant-based products increased by 126 percent, basic metals and products made from them by 35.9 percent, and the export of pearls, precious and semi-precious stones, jewelry, and coins increased by 4.5 percent.

Furthermore, in the first six months of this year, 94.5 percent of exported mineral products comprised coal, copper concentrate, molybdenum concentrate, fluorspar, iron ore, zinc ore, and crude oil.

Back to Table of Contents

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to Increase Investments

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Development N. Uchral received at the State Palace a delegation led by Huseyin Ozhan, Director for Central Asia and Mongolia at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on expanding their cooperation in line with the government's key priorities. The EBRD emphasized that it will deepen cooperation and increase its investments in major projects.

Mr. Huseyin Ozhan stated, “Our bank is working collaboratively to improve governance, enhance the business environment, strengthen regional integration, and support a green and climate-resilient economy. We are pleased that these efforts closely align with the government’s policies. In the future, there are opportunities to expand our cooperation in the areas of renewable energy, business investments, foreign trade, exports, public-private partnerships, and supporting science, technology, and innovation.”

Since 2007, the EBRD has provided a total of USD 2.5 billion in financing to 151 public and private sector projects in Mongolia, primarily through loans and investments. Notably, 93 percent of this funding has been directed to the private sector, making significant contributions to economic growth and job creation.

Back to Table of Contents

N.Uchral: Budget Revenue Fell Short by 3.3 Trillion MNT

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: gogo.mn

An extraordinary meeting of the Government was held today. N. Uchral, Minister of Economy and Development, presented the decisions made at the meeting. He stated, "This year's budget revenue has fallen short by 3.3 trillion MNT. The previous government approved a resolution to implement 14 mega projects. We have prioritized these projects.

Construction of the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod border railway has begun on the southern border. China has started their work, and our side will begin next month. To implement this project, a contract was signed with China's National Development and Reform Commission. Projects that have these preparations in place will continue, while some other projects will be postponed. After the Cabinet meeting next Wednesday, we will provide more detailed information.

Tomorrow, an Economic Forum will be held, with around 1,000 guests attending. The forum is organized by the 'Economic Forum' NGO. This year, the only expense covered by the government was the delegate badge fees for civil servants; no other expenses were incurred."

He also said that, given the current economic contraction, the government should actually expand its budget. According to information from the Bank of Mongolia, the country’s foreign currency reserves stand at $5.2 billion USD.

Back to Table of Contents

The 'National Wealth Fund' Joins the International Wealth Funds Institution as a Member

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: itoim.mn

In order to implement sustainable management and governance principles of wealth fund management, localize best practices, and improve the management and performance of the wealth fund by gaining an international rating among global wealth funds, Chinggis Khaan National Wealth Fund LLC organized Mongolia's application to the International Wealth Funds Institution and was granted membership rights on June 19, 2025.

A summit of wealth funds managing a total of 5 trillion US dollars was held in London from June 17 to 19, 2025. During the "World Wealth Funds Summit-2025," the CEO of Chinggis Khaan National Wealth Fund, B. Temuulen, participated as a panelist in the opening discussion "Funding the Future." He presented the structure and human development-focused investment policy of the Chinggis Khaan National Wealth Fund and shared insights on investment opportunities and the business environment in Mongolia. He also delivered a speech on the topic "The Future of Global Wealth Funds" during the summit's closing, highlighting the roles and importance of national wealth funds in the current uncertain global economic environment.

During the summit, Chinggis Khaan National Wealth Fund met with leading global sovereign wealth funds such as the Qatar Investment Authority, Abu Dhabi Investment Fund, the U.S. Futures Regulatory Commission, and several international asset management organizations to explore partnership opportunities. As a member of the International Wealth Funds Institution, the fund has created favorable conditions to actively participate in the global network.

This participation strengthens the international relations and reputation of the Chinggis Khaan National Wealth Fund and is a strategic step in positioning Mongolia as a new investment destination.

It is worth noting that after the Parliament of Mongolia passed the National Wealth Fund Law in April 2024, specialized fund accounts have been opened at the Bank of Mongolia, with revenues from mineral resource royalties and government-owned mining company dividends as sources. Thus, the foundation of asset management policy has been laid and the system for implementing the law has begun to be established.

To align Mongolia's national wealth fund with international standards — ensuring transparent, sustainable, and independent asset management, benefiting both current and future citizens equitably, and creating a national-scale reserve — under Resolution 30 of the Parliament of 2024, the Government of Mongolia adopted Resolution 42 of 2025 and established Chinggis Khaan National Wealth Fund LLC on February 21, 2025.

Back to Table of Contents

Khaan Bank’s Gender Bond Initial Trading Successfully Closed, Raising ₮30 Billion

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The opening bell ceremony for the primary market trading of the Gender Bond, the first of its kind to be publicly offered in Mongolia's domestic capital market by Khaan Bank—the nation's largest commercial bank and industry leader in financial indicators—was held today at the Mongolian Stock Exchange. In 2023, Khaan Bank carried out the largest and most widely participated IPO in the history of the Mongolian stock market, becoming a public company. Since then, it has been listed in the first tier of the Mongolian Stock Exchange and steadily named among the TOP-20 index leaders.

Khaan Bank, holding a commitment to leadership in sustainable development as part of its core values, aims to increase financing dedicated to the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals by implementing a medium-term plan. In 2023-2024, the bank successfully issued Mongolia’s first-ever Green Bond domestically and internationally, and in 2024, it also issued the country's first Social Bond in international markets.

Now, with the aim of funding projects and programs promoting Sustainable Development Goal 5 (achieving gender equality) and Goal 8 (promoting decent work and economic growth), the bank has issued this Gender Bond. The raised funds will be allocated specifically to increase women entrepreneurs' access to finance, promote gender equality by creating secure jobs, and support women’s business activities, economic participation, and leadership.

The Gender Bond was offered with a three-year maturity, an annual interest rate of 16% paid every six months, and a face value of 100,000 MNT per bond, aiming to raise a total of 30 billion MNT. The order book successfully closed soon after the primary trading opened. Olzii and Co Capital LLC acted as the underwriter for the public introduction and first trading of the Gender Bond on the Mongolian Stock Exchange. KhaanLex Partners LLP served as the legal advisor, and PricewaterhouseCoopers Audit LLC was responsible for the financial audit.

We thank our esteemed investors for acquiring bonds from a leading, publicly traded company with robust financial indicators and for investing responsibly in projects and programs that support women entrepreneurs.

Harmonious Growth Together – Khaan Bank

Note: Media outlets (TV, Radio, Social, and Web pages) are prohibited from using our information partially or in full in any form. It may only be used with prior agreement by referencing the source (ikon.mn).

Back to Table of Contents

Imports Increased by 2.8 Percent

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

In the first six months of this year, our country imported goods and products originating from 140 countries. Of all imports, 38.1% came from China, 23.6% from Russia, 12.7% from Japan, 4.1% from the United States, 4.3% from South Korea, and 2.5% from Germany. Together, these countries accounted for 85.4% of total imports.

