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

• Events: Press Conference at the Constitutional Court Regarding the Proposal to Divide Ulaanbaatar into 14 Cities
• Government discussing amendments to the Criminal Code
• INTRODUCTION: Noteworthy Provisions Included in the Draft Law to Divide Ulaanbaatar into Cities
• Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education, Culture, Science and Sports: Resolution Adopted to Provide Direction to the Government Based on the Results of the Working Group's Oversight Inspection
• 70 Percent of Complaints Received by the Anti-Corruption Agency Are Related to Criminal Offenses and Improper Budget Spending
• LIVE: Hearing Underway on Whether to Appoint S. Magnaïsureng as Director of the Audit Office Despite Unresolved Development Bank Case
• Breaking News: Some Charges Against O.Munkhjin and B.Gantig Regarding Coins Dropped, Case Forwarded to Court
• Trial of Health Insurance Fund Officials for Bribery and Money Laundering Postponed
• A Hearing Was Held With the Nominee for the Position of Auditor General of Mongolia
• The Standing Committee Meeting Will Discuss the Chief Auditor's Report Behind Closed Doors Today
• The Constitutional Court Should Stop Kh. Nyambaatar’s Madness of Turning Ulaanbaatar into 14 Cities

Economy

• Yuan Exchange Rate Reaches 501 Tugriks
• Discussions Held on Collaboration Opportunities within the "White Gold" Movement
• Petition Initiated to Reduce VAT to 5 Percent and Abolish Lottery System
• Position: "Businesses Have Stopped Looking for Profit"
• Mongolbank Purchases One Ton of Precious Metals
• Visible and Hidden Taxes Are Making Citizens "Crawl"
• S. Tsenguun: In Just a Few Months, 24 Billion MNT Worth of Products Have Been Ordered from Mongolia Through China's Temu Online Store
• NOTICE TO BONDHOLDERS
• Khuns Group's 'Khuns Complex' LLC Wins Gold and Silver Medals at IFFA 2025 International Exhibition
• Proposal to Reduce Personal Income Tax to One Percent under Discussion
• Startup 'Primer' Company Fined and Director Given Suspended Sentence
• V.Oyuumaa: There is evidence that over 210 companies and individuals who rented municipal property have left MNT 310 million in debt

Diplomacy

• O.Altangerel: Special attention will be paid to the security of diplomatic missions and international organizations operating in Mongolia
• President U. Khurelsukh to Discuss Electricity and Energy Issues with V. Putin During 'Victory Day' Visit, Russian Media Reports
• President U. Khurelsukh Arrives in Moscow to Attend Victory Day Celebration

Infrastructure

• A Joint Audit Conducted on the Operations of Ulaanbaatar Railway
• "Neocity" Becomes the First Residential Project in Mongolia to Receive US Green Building's LEED Certification
• Orkhon Province Defines Its Development Vision Until 2036
• VS: Will There Be Power Outages This Coming Winter in Ulaanbaatar or Not?
• FACT: Kh. Nyambaatar Introduces "Paid Zone" Law Through R. Erdeneburen, Plans to Establish New 'Unit with 215 Officers' to Monitor Vehicles Entering the Zone
• DARKHAN-UUL: Experts Presented Experiences on Earthquake-Resistant Private Housing
• Road closure and asphalt paving from 25th Pharmacy to Grand Plaza intersection
• This year, the intersections at Wrestling Palace, 25th Pharmacy, and Tsetseg Center will be renovated
• Today, electricity will be cut off in some areas of Bayanzurkh, Songinokhairkhan, and Khan-Uul districts
• KHUVSGUL: It is Impossible to Travel Towards Galt, Shinee-Ider, and Jargalant Soums

Society

• Bureaucratic Index of Public Services Shows Improvement
• There have been 2,155 disaster and accident calls this year, resulting in 80 deaths
• Mongolia Ranks 104th out of 193 Countries in Human Development Index
• Monaco ranked as the country with the least stress; Mongolia ranks 106th
• VIDEO: Driver Who Hit a Child on a Bicycle and Fled the Scene Will Face Criminal Charges
• Tomorrow, a Vote Will Be Held on How to Spend the ₮25 Billion Collected for the Children's Fund

Environment

• N.Uchral: A Citizens' Oversight Council Will Be Established to Monitor Uranium Exploration and Mining
• N.Uchral: We will discuss the demands received from civil society organizations and provide timely information on uranium mining technology
• SELENGE: 221 Hectares Burning in Yeruu Soum

Innovation

• The “IELTS CENTRE-NUM” English Language Proficiency Testing Center Opens at NUM
• NUM Opens English Proficiency Testing Center

Health

• S. Odontuya: We will establish a laboratory that meets international standards for radiation measurement and analysis
• The National Center for Communicable Diseases Reports 1,410 Laboratory-Confirmed Measles Cases
• Health Screening and Educational Counseling Event to be Organized

Sports

• 'Ulaanbaatar on Wheels-2025' Event to Be Held on Saturday

Arts

• Mongolian Taste, Mongolian Quality Once Again Proclaimed to the World

Politics

Events: Press Conference at the Constitutional Court Regarding the Proposal to Divide Ulaanbaatar into 14 Cities

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

At the State Palace
09:30 am
A regular meeting of the Government will be held. At the library of the Chinggis Khaan National Museum
11:00 am
The opening ceremony for the book "Glimpses of the East: Representations of Mongolians in the Photographic Collection of László Földes" will take place. The book compiles photographs taken by the Hungarian ethnographer László Földes during his ethnographic field research travels in Mongolia in 1967. At the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA)
11:00 am
NEMA will give a briefing on disasters, accidents, and the current situation regarding forest and steppe fires in Mongolia. At the 9th floor of Ministers Tower
12:00 pm
Hosts from NBA, U. Uchral, UureeMMP, will introduce the implementation of the "Khairtai" (Beloved) project. Shark O. Tenuun, Hut Talk host Chinzo, D. Davaadorj (presidential advisor), Choi. Tsogtbayar, artist Tsogtbayar, and other guests will participate. Outside the Constitutional Court Building
12:00 pm
Citizens D. Uurtsaih, T. Zolboot, and Ts. Lut-Ochir will hold a press conference at the Constitutional Court regarding the proposal to divide Ulaanbaatar into 14 cities. Notice:
Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social and Web pages) are strictly prohibited from fully or partially using our information in any form without permission; it can only be used when an agreement is made and the original source (ikon.mn) is cited.