According to the General Customs Administration, during this period, goods and raw materials worth 5,528.2 million US dollars were brought in through imports. This represents an increase of 149.8 million US dollars, or 2.8%, compared to the same period last year. The growth was mainly influenced by the import of mineral products, wood and wooden products, machinery and mechanical equipment and parts, electrical appliances, and air and water transport vehicles.

Additionally, imports of prepared food products increased by 43 million US dollars, while imports of machinery, mechanical equipment and parts, electrical appliances and their spare parts grew by 6.5 million US dollars. In total, the import of goods in 16 categories increased. However, imports of mineral products decreased by 77 million US dollars, and imports of textiles and textile products dropped by 8.3 million US dollars.

Back to Table of Contents

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: news.mn

The State Audit Organization's financial performance report for the consolidated financial statements of the government and the 2024 budget execution was discussed and approved by the State Great Khural (Parliament) last week. In connection with this, the State Audit Organization provided information today. The Audit Organization has examined the financial statements of 6,832 budget governors under 61 main budget governors. The audit identified 2,364 discrepancies worth 27 billion MNT, for which payment orders were issued. Additionally, official warnings were delivered for 4,685 discrepancies totaling 7.5 trillion MNT. This has led to public doubts regarding the 7.5 trillion MNT discrepancy in the government's consolidated financial statements. The Chief Auditor of Mongolia, S. Magnai Suren, explained and clarified this situation.

He stated that there was a 5 trillion MNT accounting discrepancy and error in the State Treasury of Mongolia, which they have now corrected. Combined with other discrepancies stemming from this error, a total of 9.2 billion MNT in significant discrepancies was revealed. The audit also found discrepancies of 60 billion MNT, regarding which 151 warnings have been issued to 165 officials to ensure accountability. Moreover, 6,009 recommendations were provided for discrepancies totaling 1.6 trillion MNT. In addition, 26 discrepancies totaling 10.2 billion MNT, which may have criminal elements, have been forwarded to law enforcement authorities for further investigation.

The role of the State Audit Organization is to identify these discrepancies, ensure those responsible are held accountable, and take measures so that such discrepancies are not repeated in the future. The main goal is that the number and value of discrepancies found in previous audits should decrease in the following year. An intermediate audit will be conducted in August, to which special attention will be given.

Currently, the 7.3 trillion MNT tax issue is drawing public attention. On this topic: "The General Taxation Office found that, in the course of system audits by tax inspectors regarding tax revenue collection, potential criminal discrepancies totaling 7.3 trillion MNT have been forwarded to the legal authorities. For example, 3.9 trillion MNT related to 94 individuals who underreported income, inflated expenses, or reported fraudulent operations; 2 trillion MNT related to 56 businesses for similar issues – totaling 6 trillion MNT in discrepancies identified by the tax organization and submitted to law enforcement. Additionally, 950 billion MNT in discrepancies related to 17 companies that used fake e-receipts to reduce VAT were identified. Also, 855 billion MNT in discrepancies for 66 businesses that did not operate but input large numbers of electronic receipts to enable others to evade tax was discovered. Furthermore, 337.8 billion MNT in discrepancies for 44 companies and 600 million MNT for one individual believed to be connected to possible money laundering via online gambling were found. Altogether, these discrepancies total 7.3 trillion MNT."

These 7.3 trillion MNT in discrepancies are not related to state bodies, the government, ministries, budgetary organizations, or state and locally-owned companies. They stem from routine tax audits of individual entrepreneurs and legal entities operating private businesses.

Back to Table of Contents

News Guide: Information on the 'Gold 3' Program

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: news.mn

The News Agency presents a summary of some events scheduled for July 7, 2025.

10:00 am: The parliamentary groups of the MPP and DP will hold a meeting.

10:30 am: The Mongolian Civil Council for the Environment, the Association of Mongolian Environmental Protectors, and researchers will provide information at the National Information Center about the hidden shortcomings of the 'Gold 3' program.

10:30 am: The National Emergency Management Agency will give a joint briefing on forest and steppe fires, river and water accidents, and flooding.

11:40 am: The special exhibition "The Heritage of the Great Enlightened One in Visual Arts" will open at the G. Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts.

Back to Table of Contents

Report: Car Prices Have Increased by 1-2 Million MNT as the Festival Approaches

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: news.mn

Citizen Natsag's family is planning to visit "Altai Tavan Bogd" in Bayan-Ölgii province this year. However, as it is not feasible to travel over 1,500 km in a small car, the head of the household, Natsag, said that they had no choice but to look for a larger vehicle. This year, he scheduled his annual leave to coincide with the national festival, so together with his family, he is preparing to head to Bayan-Ölgii and is looking for a high-performance car at the "Dakhuree" car dealership. However, since the cars are more expensive than expected, he mentioned he would have to buy the car through a non-bank financial institution.

In recent years, people have stopped buying cars with cash. Most people now pay a 30-40% down payment and take out a loan from banks or non-bank financial institutions. Furthermore, even cars considered cheap such as "Prius-20," "Prius-30," and "Aqua" are valued at 18-32 million MNT and leasing has become increasingly common. It is no exaggeration to say the "Aqua" is the best-selling car at Dakhuree dealership. Most visitors come asking whether there is an "Aqua."

In 2024, 104,742 passenger cars were imported, which is a 71.7% increase from the same period last year; 24,632 trucks were imported, a 43.3% increase. The summer months are known as the “season” for car sellers at "Dakhuree." However, sellers said actual sales have decreased. For them, selling even one car a day is like seeing a rare star, and some days not a single car is sold. Sellers explained that even if they lower prices for interested buyers, because customers fail to meet the requirements of non-bank lenders, most sales do not go through.

For cars sold at "Dakhuree," an additional 1.5 million MNT is added if the buyer wants a "U" series license plate. If they opt out, the price is reduced accordingly. Cars over 10 years old cannot get a "U" series plate, so sellers import newer cars to pass customs inspection and sell them accordingly.

G. Togtokhbayar, a car seller at this dealership, is hoping that more customers will come to buy cars as the festival approaches. However, as of July 7, 2025, he has not sold any cars. Togtokhbayar says there are cars at Dakhuree dealership priced between 15 million and 200 million MNT. However, sales have sharply decreased in recent years, and even during the festival days, which is expected to be busy, it is no different from an average day. This reflects the poor financial situation. All the cars they sell have been fully inspected, each car comes with a Ulaanbaatar city registration number, and the price for the plate is between 1 to 1.5 million MNT.

Another seller noted that customers who come to look at cars often complain about high prices, but they do not artificially inflate the prices. They try to keep prices as low as possible. For "Prius-20" cars, the price ranges from 22-30 million MNT. The most-asked about "Aqua" car starts at 22 million. Every car's QR code can be scanned to get information. Sometimes prices can be negotiated. Buyers often offer their old car as a trade-in, but it is difficult to accept all of them.