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Government discussing amendments to the Criminal Code

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: news.mn

The regular cabinet meeting is scheduled to take place every Wednesday. At today's meeting, the draft Law on Procurement (revised version of the law on procurement of goods, works, and services with state and local government property) was discussed, and the groups considered it appropriate to incorporate the suggestions from business organizations and to submit it next week. In continuation, 21 matters are being discussed, including the draft government resolution "On certain measures to ensure public oversight and participation in uranium exploration and mining activities," the government's comments and conclusions on the draft law on management of communal property of residential and non-residential buildings (revised version), initiated and developed by Member of Parliament O. Nomintsetseg, the government's comments and conclusions on the draft law on amendments to the Criminal Code initiated by Member of Parliament Kh. Temuujin, and the draft government resolution "On establishing the Water Project Unit" (Orkhon-Ongi, Kherlen-Toono projects) among others.

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INTRODUCTION: Noteworthy Provisions Included in the Draft Law to Divide Ulaanbaatar into Cities

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: news.mn

Member of Parliament J. Aldarjavkhlan submitted to the Speaker of the State Great Khural, D. Amarbayasgalan, a draft law to amend the Law on Urban Development. In line with the State Great Khural's approved "Vision-2050" long-term development policy and the "New Revival Policy" concerning urban and rural revival, the objective of this draft law is to ensure citizens' rights to live in a healthy, safe, and comfortable environment and to optimally plan and control access to hospitals, schools, and kindergartens by establishing a renewed legal framework for new urban development in settlement areas. The law includes several notable provisions, such as dividing the capital into cities, converting provincial centers into cities, allowing citizens to directly elect both local parliament (ITK) and city mayors, and resolving issues with citizen participation. The draft law mandates that general and sectional plans for towns and villages must strictly comply with legal requirements. As a result, the Citizens’ Representational Khural of aimags (provinces) and the capital will have clear legal authority to monitor and approve these plans for compliance. Specifically, in the planning of any city or settlement within an aimag or the capital—and particularly in planning new residential districts—there are new requirements prioritizing access to kindergartens and schools. For every 250 households, there should be at least one kindergarten, and for every 1,000 households, at least one public school. These requirements have been newly added and revised in the law's content. The revised draft specifically states: Article 1: In the Law on Urban Development (Revised), Section 12, Article 12.6.4 is added as follows: "12.6.4. For every 250 households, plan at least one kindergarten; for every 1,000 households, plan at least one public school." Article 2: In the Law on Urban Development (Revised), Article 8.1.1 and Article 9.1.4 will now require planning to comply with the requirements set forth in Article 12.4, 12.5, and 12.6 regarding urban and village master and sectional plans; Article 9.1.1 will now require monitoring and reporting; in Article 12.4.1, the calculation for accessibility to hospitals, schools, and kindergartens will be added; and in Article 12.5, access to such facilities will also be considered. Following these changes, corresponding amendments will be made to the Law on Construction. Article 1 of the Law on Construction: Article 27.3.4 will be added, stating that “if not in compliance with the urban and village master and sectional plans as per Article 12.4, 12.5, and 12.6 of the Urban Development Law.” Article 2: Amend Article 7.1.3 to require compliance with the requirements set in Article 12.4, 12.5, and 12.6 of the Urban Development Law. Article 3: In Article 12.1.1, before "authorized organization," add “the relevant master and sectional urban and village plans as per Article 12.4, 12.5, and 12.6 of the Urban Development Law.” Article 4: These laws take effect from the date the amendments to the revised Urban Development Law are enacted. Members have criticized the lack of public awareness regarding the revised law. The conceptual explanation for the amendment is also attached here. The main implication of this updated law is not to immediately divide Ulaanbaatar into 14 separate cities but to facilitate faster and more efficient public service delivery, improve the relationship and participation between the state and citizens, and ensure practical realization of the "20-minute city" concept.

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Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education, Culture, Science and Sports: Resolution Adopted to Provide Direction to the Government Based on the Results of the Working Group's Oversight Inspection

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: isee.mn

At today’s session of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education, Culture, Science, and Sports, the following were on the agenda: a draft resolution to amend the composition of the working group, secondly, a report on the implementation of decisions of Parliament assigned by law and resolution, and thirdly, a draft resolution to provide guidance to the Government based on the outcome of the working group's oversight inspection. At the start of the session, MP D. Regdel proposed changing the order of discussion to consider the Standing Committee's draft resolution first, while MP D. Erdenebat suggested postponing the discussion of changes to the working group’s composition. The majority of committee members supported these proposals. The session began with the discussion of the draft resolution instructing the Government of Mongolia to take action, based on the results of the working group’s oversight inspection, to support the replacement of pit latrines at state-owned general education schools, kindergartens, and dormitories with modern sanitary facilities that meet contemporary standards and requirements. MPs D. Regdel and G. Khosbayar offered comments related to the draft resolution. Specifically, MP G. Khosbayar proposed clarifying the ownership of sanitary facilities in rural areas and assigning responsibility for operating costs to a specific ministry. MP Ch. Undram noted that the standing committee’s working group had visited and observed the replacement efforts at schools, kindergartens, and dormitories in four provinces firsthand, underscoring the need to urgently adopt and implement the timely guidance provided in the draft resolution. The majority of members participating in the vote supported the draft resolution, and the Standing Committee's resolution was adopted. Following this, the session considered the report on the implementation of Parliamentary resolutions assigned by law and regulation. This report was presented by the Minister of Mongolia and Chairman of the National Committee for Oversight and Evaluation, E. Odbayar. He stated that of the Parliamentary and standing committee resolutions recorded in the electronic oversight and evaluation database, 569 (36.7%) are “fully implemented,” 390 (25.2%) are “in the process of implementation,” 224 (14.5%) are “inadequately implemented,” and 196 (12.6%) are “not implemented.” For 170 provisions, implementation could not be evaluated as the reporting period had not yet elapsed. The average implementation rate is 66.4%, an increase of 3.8% compared to the previous year. Of a total of 481 legal provisions recorded in the electronic database, 69 (14.3%) have not been implemented; out of 624 parliamentary resolution provisions, 80 (12.8%) are unimplemented; and out of 445 standing committee resolution provisions, 44 (9.9%) are unimplemented. In total, 193 out of 1,550 (12.5%) legal and resolution provisions have not been implemented. The four resolutions of the Standing Committee on Education, Culture, Science, and Sports, comprising 25 provisions, have an average implementation rate of 67.9%, meaning they are "in the process of being implemented." The report also noted that some decisions assigned to the government by parliamentary and standing committee resolutions were not promptly forwarded to the Cabinet Secretariat, impacting their registration and oversight in the electronic system. Related organizations frequently failed to compare the results achieved with previous reporting periods, reporting incomplete or inaccurate information, duplicating prior year reports, or providing unrealistic self-assessments. The report recommended that relevant organizations work to fully implement assigned decisions within a short time, enhance internal oversight, ensure that each decision assigned to the government by Parliament and standing committee resolutions is promptly forwarded to the Cabinet Secretariat, and, based on oversight and evaluation results, remove from the government's oversight system a total of 519 provisions that are either fully implemented, no longer relevant, invalid, re-decided, or obsolete. The report proposed submitting this removal for approval. Commenting on the report, MP G. Damdinyam emphasized that as the highest state body, Parliament must fully monitor, evaluate, and judge the implementation of every law, resolution, and decision it adopts. He disagreed with the conclusion to remove 519 provisions from government electronic oversight and suggested postponing the discussion of the implementation report of the parliamentary decisions assigned by law and regulation. The majority of members participating in the standing committee agreed with this suggestion, and it was decided to postpone the discussion of the matter indefinitely, according to the Parliamentary Press Office.

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70 Percent of Complaints Received by the Anti-Corruption Agency Are Related to Criminal Offenses and Improper Budget Spending

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The Research and Analysis Department of the Anti-Corruption Agency received 50 petitions and complaints from citizens and legal entities between April 28 and May 2, 2025, and forwarded them to the relevant departments based on their jurisdiction. It is reported that 70.0 percent of the received petitions, complaints, and information had indications of criminal offenses. Among these, complaints related to the misuse of budget funds were predominant. During the past week, the special anti-corruption hotline 110 received 168 calls.

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LIVE: Hearing Underway on Whether to Appoint S. Magnaïsureng as Director of the Audit Office Despite Unresolved Development Bank Case

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: isee.mn

Within the scope of his authority, Speaker of Parliament D. Amarbayasgalan has nominated S. Magnaïsureng for the position of Director of the National Audit Office. We previously reported that the primary court will soon examine the case related to the Development Bank involving him and make a final determination on guilt or innocence. The hearing to dismiss D. Zagdjav from the position of Chief Auditor of Mongolia and to consider the appointment of S. Magnaïsureng is currently taking place at the State Palace.

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Breaking News: Some Charges Against O.Munkhjin and B.Gantig Regarding Coins Dropped, Case Forwarded to Court

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: isee.mn

A preliminary hearing regarding the case involving O. Munkhjin, Director of Operations, and B. Gantig, Executive Director of "Ikh Bit" LLC, was held at the Sukhbaatar District Primary Criminal Court. After the hearing, the court returned the case to the prosecutor's office. Specifically, during the preliminary hearing, the court sent the case back for further investigation, noting possible serious violations of the Criminal Procedure Law. According to sources, the prosecutor has again issued an indictment against O. Munkhjin and B. Gantig, forwarding the case to the court. The Capital City Prosecutor's Office charged O. Munkhjin and B. Gantig, of "Ikh Bit" LLC, under Articles 18.19, sections 2.1 and 2.2 of the Criminal Code—that is, "illegal use of internal information of virtual asset service providers, committed in a group and by abuse of official position." Previously, the Capital City Prosecutor's Office had alleged that the two conspired to commit a crime by using undisclosed internal information that could affect the value of certain coins, trading coins through their own and related persons' accounts, laundering money, making false statements to mislead the public, and misusing trade operations in the virtual asset service provider's activities. Under these allegations, they had been charged under Article 18.19, sections 2.1 and 2.2 (illegal use of internal information of virtual asset service providers), Article 18.6 (money laundering), and Article 18.20 (misuse of trade in virtual asset service provider's activities), and the case was sent to court. However, when the case was returned from the primary court, the prosecutor dropped the money laundering and misuse of trade accusations against these individuals and forwarded the case to the court under only two counts. This has drawn public attention. In any case, after spending some time in pre-trial detention and being accused of causing financial loss to many people, some charges against O. Munkhjin and B. Gantig have been dropped, and indictment under two articles remains. Article 18.19 of the Criminal Code. Illegal Use of Internal Information of Virtual Asset Services:
2.1. If committed as a group;
2.2. If committed by abusing official position,
the punishment is imprisonment for a period of two to eight years.