A month ago, a "Prius 20" was priced at 18-20 million MNT but today it's 22-30 million MNT. These regular price increases before the festival, with no reduction afterwards, are causing customers to turn away from dealers. For the dealers, the current situation is also difficult, so keeping prices steady is essential. In any case, the clients at "Dakhuree" have not responded to the festival season, and this year's main purchases have declined due to the economic crisis.

Back to Table of Contents

Diplomacy

Streets and Roads to be Temporarily Closed During the State Visit of the Emperor of Japan to Mongolia

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

At the invitation of the President of Mongolia, the State Visit of the Emperor of Japan and the accompanying high-level delegation to our country will continue from July 6 to 13, 2025. During the visit, traffic on streets and roads such as Ikh Mongol Street, Olympic Street, Peace Avenue, Naadamchdyn Street, Chingis Avenue in the Khan-Uul, Sukhbaatar, Chingeltei, and Bayanzurkh districts will be temporarily restricted for security and management purposes.

Citizens are kindly requested by the Traffic Police Department to comply with the lawful instructions of police officers, respect others, observe traffic rules, and demonstrate courtesy in traffic participation.

Notice: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social, and Web pages) are strictly prohibited from fully or partially taking and using our information in any form unless agreed upon. In such cases, the original source (ikon.mn) must be cited.

Back to Table of Contents

Emperor Naruhito of Japan and His Wife Arrive in Mongolia

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

At the invitation of President U. Khurelsukh, His Majesty the Emperor Naruhito of Japan, along with Empress Masako, arrived in Mongolia yesterday at around 15:00. Minister of Foreign Affairs B. Battsetseg and other officials welcomed them. This is the first state visit to Mongolia by an emperor, although he visited previously as Crown Prince in 2007.

Diplomatic relations between Mongolia and Japan were established on February 24, 1972. That year, Mongolia opened its embassy in Tokyo, and Japan opened its embassy in Ulaanbaatar in 1973. Mongolia’s first President, P. Ochirbat, visited Japan in 1990. Since then, every president of Mongolia has visited Japan, the latest being President U. Khurelsukh, who paid a state visit in November 2022. During that visit, the two sides issued a joint statement aimed at developing a "Special Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity between Mongolia and Japan," and as an annex to the statement, they agreed on a 10-year program of action (2022-2031) for this partnership.

Japan’s 125th Emperor, Akihito, abdicated on April 30, 2019, and on May 1, 2019, Crown Prince Naruhito ascended the throne, marking the start of the "Reiwa" or “Beautiful Harmony” era in Japan. Since then, Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako made a state visit to Indonesia in 2023 and, in 2024, visited the United Kingdom at the invitation of King Charles III. Their visit to Mongolia is noteworthy as it is only the third state visit overseas since Naruhito became Emperor.

The official welcoming ceremony for the honorable guests will be held tomorrow at Sukhbaatar Square. The Emperor and Empress of Japan are scheduled to attend the opening ceremony of the National Naadam Festival as guests of honor and will observe traditional events such as archery and horse racing.

Additionally, due to the high-level visit, the Traffic Police Department has announced that from July 6 to 13, traffic will be temporarily restricted and controlled on Ikh Mongol Street, Olympic Street, Peace Avenue, Naadamchdyn Street, and Chinggis Avenue in the Khan-Uul, Sukhbaatar, Chingeltei, and Bayanzurkh districts.

Back to Table of Contents

State Visit: Coming to Mongolia as Emperor After 18 Years

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: gogo.mn

At the invitation of President U. Khurelsukh, the Emperor of Japan, His Majesty Naruhito, is making a state visit to Mongolia. Eighteen years ago, during this same time—July 10-17, 2007—he visited Mongolia in his capacity as crown prince.

The Emperor of Japan does not express positions on any matters and carries out symbolic and ceremonial activities.

According to Article 1, Chapter 1, titled "Emperor" of Japan's new Constitution enacted after World War II in 1946, "The Emperor shall be the symbol of the State and of the unity of the people."

The main role of the emperor in foreign relations is, as a symbol of Japan, to develop and expand friendly ties with other countries. The emperor's visits are called "symbolic diplomatic relations," and the following events are usually included in the program of such visits:

Meeting with heads of state (such as kings, presidents)
Taking part in official ceremonies and receptions
Becoming acquainted with the history and culture of the host country
Promoting Japanese culture and thus deepening mutual understanding between the peoples of both countries
Attending events related to Japanese culture and traditions
Meeting Japanese citizens residing in the host country
Giving lectures on Japan’s history and environmental issues
Participating in international conferences and academic symposia

The emperor's daily duties mainly consist of state affairs, official duties, ceremonies, and cultural activities. These include:

Ceremonies:
- State ceremonies (official duties stipulated in the Constitution)
- Ceremonies for the appointment of officials (such as ministers and judges)
- Ceremonies for receiving letters of credence from foreign ambassadors
- Medal and awards ceremonies
- Other ceremonial events

Official activities and meetings:
- Hearing reports from ministries, agencies, and related organizations
- Signing and attesting official documents
- Receiving guests (including state and sectoral representatives)
- Meeting domestic and foreign guests (in accordance with state visit protocols)
- Participating in celebrations and ceremonial events
- Attending academic and cultural functions (lectures, museum exhibitions)

Current affairs activities:
- Participating in the opening ceremony of Parliament
- Addressing the people on New Year's Day
- Spring and autumn garden parties at the Imperial Garden
- Traveling to regional areas
- Visiting disaster-stricken areas to offer support and encouragement to the people
- Participating in cultural and sports activities

Japan and Mongolia established diplomatic relations on February 24, 1972. In that year, Mongolia opened its embassy in Tokyo, and in 1973, Japan opened its embassy in Ulaanbaatar.

Since 1997, the relationship between the two countries has developed into a comprehensive partnership, a strategic partnership since 2010, and from 2022, a "Special Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity."

According to information from March 2024, the Government of Japan has provided Mongolia with 123.4 billion yen in grant aid, 182.9 billion yen in concessional loans, and 56.5 billion yen in technical cooperation since 1977, totaling 362.4 billion yen (3.3 billion USD) in loans and assistance.

Back to Table of Contents

PHOTO: His Majesty the Emperor Naruhito of Japan Visiting the 'Genghis Khan' Museum

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: gogo.mn

His Majesty the Emperor Naruhito of Japan is visiting the Genghis Khan National Museum today. The distinguished guest is being welcomed by the museum's director, academician S. Chuluun, and other officials.

At the invitation of the President of Mongolia, Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, His Majesty the Emperor Naruhito and Her Majesty Empress Masako of Japan are visiting Mongolia. The state visit will take place from July 6 to 13. This is the first state visit to Mongolia for Their Majesties Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.