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Trial of Health Insurance Fund Officials for Bribery and Money Laundering Postponed

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The trial to determine the guilt or innocence of L. Byambasuren, A. Tuvshin, B. Nominsuvd, S. Undram, and D. Bayanjav, officials and specialists who held positions at the Social Health Insurance General Office (SHIGO), who are accused of receiving bribes from private hospital management, was scheduled to take place yesterday at the criminal district courts of Bayangol, Khan Uul, and Songinokhairkhan. However, the defense lawyers R. Bulgamaa, B. Baljidmaa, and G. Chinzorig submitted a request supported by relevant documentation to postpone the hearing, as they were unable to attend due to other court sessions coinciding. The judicial board considered this request and postponed the hearing to 8:30 a.m. on the 30th of this month. Additionally, defense attorney S. Bolorchuluun proposed that the trial be held behind closed doors. However, the state prosecutor and the supervisory prosecutor from the National Prosecutor's Office, G. Onon, expressed that according to the law, the trial must be held openly except during discussions about secret investigative operations, in which case the session may be closed, but the rest should be public. According to Article 12.2.2 of the revised and currently enforced Law on Courts (2021), "courts shall hold trials openly, and may broadcast live on the court's website or through media or public social networks as stipulated by this law and relevant legal procedures, or may make recordings available to the public," and Article 12.7.2 states that "hearings for first and appellate courts on corruption crimes must be open and transparent to the public." Also, the Law on Criminal Procedure stipulates that hearings may only be held in closed session to protect state secrets, as well as the rights and legal interests of juvenile victims, witnesses, suspects, and defendants, and when reading out the testimony of protected witnesses or examining evidence obtained during secret investigative operations. Therefore, to grant the request by defense attorney S. Bolorchuluun to hold the entire trial behind closed doors would be a violation of the law. Thus, the judicial panel decided to address this issue in the next session without resolving it at this time. Former SHIGO director L. Byambasuren, Complaint Supervision Department head A. Tuvshin, specialists B. Nominsuvd, S. Undram, D. Bayanjav, and certain officials from various hospitals—O. Aigiimaa, O. Munkhtulga, S. Tsedensodnom, P. Altantuya, T. Ariuntuya, and T. Ankhtuya, totaling 11 people—are accused of illegally spending the funds from the Social Health Insurance Fund, receiving and giving bribes in exchange for granting others undue benefits. Specifically, it is alleged that SHIGO specialist B. Nominsuvd received bribes amounting to about 100 million MNT from T. Ariuntuya, CEO of "Nandin-Ukhaan" Hospital, which operates in various diagnostic and treatment fields (internal, traditional, neurological, ophthalmological diseases, ultrasound, clinic, and biochemical laboratory diagnostics), and from T. Ankhtuya, director of "Gegeen Manal" Hospital, who is a relative of T. Ariuntuya, and arranged for the Social Health Insurance Fund to pay for the services of more than 1,000 people. It is further alleged that this money was shared among A. Tuvshin and L. Byambasuren.

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A Hearing Was Held With the Nominee for the Position of Auditor General of Mongolia

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The Standing Committee on Budget of the State Great Khural held a hearing with the nominee for the position of Auditor General of Mongolia. The hearing began with an attendance rate of 52.0%. According to the Standing Committee's Resolution No. 8 dated April 23, the nominee hearing was scheduled for this date. Member of Parliament G. Damdinnayam was elected as the chair of the hearing and was tasked with organizing it. Thus, the hearing was chaired by G. Damdinnayam, who introduced the procedures for the hearing and the nominee for the position of Auditor General of Mongolia. The nominee, Sandag Magnaysuren, was born in 1975 in Jargalan soum, Govi-Altai province. He graduated with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the School of Law at the National University of Mongolia. From 1997-1999, he worked as a teacher and department head at “Ulaanbaatar Erdem” College. Between 1999-2000, he was an assistant to a Member of Parliament at the Secretariat of the State Great Khural, and between 2000-2005 served as an adviser. From 2005-2006, he was the head of the Governor's Office of Sukhbaatar district; in 2006-2007, adviser to the Minister of Food and Agriculture; in 2007-2008, department head at the Ministry of Finance; from 2008-2013, Secretary General of the Secretariat of State Great Khural; in 2015, Secretary General of the Ministry of Labor; from 2015-2023, Secretary General of the Ministry of Construction and Urban Development; and in 2023-2024, Secretary General of the Ministry of Mining and Heavy Industry. During the hearing, citizens and representatives of civil society organizations asked questions and made remarks. For example, T. Amarzaya, director of the NGO “Mongolian Youth Alliance,” inquired about how the nominee would work together with civil society organizations that request audits, and what stance he would take on ensuring the independence of the state audit agency. In response, the nominee stated that, when selecting audit topics, he would prioritize issues affecting the interests of citizens and those topics awaiting a response. He would also consider public recommendations, select topics accordingly, and have them discussed and approved by the Standing Committee on Budget. Thus, such issues will be addressed. He emphasized that the main principle of the audit’s independence is essential for its true function. When the Law on State Audit was adopted in 2000, the issue of independence was legislated at a high standard. He considers the legal environment for independence to be well-established. Then, J. Sainzaya, executive director of the public-serving NGO "Unen Khatamzh," noted the commendable aspect of considering citizens' proposals for audit topics, and asked what measures would be implemented to make the annual recommendations given to budget projects more effective. Nominee S. Magnaysuren answered that in 2024, the audit agency issued 9,629 recommendations, of which 75.2% have been implemented, showing there is a need to focus on the implementation of decisions. The hearing continued with questions and comments from members. MPs D. Purevdavaa, T. Aubakir, R. Batbold, Kh. Gankhuyag, J. Batjargal, D. Batbayar, B. Zayaabal, J. Bayasgalan, Z. Mendsaikhan, G. Ganbaatar, and D. Batlut asked questions and offered remarks. For instance, MP D. Purevdavaa inquired about the principles that will be followed to ensure the independence of operations from politics and how audit openness will restore public trust in government, while MP T. Aubakir asked the nominee's opinion on the need for the audit agency to focus on compliance audits alongside financial and performance audits. Nominee Magnaysuren responded that the independence of the audit is at the core of its operations. He noted that the Constitutional amendments in 2019 provided a foundation for the independence of the audit agency, which led to a revised Law on State Audit in 2000. Therefore, the law’s main purpose is to ensure legal conditions for the independence of audit, and under current conditions, the state audit agency can operate independently. All legal provisions for independent operation have been met, allowing for work free from influence from political parties and other entities. He also highlighted that, if appointed by Parliament and as an official entrusted with this responsibility, transparency and openness in auditing is crucial, and going forward, the emphasis should be on identifying and minimizing risks, rather than just addressing violations and damages. He explained that, as required by law, three types of audits are performed: financial, performance, and compliance audits. As society and the economy develop and budgets expand, the function of auditing is increasing. Currently, financial and performance audits are conducted alongside compliance within the law, and it is important to focus on, and ensure, effective compliance audit implementation. Members supported nominating a person with long experience in government and the ability to work independently of politics for the position of Auditor General. They also warned that unless there is a thorough approach to improving the competence and expertise of chief budget managers and financial specialists of public and state-owned organizations, violations and losses will not decrease. Additionally, they called for initiative to address the issue of state-owned companies continuing operations despite adverse audit conclusions and demanded proactive legal enforcement. Proper implementation of recommendations issued following qualified opinions in financial audits has improved, but they asked for enhanced accountability for performance and compliance audit recommendations, along with greater scrutiny of the efficiency of budget-funded projects and programs. If legal and regulatory improvements are needed, they asked for close cooperation with the Standing Committee on Budget. MP and hearing chair G. Damdinnayam noted Article 133.1 of the Standing Orders of Parliament: "Within two working days after a candidate hearing, the members who participated in the hearing shall meet in closed session and decide by majority vote on the hearing report. The report will include an assessment of whether the nominee meets the requirements for the position, rationale for the assessment, and any other relevant information." He thus announced the completion of the hearing with the nominee for the position of Auditor General of Mongolia. The meeting to draft the hearing report continued behind closed doors, according to the State Great Khural's Media Department.

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The Standing Committee Meeting Will Discuss the Chief Auditor's Report Behind Closed Doors Today

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: isee.mn

At the Wednesday session of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Budget, and the Thursday meeting, the appointment and release of the Chief Auditor of Mongolia will be discussed. Specifically, D. Zagdjav will be released from the position of Chief Auditor of Mongolia, and S. Magnaisuren will be appointed to the position. D. Zagdjav was appointed as Chief Auditor on May 30, 2024. Now, the Chairman of Parliament D. Amarbayasgalan has nominated S. Magnaisuren to be appointed in his place. The National Audit Office reports to Parliament, and its leadership is nominated and appointed by the Speaker of Parliament. The hearing for the candidate for the position of Chief Auditor and the report on the candidate's hearing are scheduled to be discussed at the Standing Committee meeting behind closed doors.

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The Constitutional Court Should Stop Kh. Nyambaatar’s Madness of Turning Ulaanbaatar into 14 Cities

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Citizens D. Uurtsaykh, T. Zolboot, and Ts. Lut-Ochir held a press conference today regarding their appeal to the Constitutional Court over the plan to divide Ulaanbaatar into 14 cities. Citizen D. Uurtsaykh stated: “According to the Constitution, the authority to independently resolve the economic and social issues of a given territory belongs solely to representatives of the people and local self-governing bodies. With the 2019 Constitutional amendments, a clause was introduced allowing for the transfer of certain powers of local leadership and citizen assemblies to city and village administrations. Using this as a pretext, they are now trying to abolish the Citizen Assembly altogether. This makes it meaningless to organize elections for the Citizen’s Representative Assembly, to pay those elected, and to gather them in halls, since citizens themselves will no longer have the ability to discuss and independently decide on issues concerning their locality. This is an initiative started by City Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar and parliament member J. Aldarjavkhlan. They claim the new Cities and Villages Law will decentralize rights within the capital, but in reality, all city powers will be concentrated in the capital. The Constitutional Court must stop Kh. Nyambaatar’s madness. If Ulaanbaatar is divided into 14 cities, there will be no land or population left in some areas. Who will then enforce government leadership there? And what would happen if the various regulations and measures contradict each other? I have spoken many times about this before, but nothing clear was decided, and now they have passed it in one go.” Citizen T. Zolboot noted: “This law violates the following provisions of the Constitution. Article 57: 1. The territory of Mongolia, administratively, is subdivided into aimags and the capital, aimags into soums, soums into bags, the capital into districts, and districts into khoroos. 3. Issues of changing administrative and territorial units shall be resolved by the State Ikh Khural based on Government proposals, considering economic structure, population distribution, and following the opinion of local citizens. Was any opinion from citizens sought?” “Districts without income will not be able to provide social services if they become cities”, mentioned citizen Ts. Lut-Ochir. “For example, if Bayankhoshuu and Tolgoit become separate cities, what would their source of income be? In fact, these areas have no major businesses operating and thus have no revenue. If divided into cities, they won’t even be able to cover the cost of landscaping and services. That means citizens there will not receive social services. Instead of improving, people’s lives will worsen and costs will increase. In essence, this will only deepen the gap between the rich and the poor. The high-income Zaisan district will no longer share its income with other districts, making Zaisan a district for the rich and leaving the other areas as slums for the poor. Society will become polarized, with districts viewing each other as enemies. Kh. Nyambaatar claims this will save costs, but in reality, it will not; costs will only rise. The rich will get richer, the poor will get poorer.” Notice: Media organizations (TV, radio, social media, and web pages) are prohibited from using our information in whole or in part in any form. If used by agreement, the source (ikon.mn) must be cited.