Within the framework of the visit, the President of Mongolia U. Khurelsukh and His Majesty the Emperor Naruhito of Japan will hold an official meeting to discuss strengthening friendly relations and deepening the friendship between the peoples of the two countries.

Back to Table of Contents

Japanese Emperor Naruhito Learns About the "Gachuurt Source" Project

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

At the invitation of President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh of Mongolia, His Majesty Japanese Emperor Naruhito, who is on a state visit to Mongolia, was introduced to the activities of the "Gachuurt Source" project. His Majesty was received by the head of the Ulaanbaatar Water Supply and Sewerage Authority, Ts. Turkhüü, who provided a detailed overview of the project's operations.

Within the scope of Japan's official development assistance grant, the "Central Water Source Station Equipment Modernization Project," aimed at supplying potable water to 40% of Ulaanbaatar’s population, was implemented from 1997 to 2006. The "Equipment Renovation and Improvement Project" at the Upper Source Station was also carried out from 2004 to 2006.

As a continuation of these projects, the new "Gachuurt Source" project was implemented in the 20th khoroo of Bayanzurkh District with a grant of 30 million USD from the Government of Japan between 2011 and 2014. This project enabled 390,000 residents of ger districts and 43,500 residents of apartment buildings in Ulaanbaatar to access clean and safe drinking water.

The "Gachuurt Source" has become a significant infrastructure development, providing potable water to the ger district areas of Khailaast, Chingeltei, Doloon Buudal, Dari-Ekh, and Dambadarjaa, and playing an important role in the redevelopment and construction efforts of these zones.

Back to Table of Contents

PHOTO: His Majesty Emperor Naruhito of Japan visited the Chinggis Khaan National Museum

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The photograph was used with the special permission of MPA Agency. His Majesty Emperor Naruhito of Japan, who is on a state visit to Mongolia at the invitation of the President of Mongolia Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, visited the Chinggis Khaan National Museum.

His Majesty Emperor Naruhito was welcomed by Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg, Minister of Culture, Sports, Tourism, and Youth Ch. Undram, and the Director of the Chinggis Khaan National Museum, S. Chuluun, who introduced him to the heritage of Mongolian history and culture.

The two parties signed an exchange note for the project "Improvement of Educational Equipment for the Chinggis Khaan National Museum," implemented through the Japanese government's official development assistance grant aid. Under this project, equipment such as Braille printers, 360-degree and 3D camera sets, VR devices, and live streaming cameras is being provided to improve museum experiences and make exhibits accessible to people with disabilities and those living in remote rural areas.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, six Mongolian historical artifacts and relics, including a copy of the Golden Paiza of Chinggis Khaan preserved in its original form in Japan, a hand-drawn image depicting Yuan dynasty military campaigns, a world map created in the era of Kublai Khaan, letters from Kublai Khaan’s envoys, a Yuan dynasty military general’s seal, and a model of a Yuan dynasty ship, have been brought as replicas to be exhibited for public viewing.

Note: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social media, and Websites) are prohibited from using our information in full or in part in any form without consent, and may only use it by specifying the original source (ikon.mn) with permission.

Back to Table of Contents

Infrastructure

This Year, Projects to Reduce Road Congestion, Improve Public Transport, and Lower Air Pollution Will Be Implemented in the Capital

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Governor of the Capital City and Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, Kh. Nyambaatar, together with T. Munkhdalai, the manager of the Ulaanbaatar Metro Project, today received a delegation led by Karl E. Yeh, Director of Public Sector Relations for Asia-Pacific at JP Morgan Chase, the project's primary financial institution and coordinator.

During the meeting, Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar said, "This year, the capital city is implementing projects to reduce road traffic congestion, develop diversified forms of public transportation, and lower air pollution. These include major infrastructure works, such as the Tuul expressway, the ring road, tramway, and metro line, for which international open tenders are being gradually announced. As JP Morgan has been selected as the main financer and coordinator bank for the Ulaanbaatar Metro project, I am confident that we will cooperate to secure funding going forward."

Karl E. Yeh, Director of Public Sector Relations for Asia-Pacific at JP Morgan Chase, stated that they will provide all possible support and cooperation to strengthen bilateral collaboration.

The Government of Mongolia has declared 2025 as the "Year of Supporting Urban Infrastructure Development" and is accelerating the implementation of major development projects aimed at improving the city's air quality, environment, road traffic, and enhancing citizens' quality of life.

Work related to securing the necessary funding for building a large-capacity public transport metro system in Ulaanbaatar is actively ongoing.

It should be noted that JP Morgan, selected as the primary financer and coordinator bank for the Ulaanbaatar Metro project, is a major international bank headquartered in the United States, specialized in raising financing for metro, airport, and other large-scale urban infrastructure projects in cities around the world within the framework of ECA guarantees. The bank has, as of April this year, been evaluating the capital city's financial statements for the past three years, analyzing relevant Mongolian laws and regulations, and working on actively raising funds for the Ulaanbaatar Metro project on international markets.

Back to Table of Contents

Three Companies Selected for the Selection of Private Partner for TPP-5 Project, Including Shunkhlai Holding and China Western Power Industrial

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

In Bayangol district, 20th khoroo, at the location of the former ash storage site in front of Thermal Power Plant No.2, a new TPP-5 thermal power plant with a capacity to generate 340 Gcal of heat and 300 MW of electricity is planned to be constructed. In this regard, the capital city announced the pre-selection for a private sector partner to establish a partnership agreement for the design, budgeting, construction, operation, and transfer of the TPP-5 project. Out of eight domestic and foreign enterprises that officially expressed their intent to participate, four submitted proposals.

The pre-selection among these four participants was organized in accordance with the Law on Public-Private Partnerships, procedures for selecting private sector partners and consulting services approved by Annex 2 of Government Resolution No. 210 of 2024, and related documents. The following three participants met the requirements and were included in the shortlist:

"Shunkhlai Holding" LLC
"MiTime International" LLC
"China Western Power Industrial" LLC

The participants received documents for the next stage of the selection process today and are expected to prepare and submit their project proposals within 30 days, according to the Press Division of the Capital City Governor’s Office.

From this selection, "Pan-China Construction Group" JSC was disqualified.

Notice: Media organizations (TV, radio, social and web pages) are prohibited from fully or partially using our information in any form, except by prior agreement and by citing the original source (ikon.mn).

Back to Table of Contents

Representatives of the UK's Crossrail International Arrive in Ulaanbaatar to Conduct Studies Along the Metro Line

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

A delegation led by Paul Dyson, CEO of Crossrail International Ltd, the strategic advisor for the Ulaanbaatar Metro Project from the United Kingdom, has arrived in Ulaanbaatar. The company's representatives are in Mongolia to participate in the Economic Forum, work on Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) plans around proposed metro stations, and conduct field studies along the planned metro line.

Today, they exchanged ideas with the mayor about the financing, progress, and upcoming joint initiatives for the Ulaanbaatar metro project. Crossrail International has confirmed its strategic advisory role, and representatives from the UK have reiterated their intent to collaborate on project finance and export support.

JP Morgan Bank, which has been selected as the primary financier and coordinating bank for the Ulaanbaatar Metro Project, is a major international bank headquartered in the US specializing in ECA-guaranteed financing for metro and airport infrastructure in cities worldwide. Since April this year, JP Morgan has been actively involved in evaluating the city's financial reports for the past three years, reviewing Mongolia's relevant laws and regulations, and working to secure international finance for the metro project. Karl E Yeh, Director of Government Relations for the Asia Pacific region at JP Morgan Chase Bank, has visited Ulaanbaatar and stated, “We are pleased to fully support and cooperate to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in the future.”

Currently, a detailed environmental and social assessment for the metro project is underway. Construction is scheduled to begin in March 2026, with preparatory work—including site preparation, logistics, and receiving equipment from abroad—expected to start this autumn.

The planned metro line will stretch 19.4 kilometers from Tolgoit to Amgalan, with 15 stations and a depot. Of these, 14 stations over 19.1 kilometers will be underground, and one station will be at ground level, according to officials. Once operational, the metro will run 19 trains, each with six cars capable of transporting over 17,000 passengers during peak hours, and trains will run at intervals of 270 seconds.

A total of 27 domestic and international companies have submitted bids for the first phase tender to build the Ulaanbaatar metro at an estimated cost of 8 trillion MNT.

Note: Media organizations (TV, radio, social media, and websites) are prohibited from using our information in whole or in part in any form except with agreement and must cite the source (ikon.mn) if used.

Back to Table of Contents

Passenger Traffic in Mongolian Air Transport Increasing by 10 Percent

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: news.mn

The Asia-Pacific Air Transport Facilitation Forum is being organized in Ulaanbaatar on July 7-8, 2025. This forum is notable as it coincides with the 75th anniversary of the adoption of Annex 9 of the Chicago Convention and the 100th anniversary of the founding of civil aviation in Mongolia. Mongolia is hosting over 100 representatives from 39 member states in the region in Ulaanbaatar to strengthen the national program and committees for air transport facilitation, deepen cooperation in border and customs control, introduce new technologies such as artificial intelligence and automation, and support a safe, efficient, and interconnected air transport system over two days.

E. Törbayar, Director of the Civil Aviation Authority of Mongolia (CAA):

"Since 2021, Mongolia has had a new international airport. We provide services according to international standards. We now use electronic gates. At the international level, we employ facial recognition systems that allow us to check passengers without causing inconvenience by using as much automation as possible. By organizing this international forum in our country for the first time, we are learning from the experiences of other countries and discussing how to operate smart international airports, cooperate, and implement advanced technologies.

In Mongolia, a passenger spends on average 30-60 minutes. There are many services that are invisible to passengers. Especially this year, to fly to the USA, it is necessary to obtain separate agreements and certificates with the International Civil Aviation Organization. By meeting international standards in aspects such as transit capacity and passenger safety, flights to the USA become possible."

"PASSENGER TRAFFIC IN MONGOLIAN AIR TRANSPORT IS INCREASING BY MORE THAN 10 PERCENT ANNUALLY"

S. Munkhnasan, Head of the CAA Directorate of Supervision, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Internal Audit:

"Today, in cooperation with the International Civil Aviation Organization, we are organizing the Air Transport Facilitation Forum in Ulaanbaatar. Passenger traffic in Mongolian air transport is increasing by more than 10 percent annually. To accelerate this growth nationally and regionally, and to further facilitate air transport services—especially customs and border services—the International Civil Aviation Organization has been actively involved in recent years. More than 100 representatives from 39 countries are attending the Asia-Pacific Forum.

Simply put, we are studying how to increase the speed at which passengers enter and exit airports, use modern technology and artificial intelligence, provide state inspection services more quickly and safely, and save time. In recent years, international airports have introduced self-service registration and sophisticated technological devices that conduct remote health screening for passengers. This also fits into ensuring the security of air transportation. The government inspection authority has made major investments. Since 2021, Mongolia has begun using a new international airport, which can accommodate up to three million passengers annually. In 2024, we served a total of 2.2 million passengers, and in the first half of 2025, this figure has increased by 13 percent. According to studies by international organizations, by 2040, global air passenger traffic is expected to increase by 86 percent. Therefore, this forum is focusing on how international airports can cope with this growth."

"AIR TRANSPORT MUST BE SAFE, AND PASSENGER INFORMATION SHOULD BE PRE-SHARED"

L. Mönkhtüshig, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs:

"The Government of Mongolia, in cooperation with the International Civil Aviation Organization, is organizing the Asia-Pacific Regional Forum on Air Transport Facilitation. There is the Chicago Convention, which governs the world's air transport sector, with 196 members worldwide. For Mongolia, a landlocked country, issues such as becoming a bridge connecting to other countries or serving as a transit country are being discussed. The Asia-Pacific region is the largest in the international air transport sector, so Mongolia has taken the initiative to organize this forum.

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the adoption of Annex 9 to the Chicago Convention and the 100th anniversary of the founding of civil aviation in Mongolia. There is a wealth of information behind the term "air transport facilitation." For example, air transport must be safe, and passenger information must be shared in advance. All regulations related to issuing electronic visas are conducted within this legal framework for the air transport sector. Thus, Mongolia's leading role and learning from the Asia-Pacific region is very important."

"PREVENTING THE USE OF FORGED PASSPORTS AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING"

Ma Tao, Director for the Asia-Pacific Region, International Civil Aviation Organization:

"First of all, I would like to congratulate Mongolia on the 100th anniversary of its civil aviation sector. I thank the Government of Mongolia and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This April, we organized the global forum on air transport facilitation, and now, in July, we are holding the regional forum for Asia-Pacific in Mongolia. The main goal of this forum is to facilitate the movement of passengers. We are discussing and cooperating on exchanging information between all aviation companies and civil registry agencies more smoothly and quickly.

Facilitating air transport, by joining a unified database containing the passport information of all countries, prevents forgery and illegal use of passports and also helps prevent human trafficking and illegal migration."

Back to Table of Contents

The Tram Project's Feasibility Study Approved by the Road and Transport Ministry's Science and Technology Council

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Science and Technology Council of the Ministry of Road and Transport discussed and supported the feasibility study (FS) for the I and II lines of the "Ulaanbaatar Tram" project. Previously, this FS had been reviewed and endorsed by the Ministry’s Railway Sub-Council and examined by its Development Center. Now, it is being approved step-by-step by professional councils.

The "Ulaanbaatar Tram" project is planned to be implemented in two directions in the capital city. The first line will run from the Resort area (Zunjin Market) to Sukhbaatar Square, while the second is planned to go from the General Archive Office to Sukhbaatar Square. The first line, which is a type of urban light rail transit, will be 11 kilometers long with double tracks and will have a total of 16 stops. The second route will be 15 kilometers long, also with double tracks, and will have 23 stops in total.