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Economy

Yuan Exchange Rate Reaches 501 Tugriks

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

While the US dollar's exchange rate has continuously strengthened since the beginning of this year, now reaching 3600 tugriks, the yuan's rate has surpassed 500. According to the official rate set by the Bank of Mongolia yesterday, one yuan was equivalent to 491.21 tugriks, but at commercial banks it reached 498.5, and on the foreign exchange market, it hit 501 tugriks. At "Naiman Sharga" (currency market), brokers were buying yuan for 497 to 498.5 tugriks yesterday, selling it at a price 1.5 to 4 tugriks higher. The yuan's exchange rate reaching 501 tugriks is 32.39 tugriks (6.9%) higher than the same period last year, and 25.33 tugriks (5.3%) higher than at the beginning of this year. As Mongolia imports about 40% of its goods and products from China, the strengthening of the yuan impacts the country more than other currencies. Economists warn that this could worsen living standards, increase the price of essential goods, and reduce profits in the trade sector.

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Discussions Held on Collaboration Opportunities within the "White Gold" Movement

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

B. Davaadalai, Economic Policy Advisor to the President of Mongolia, recently met with Professor Dr. Behzat Oral Bitlisi, Professor Dr. Huseyin Ata Karavana, Dr. Ersin Onem, and Dr. Ali Yorganjioglu from the Leather Engineering Department at Ege University, Republic of Turkey, to discuss possibilities for collaboration within the framework of the "White Gold" movement. Turkey is a global leader in the development of the leather and textile industries. In particular, the faculty members of the Leather Engineering Department at Ege University regularly provide consulting services to factories, parks, and treatment plants, and constantly conduct research at the international level. With the support of the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TÜBİTAK), the participants of the meeting noted that there is full potential for cooperation in developing Mongolia's light industry sector. It was also mentioned that Mongolian youth who have successfully graduated from the Leather Engineering Department at Ege University have returned home and are making significant contributions to the sector. Furthermore, the Turkish representatives expressed their readiness to cooperate further by providing scholarships for Mongolian students to study in the Leather Engineering and Textile Engineering departments at Ege University, organizing short-term training for factories in wool, cashmere, leather, textiles, and footwear sectors, improving the quality of raw materials, and introducing environmentally friendly processing technologies.

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Petition Initiated to Reduce VAT to 5 Percent and Abolish Lottery System

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: isee.mn

Citizen O. Ariunzaya has started an online petition on the D-petition website, claiming that returning 2 percent of the already paid 10 percent Value Added Tax (VAT) and organizing a lottery serves no real purpose. She stated, "VAT places a burden on businesses. Less government intervention in the economy will lead to recovery. At the very least, please reconsider even the main taxes." Therefore, she proposed to reduce the VAT to 5 percent. As of today, 2,744 people have signed to support this proposal. https://petition.parliament.mn/Detail?id=85d11c00-3117-4cbc-be20-b213c03b8bc6

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Position: "Businesses Have Stopped Looking for Profit"

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: news.mn

This time, we present the views of business representatives on the issues faced by businesses in their operation. BUSINESSES HAVE STOPPED LOOKING FOR PROFIT
D. Tugsjargal, Director of "Agni" LLC: "Our company processes animal hides and produces finished products. The most burdensome thing in our operations is VAT. Value-added tax is not income received in advance. That is the biggest burden. A company pays income from selling its products. For leather processing factories, VAT is levied. Then we use raw materials to make products. Then we pay VAT again. Value-added tax is the tax that should be reduced the most. It's a big hassle. Since 2025, two leather processing businesses have declared bankruptcy. People starting new businesses now try to avoid VAT and operate individually. This policy, in turn, puts pressure on businesses. For example, if we participate in an exhibition or trade fair, individual sellers there can sell their goods at slightly lower prices because they don't pay VAT. Meanwhile, businesses operate legally, pay VAT and other taxes, so they can't lower their prices. In such cases, citizens criticize national producers for being too expensive. Also, some major stores do not pay VAT. Furthermore, there are places that pay slightly higher salaries but do not pay social insurance. For business owners, profit is no longer the goal. They just take out loans and think about how to pay their employees. Loans are taken, and salaries are paid with those loans. That's the stagnant situation we're in. Regarding social insurance, there are things that need improvement. A citizen working at an organization pays personal income tax and social insurance contributions and, upon retirement, receives a lower pension than those who pay high social insurance premiums individually and do not pay personal income tax. This means that even after years of paying personal income tax and social insurance, there is no real benefit. It is right for both organizations and individuals to pay social insurance contributions. Because a person working at a business pays part of the social insurance, and the business pays the other part, which is an advantage over those paying individually. If the organization did not pay its share, no one would want to work there. Therefore, either the organization’s or the individual's social insurance contributions should be reduced. Alternatively, personal income tax could be collected from individuals while the organization pays the social insurance. If a business considers its own interests, most would prefer not to pay social insurance. So, for the sake of the country and workforce, it's right to pay half the social insurance. As for VAT, it should be reduced, and all businesses operating like small stalls or home productions should pay VAT. Social insurance, however, should be made more accessible and beneficial in practice." "AS A MANUFACTURER, WE PAY 13.5% SOCIAL INSURANCE CONTRIBUTION" Citizen D. Bat-Erdene has a physical disability. He started with his family in the early 2000s doing sewing work. He says, "Since 2007, we've been doing handicraft activities, and since 2010, we established Moritkhas LLC and had more than 10 employees. We created the 'Moritkhas' brand in 2010, and six years later it became a formal business named Moritkhas LLC. The reason for becoming a company was when the VAT law was passed, which required only legal entities to conduct business, not individuals. At the time, we didn’t understand all the implications and just changed our status to a business. Since then, we've continued as Moritkhas LLC, paying all social insurance and VAT. We try to provide jobs for people with disabilities. We pay all required insurances and contributions the same as ordinary citizens; there are no exemptions. We used to have more than 10 employees, but now we only have three. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, it has become difficult. Sales have dropped, and it's become hard to pay salaries. The burden of social insurance and taxes is heavy for small businesses. As a manufacturer, since there is risk of workplace injury, we pay 13.5% social insurance contribution."