The "Ulaanbaatar Tram" project is a fully electric (eco-friendly) high-capacity public transportation system, which is significant for reducing road congestion and decreasing air pollution caused by car emissions. With the implementation of these two lines, it is estimated that the average speed of road traffic will increase by 25.7%.

Tram systems in many cities worldwide operate in conjunction with other high-capacity public transport systems such as subways, BRT (Bus Rapid Transit), and regular buses.

According to the Ministry of Road and Transport Development, highly populated countries continue to modernize and upgrade their tram systems, making them smarter and more automated.

Back to Table of Contents

Society

Transwest Mongolia LLC Selected as an International 'Great Place to Work' for the Third Year in a Row

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Transwest Mongolia LLC has successfully met the criteria for becoming an international "Great Place to Work," as determined by the Great Place to Work organization, which operates in 97 countries worldwide, for the third consecutive year. The company was officially certified as an internationally accredited "Great Place to Work." The results of the survey were compiled by administering over 60 questions to employees, evaluated using international research methodology, and benchmarked against average indicators for Mongolia and Asia, resulting in a report recognized internationally.

Since 2009, Transwest Mongolia LLC has been operating in the sales, spare parts, and maintenance services sector for Komatsu brand mining equipment. It has implemented policies that provide discounts and benefits not only to employees but also to their family members. Over 16 years, the company has distinguished itself with various indicators such as supportive and developmental policies for its staff, a unique organizational culture, and an exceptional work environment. With these accomplishments, it has become one of the internationally recognized "Great Places to Work."

Company website: www.transwest.mn
Facebook page: Talents at Transwest Mongolia LLC

Notice: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social, and Web pages) are prohibited from partially or fully using our information in any form without agreement. Usage is only allowed with permission and by citing the source (ikon.mn).

Back to Table of Contents

Disaster Protection Capacity Will Increase by Learning from Japan's Experience

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency, Major General G. Ariunbuyan, met today with the leaders of Japan's "Sabo Frontier Foundation" and representatives from the University of Tsukuba. The purpose of the meeting was to initiate relations and cooperation with these organizations and to organize joint activities in disaster risk management and prevention in the future.

During the meeting, Major General G. Ariunbuyan emphasized that the Emergency Management Agency has had close and effective cooperation with relevant Japanese organizations for many years and underscored the importance of learning from Japan's experiences, given its frequent natural disasters and accidents, to enhance Mongolia's disaster protection capacity. He also stressed the need to invite specialists from these organizations to Mongolia, involve a wide range of personnel, and provide the opportunity for them to study Japan's knowledge and methods for overcoming disasters.

Ms. Miki Chiba, Deputy Head of the First Division of the Sabo Frontier Foundation’s Research Department, and Dr. Professor Taro Uchida, Head of the Environmental Doctoral Program at the University of Tsukuba, along with their training team, will conduct a training course for staff responsible for disaster planning and prevention at the Emergency Management Agency, following the Japanese disaster protection training curriculum.

This training, which will last for two days in Ulaanbaatar, will provide theoretical and practical knowledge on disaster risk management, prevention, recovery planning, and inter-organizational collaboration. As a result of the training, the staff will have the opportunity to improve their knowledge and skills in areas such as creating situational reports and organizing command and staff exercises.

Back to Table of Contents

One of Our Country's Two Citizens Imprisoned in Kyrgyzstan Entered the Country Illegally, the Other Was Wanted by Interpol

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

At today's session of the Standing Committee on Legal Affairs, the draft agreement "On the Transfer of Offenders Between Mongolia and the Kyrgyz Republic" was discussed. In connection with the matter under discussion, the Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs, L. Munkhbaatar, provided the following information:

"As of the first quarter of 2025, our country has established a total of 40 agreements and treaties with 22 foreign countries regarding legal assistance. Of these, agreements on the transfer of offenders have been concluded with 16 countries, including Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Turkey, North Korea, South Korea, Vietnam, India, and China. Eleven agreements regulating the transfer of convicted persons are currently in force, and we are preparing to establish agreements with Thailand and Malaysia."

On average, about 50 civil legal assistance requests from citizens are processed yearly, while about 20 mutual criminal legal assistance requests are received annually. Each request is resolved by negotiation between the two relevant countries. The Minister stated that there are currently 33 requests related to the transfer of convicted persons, and both sides are working to resolve these.

Of these, 27 requests are from Mongolian citizens serving sentences in China, and six are from Chinese citizens serving sentences in Mongolia. Between 2009 and 2023, a total of 19 citizens have been transferred from China to Mongolia under the prisoner transfer agreement.

The Minister noted that, due to increased movement of citizens between Mongolia and the Kyrgyz Republic, the current agreement is being reviewed and clarified in more detail. In the past three years, a total of 3,037 Mongolian citizens have travelled to the Kyrgyz Republic, while 4,362 Kyrgyz citizens have visited Mongolia. More than 150 Mongolian citizens are working and residing in the Kyrgyz Republic, while 75 Kyrgyz citizens are living in Mongolia for purposes such as work and study.

Currently, one Mongolian citizen is serving a prison sentence in the Kyrgyz Republic for illegally crossing the border, and another is detained under an Interpol notice. Furthermore, as part of the cooperation between the judicial and law enforcement agencies of the two countries, in the past period, Mongolia has transferred one Kyrgyz citizen wanted by Interpol to Kyrgyzstan in 2024, while Kyrgyzstan has transferred two Mongolian citizens to Mongolia.

Note: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) are strictly prohibited from using our information in whole or in part in any form, except by prior agreement and with attribution to the source (ikon.mn).

Back to Table of Contents

The Amendment to the National Naadam Festival Law Will Foster National Unified Values

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

In Ulaanbaatar, the Great Khural (Parliament) of Mongolia, during its session on July 3, 2025, finalized and adopted the draft law to amend the National Naadam Festival Law, which was initially submitted to Parliament on June 23, 2025 by Member of Parliament B. Jargalan and 40 other members. This law has come into effect from that day.

With this amendment, the law now stipulates that the anniversaries of the establishment of the first state, the foundation of the Great Mongol Empire, the National Liberation Revolution that restored Mongolia's independence, the People’s Revolution, and the Democratic Revolution will all be celebrated in conjunction with the national Naadam festival.

The amendment officially establishes in the law that, along with the anniversaries of the foundation of the Great Mongol Empire and the People’s Revolution, the anniversaries of the founding of the first state, the National Liberation Revolution, and the Democratic Revolution shall be recognized as part of the National Naadam Festival. The initiators of the bill believe that this will allow the National Naadam Festival, which embodies the nation’s independence, sovereignty, unity, statehood, history, culture, heritage, and traditions, to fully express its meaning and foster the development of unified national values.

Back to Table of Contents

KHUVSGUL: Over 100 Foreign Tourists Attend the “Tsaatan Festival-2025” Cultural Heritage Event

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

To expand the scope of tourism in Khovsgol aimag and promote the culture of the Tsaatan people to the world, the "Tsaatan Festival" cultural heritage event, traditionally organized every year, took place on July 6 and 7 at the tourist camp of the "Montreval" company located on the shores of Lake Khovsgol. The festival is aimed at disseminating and popularizing the unique lifestyle, customs, and traditions of the Tsaatan people, who continue to live in Mongolia’s northern region and preserve their heritage, including the shamanistic traditions of the Darkhad and Tsaatan. Additionally, the event aims to improve the livelihoods and increase the income of local residents. This year marks the 21st time the festival has been held. About 100 foreign tourists came to attend the festival this year. Notably, a team from Hong Kong's Viu television prepared a documentary about the Tsaatan heritage.

During the event, various competitions and games such as Mongolian wrestling, reindeer relay races, women's sumo wrestling, and tug-of-war were held. Visitors had the opportunity to get acquainted with the lifestyle of the Tsaatan people, take photos, and create unforgettable memories. The number of reindeer, which have become the sixth type of livestock in Khovsgol province, has been declining. To illustrate, while 2,931 reindeer were counted in 2023, by the end of last year, the number had decreased by 5.7%, or 166 animals, to 2,765. According to the 2020 national population and housing census, in Khovsgol aimag's taiga area, 189 Tsaatan people in 123 households make their living herding reindeer.

Back to Table of Contents

Environment

About 20 percent of forest and steppe fires are detected by satellite data, and measures are taken accordingly

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

According to information from the MPA Agency, a report was received that dry grass caught fire in the Shar Kholoin Valley, 33rd subdistrict of Bayanzurkh District, yesterday, July 6. The fire had spread to the forested area, but emergency workers managed to extinguish it.

During a briefing to raise awareness about fire hazards, Lieutenant Colonel P. Soronzonbold, head of the Fire Fighting Department of the National Emergency Management Agency, stated: "Although the official dry season has ended by law, the reality is that dryness in nature remains high and hazardous. Despite ongoing warnings to the public, the number of incidents is not decreasing due to negligence. About 20 percent of forest and steppe fires are detected by emergency services daily through satellite information, and measures are taken immediately. Although it has been reported that there will be rain in most areas in the coming days, officers have informed us that no rain has fallen in the fire-prone regions."

Warning:
Media organizations (television, radio, social, and web pages) are prohibited from using our information in any form, either fully or partially, except by agreement and with attribution to the original source (ikon.mn).

Back to Table of Contents

U. Tungalag: 12% of the Territory of Our Country Has Become Desertified Beyond Natural Recovery

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: gogo.mn

U. Tungalag, Executive Director of "Zoological Society Luujin"

In Ulaanbaatar, the "4th Meeting of the Working Group on Dryland Forests, Agriculture, and Pastoral Systems" as well as the "Dryland Summer School" are currently taking place.

The events are jointly organized by the Presidential Office, the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, the Forestry Agency, and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and will run from June 7 to 10.

We are living in a critically important time that necessitates special attention to the situation in dryland areas and the livelihoods of the millions who live there.

Mongolia's natural conditions are characterized by vast steppes, pastures, and forest ecosystems. Given that 76% of our land is currently affected by desertification and land degradation, the working group's focus on resilient and sustainable land use, integrated forestry and pastoral systems, and the creation of stable sources of income and livelihoods is said to closely align with our national priorities.

Mongolia is actively contributing to these global efforts. This includes:

The national "Billion Trees" movement aimed at forest restoration and reducing land degradation;
Initiatives to support sustainable rangeland policies under the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (IYRP);
The declaration of 2025 as the "Year of Women in Agriculture," highlighting the role of women in the sector;
A commitment to protect 30% of total land area by 2030—aligned with global nature conservation targets.

The training involves participants from nature conservation and the media sector. During the event, U. Tungalag, executive director of "Zoological Society Luujin," gave a presentation on Mongolia's dry regions.

She stated, "About 30% of the world's land is drylands. Of these, 65% are classified as extremely dry or arid. In areas with normal moisture, agriculture is possible, while the rest are considered rangeland or grassland. Basically, the majority of Mongolia can be classified as rangeland.

However, it is unfortunate news that 12% of our country's total land has become irreversibly desertified, losing its natural state and unable to recover on its own.

Although all land is state-owned, in reality, the owners are the local residents and herders who operate there. Therefore, it is absolutely necessary to improve cooperation and partnerships between government decision-makers and the local citizens who use the land."

Marcelo Rezende, natural resources officer at the FAO's Forestry Division, added: "The meeting at the UN headquarters on the protection of dryland forests is an important event that sets the direction for environmental policy in those regions. The working group meeting on agriculture and rangelands is intergovernmental—established based on the collective will of countries—and aims to unify intergovernmental dialogues and enhance mutual understanding.

The purpose of this summer school is to share experience on implementing decisions made by participating countries—especially on sustainable land use in drylands, the dissemination of knowledge and information, and policy implementation and guidance, as well as capacity building.

There are two main levels of processes here: policy development, and an implementing level where real issues in execution are discussed. Ensuring the connection between these two levels is important.

Issues in dryland regions, especially grassland ecosystem problems, often go unnoticed by the public. While global attention focuses on Amazonian forest fires, fires and land degradation in the steppe do not garner the same concern. Yet these steppes are the source of livelihood for millions, providing the water, food, and essential economic lifeblood directly dependent on the stability of these areas.

Therefore, it is necessary to continuously and frequently disseminate information through the media to highlight the importance of drylands, explain natural systems, and ecosystem balance, and raise public awareness, thus influencing decision-makers too.

For instance, the dryland ecosystem is the most vulnerable to climate change. For countries with arid climates like Mongolia, this must be a central issue. Thus, bringing attention through both international and domestic media—stressing that "Mongolia is giving special attention to desertification and land degradation, beginning to take action and make changes"—is crucial.

But the issue should not be confined to the environmental sector; it is a broad matter affecting society, the economy, and agriculture as a whole. Land degradation is linked to everything from the milk we drink and the meat we eat to the clothes we wear. This is why the Mongolian government needs to address the issue inclusively, with all stakeholders involved, demonstrating its focus as part of the international "Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists."

The main aim of the meeting and training is to modernize the food and agriculture systems of drylands, develop integrated agrosilvopastoral management for sustainable management, restoration, and climate adaptation, and discuss agricultural-forestry cooperation, regional collaboration, and the importance of international and cross-sectoral partnerships.

This event is attended in-person by over 50 representatives from 15 countries, including members states of the UN Forestry Commission, experts and researchers from regional and international organizations, and policy-makers. The meeting is also held online, allowing participation from another 30 delegates who could not travel in person due to ongoing global conditions.