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Mongolbank Purchases One Ton of Precious Metals

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The central bank purchased 1,097.1 kilograms of precious metals last month. Since the beginning of the year, it has bought a total of 3.3 tons of precious metals, which is 22.1 percent less than the same period last year. The Darkhan-Uul province branch of Mongolbank has bought 126.5 kilograms since the start of the year, while the Bayankhongor province branch has purchased 511.3 kilograms of precious metals. Additionally, the average buying price for gold last month was 364,736.61 tugrik.

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Visible and Hidden Taxes Are Making Citizens "Crawl"

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

Mongolians are few in number. A third of the total population are children, and an equal number live on welfare. The remaining just over 30% have to work hard, supporting their parents’ pensions and paying for the medicine and treatment of the sick and afflicted through their taxes. However, year after year, the money earned by the “working class” is increasingly seized and siphoned by the government in both overt and covert forms, leaving people destitute, and demotivating young people to work or even wish to live here. What can be done? The government accumulates taxes from citizens’ net income, purchases, and payments both openly and secretly. For example, the table below shows how much tax Dorj, with an average salary of 1.8 million MNT, pays. Today, in our country, there are basically no services or purchases free from taxes or fees. The government “shakes down” citizens’ wallets whenever it wants, scooping up everything they have. While people talk about reducing the percentage of social insurance premiums and the 10% income tax (personal income tax), do you know that we are continuously being drained by hidden taxes every single day? The direct deductions from salary, such as social insurance (11.5%) and personal income tax (10%)—a total of 21.5%—are just "the beginning.” When you add the employer’s contribution of 12.5-14.5%, the tax burden rises to 24-26%. This is the amount extracted monthly from workers’ and employers’ salaries as taxes and withholdings. However, our government doesn’t truly consider these as taxes. Citizens are led to believe a certain portion of social insurance is saved up for health and pension, to be used in the future. Paying the personal income tax is already legalized as necessary. The public has consistently paid these direct, legally prescribed taxes. The frustration comes from the ever-increasing types of indirect or hidden taxes, which have become a blatant form of theft by the state, especially as people’s livelihoods, small businesses, services, and other activities are being destroyed. Taxpayers, in addition to mandatory social insurance and personal income tax, also pay VAT (value-added tax) on every purchase. There are also the 10% tax on interest income from savings, the 0.6-2% fee on real estate, fees for land use, road usage, various vehicle-related taxes, and more. There’s also the excise tax that most people aren’t even aware of, which is charged on fuel and the purchase of vehicles. Alcohol, spirits, and tobacco are also taxed this way. In short, experts say citizens pay 21.5% of their salary in withholdings, and a similar amount in hidden payments and fees every month. In some months, such as when selling real estate or renewing a bank deposit, taxes and deductions to be paid to the state can reach 50-60% of salary income. Yet citizens often aren’t even aware of or calculate this. For example, the tax on interest income from savings is considered unfair by those in countries that have eliminated it. But in Mongolia, according to the Personal Income Tax Law, a 10% tax is withheld from bank interest income. The bank automatically deducts this when paying out interest, transferring only the post-tax income to the citizen’s account. Citizen B. Tsooj avoids taking out a mortgage loan because he does not want to pay twice for a home purchase. He chooses instead to work hard, save up at a bank, and buy an apartment outright. But now his motivation has disappeared, because of the tax on interest income. He explains: “Last month, my deposit matured. I went to the bank to withdraw and renew it, but I found that 385,856 MNT had been deducted as tax from the interest. Even 3,000 MNT, let alone 300,000, is important to me—this is unfair. I have worked in my country, paying all legal taxes and fees. I deposit what I have left, my post-tax money, in the bank. How come the same personal income tax is being taken again from my savings interest? This is just daylight robbery. I’m not the only one saving money in this country; lots of people save for their children’s school fees or training. Even people who need regular medical treatment are taxed on their savings. You shouldn't "squeeze" struggling citizens like this. If taxation really is necessary, it should be more flexible, perhaps only imposed on amounts above a certain threshold.” Not all countries tax savings interest. Today, about twenty countries worldwide have no personal income tax, and so do not tax interest income. These include the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bermuda, the Cayman Islands, Virgin Islands, Somalia, Western Sahara, and others. In countries that do tax interest, the rate is usually about 5%. However, Mongolians have to pay all due taxes from their income, and then pay double or triple more in other taxes and fees. Because we are a poor country, even our savings are taxed, sharing the burden among everyone. Economists call the 10% tax on interest and 2% on property sales a form of robbery. Whether you run a business or work for a salary, avoiding personal income tax is impossible. Even after paying all taxes and fees and owning a piece of real estate, you are charged again if you try to sell it. Besides what's in the table, there is a 10% direct withholding on dividends, taxes on bond and security interest, income from other debt instruments, royalty and technology transfer fees, lottery and gambling taxes, reward and prize income taxes, local and national fees—these are all included in ticket prices for airports and railways as safety and movement taxes, which many don't realize. Customs duties on imported goods are also ultimately paid by buyers. In other words, we buy everything at a price loaded with taxes. While citizens of importing countries even have to bear the brunt of taxes when buying fuel, those in power here are more eager to fine, ban, tie up, or raise taxes than to reduce the tax rate. Researchers say it’s necessary not only to reduce tax rates but, more importantly, to make them more effective, transparent, and fair, and to create systems for benefits and incentives.