Back to Table of Contents

"We are not a poor country that has to dig up our protected lands"

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Mongolian Environmental Civil Council has expressed its position in relation to the "Gold-3" program.

As a result of the "Long-named law" passed in 2009, Mongolia has placed 21% of its territory under special protection. The policy document "Vision 2050" sets the target of expanding this to 30% by 2030.

However, representatives opposed the initiative under the soon-to-be-implemented "Gold-3" program, which suggests reducing the size of protected areas and altering their boundaries, thereby retreating from this goal.

Civil society representatives emphasized that any attempt to change the status of specially protected areas for mining violates the Constitution, the Law on Environmental Protection, and Mongolia's obligations under international conventions.

"While countries around the world are adopting policies to expand protected areas, Mongolia is instead talking about limiting them. Some research even suggests we can expand it to 33%. Yet, we cannot decrease protected area land for mining purposes."

The provision to change boundaries under the "Gold-3" program would open the way for the use of any land associated with gold and mining in the future. This creates the risk of turning Bogd Mountain into a settlement zone or using the Toson Bumby area for grazing or infrastructure development.

"With 1.5 million km², Mongolia ranks 19th globally in terms of land area. It is a sparsely populated country with two people per square kilometer. While 80% of the land is available for use, insisting on excavating the 20% under protection is a desperate policy."

The Council especially demands the following:

Elevate the Ministry of Environment to a policy-making ministry
Do not include any legislative provision that would diminish the area or change the boundaries of protected areas for mining purposes
The President, Parliament, and Government must present a unified stance on environmental protection
Do not abandon the goal, stated in "Vision 2050," of making 30% of the country's territory specially protected by 2030

"Will we leave our dried-up rivers, desertified land, and a $30 billion debt to future generations?" Researchers and civil society organizations remind us that instead of sacrificing the environment for mining and pretending it is development, we should seek long-term, sustainable, and environmentally friendly development pathways.

Back to Table of Contents

Innovation

Attention for Drone Operators

Published: 2025-07-07 | Translated from: news.mn

During the celebrations of the 2234th anniversary of the founding of the State, the 819th anniversary of the Great Mongol Empire, the 114th anniversary of the restoration of national freedom and independence, the 104th anniversary of the People's Revolution, and the National Naadam Festival, the following airspace zones will be actively regulated:

Government Palace (permanently)
Ikh Tenger Complex (permanently)
Central Stadium (from July 11th to 12th, 2024)
Khui Doloon Khudag (from July 11th to 12th, 2024)

Therefore, organizations, institutions, enterprises, and citizens are advised not to fly drones or unmanned aerial vehicles in the above-mentioned areas. Owners of drones who enter these zones without permission will be held responsible according to the Civil Aviation Regulations and Article 14.12 of the Law on Offences, and will be required to compensate for any damages caused due to forced landing.

Source: www.ais.mn/ntmNtm

Back to Table of Contents

Today's Stories

Politics

Economy

Diplomacy

Infrastructure

Society

Environment

Innovation

Politics

The Draft Resolution Granting Permission to Issue Government Debt Guarantee Submitted to the Parliament

If H. Battulga Pushed Out the Investor of "Gatsuurt Deposit" from Mongolia, L. Munkhbayasgalan May Be Delaying and Waiting for Changes to the Law Requiring 34% Be Given to the State

N.Uchral: We will adhere to the principle of granting 50+1 percent ownership of derived deposits to the state and the people

26 Suspected Criminal Offenses Worth MNT 10.2 Billion Have Been Transferred to Law Enforcement for Investigation

Ts. Naranchimeg: There are still issues of misappropriating budget funds

The MPP and DP Parliamentary Groups to Convene

151 Official Requests Issued for 165 Officials with 60 Billion MNT Audit Violations

Kh. Nyambaatar: All Ads Saying 'Khuushuur Permit for Sale' Will Be Forwarded to the Criminal Police and Anti-Corruption Agency for Investigation

Economy

IMF: Post-Recovery Risks in Mongolia's Economy Are Growing, Policy Reforms Needed

Coal Export Revenues Expected to Decrease by 13-30 Percent

The Economic Forum Begins Tomorrow Morning

Exports Decrease by 16.1 Percent

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to Increase Investments

N.Uchral: Budget Revenue Fell Short by 3.3 Trillion MNT

The 'National Wealth Fund' Joins the International Wealth Funds Institution as a Member

Khaan Bank’s Gender Bond Initial Trading Successfully Closed, Raising ₮30 Billion

Imports Increased by 2.8 Percent

The 7.3 Trillion MNT Discrepancy Is Not Related to the Government or State Agencies

News Guide: Information on the 'Gold 3' Program

Report: Car Prices Have Increased by 1-2 Million MNT as the Festival Approaches

Diplomacy

Streets and Roads to be Temporarily Closed During the State Visit of the Emperor of Japan to Mongolia

Emperor Naruhito of Japan and His Wife Arrive in Mongolia

State Visit: Coming to Mongolia as Emperor After 18 Years

PHOTO: His Majesty the Emperor Naruhito of Japan Visiting the 'Genghis Khan' Museum

Japanese Emperor Naruhito Learns About the "Gachuurt Source" Project

PHOTO: His Majesty Emperor Naruhito of Japan visited the Chinggis Khaan National Museum

Infrastructure

This Year, Projects to Reduce Road Congestion, Improve Public Transport, and Lower Air Pollution Will Be Implemented in the Capital

Three Companies Selected for the Selection of Private Partner for TPP-5 Project, Including Shunkhlai Holding and China Western Power Industrial

Representatives of the UK's Crossrail International Arrive in Ulaanbaatar to Conduct Studies Along the Metro Line

Passenger Traffic in Mongolian Air Transport Increasing by 10 Percent

The Tram Project's Feasibility Study Approved by the Road and Transport Ministry's Science and Technology Council

Society

Transwest Mongolia LLC Selected as an International 'Great Place to Work' for the Third Year in a Row

Disaster Protection Capacity Will Increase by Learning from Japan's Experience

One of Our Country's Two Citizens Imprisoned in Kyrgyzstan Entered the Country Illegally, the Other Was Wanted by Interpol

The Amendment to the National Naadam Festival Law Will Foster National Unified Values

KHUVSGUL: Over 100 Foreign Tourists Attend the “Tsaatan Festival-2025” Cultural Heritage Event

Environment

About 20 percent of forest and steppe fires are detected by satellite data, and measures are taken accordingly

U. Tungalag: 12% of the Territory of Our Country Has Become Desertified Beyond Natural Recovery

"We are not a poor country that has to dig up our protected lands"

Innovation

Attention for Drone Operators

You might also like...

Mongolia News Summary for July 07, 2025

Mongolia News Summary for July 06, 2025

Mongolia News Summary for July 05, 2025

Mongolia News Summary for July 04, 2025

Mongolia News Summary for July 03, 2025