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S. Tsenguun: In Just a Few Months, 24 Billion MNT Worth of Products Have Been Ordered from Mongolia Through China's Temu Online Store

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

With the exclusive permission of MPA Agency, we are using this photograph. The Standing Committee on Innovation and Digital Policy listened to statements from the relevant organizations about the operations of Mongol Post JSC and the use of the national postal delivery network. On this occasion, Member of Parliament S. Tsenguun expressed his views regarding the reform of Mongol Post company. Member of Parliament S. Tsenguun said: "To talk about this sector, we need to address the issue of delivery services connected to e-commerce. In recent years, around 50,000 businesses have been operating online. Online entrepreneurs reach citizens daily through delivery services. Statistics show that about 240 million MNT circulates daily in Ulaanbaatar city alone. This is a huge market with potential for further growth. Since November 2024, China's Temu online store has entered the market. In just a few months, 24 billion MNT worth of goods have been ordered from Mongolia. This shows that there are vast opportunities in the delivery service sector. The director of Mongol Post said, 'Because the market is small, we cannot fully operate.' However, Mongol Post is unable to compete in its own sphere. The standard of delivering to an address within 48 hours, which was adopted in the 1990s, has been kept for too long. Meanwhile, private delivery companies are operating very efficiently, offering same-day delivery within 12 hours, so both city and rural residents prefer private services. As a result, Mongol Post is losing in competition. Therefore, it is necessary to review the 66% government ownership of this company. Ard Financial Group owns 24%, and small shareholders own the remaining 10%. At first glance, it seems like an open and privately managed company, but in reality, the government remains the decision-maker. If government's involvement is reduced to 34% and private participation is increased, Mongol Post could have the opportunity to compete better." Note: Media organizations (TV, radio, social media, and websites) are prohibited from using our information in any form, in full or in part, without agreement, and must cite the source (ikon.mn) if permission is granted.

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NOTICE TO BONDHOLDERS

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The bond market has been blazing hot for the past three years. Savers have learned to manage their portfolios by combining bonds. However, every boom carries risk behind it—this is the nature of economic engines. So, what sparks are flying? New bonds are being snatched up left and right as soon as they hit the market. Investors are chasing returns as if following the trail of the wind. Bonds are increasingly considered to be less risky than stocks. However, yield and risk are two sides of the same coin. You have likely paid enough attention to the yield, which is one side of the coin. Now it's time to talk about and discuss the other side—RISK. THE GREAT BOND MARKET CONFERENCE WILL TAKE PLACE ON MAY 17. As the saying goes, if we all discuss together there is no blame, and washing with warm water leaves no stain. At the conference, we will not only discuss the current situation and expected risks in the bond market, but also, together with professional investors, talk about what strategy should be adopted when making any kind of investment. We will also revisit the strategic approach of Mongolians at this grand gathering accompanied by airag and milk tea. As our venue is expected to be full, please secure your seat. IF YOU WISH TO PARTICIPATE IN THE CONFERENCE: bit.ly/ikonbzih Notice Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social Media and Websites) are not allowed to use our information in whole or in part in any form unless consent is given, and only with the source (ikon.mn) cited.

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Khuns Group's 'Khuns Complex' LLC Wins Gold and Silver Medals at IFFA 2025 International Exhibition

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The IFFA 2025 International Exhibition, showcasing new technologies and innovative solutions in the sector, is taking place in Frankfurt, Germany from the 3rd to the 8th of this month. This exhibition, held every three years, saw participation from major companies representing their countries, including "Khuns Complex" LLC, a leading food manufacturing company under Khuns Group, which has been operating for 33 years. They participated with five products. Based on their many years of technological know-how, they won GOLD medals for three products: "Beef Salami," "Dumpling Sausage," and "Sticks Salami," and a SILVER medal for "Tongue Aspic," a by-product, receiving high praise from judges for taste, quality, and processing level. The IFFA exhibition is one of the world's most prestigious exhibitions, showcasing innovations and quality solutions covering all stages of meat and meat product processing. It features over 1,000 businesses from more than 50 countries and is notable for providing an opportunity for positive exchange of experiences. By participating in this exhibition, individuals and enterprises can personally meet with international peers, exchange experiences, learn about future trends in the food sector and various cultural aspects, and gain firsthand knowledge and information. "Khuns Complex" LLC combines traditional meat product manufacturing with modern technology, standing out with quality and environmentally friendly solutions, and has received recognition from international experts. This is an important event affirming the competitiveness and quality of Mongolia's food sector on the global stage. Note: Media organizations (TV, radio, social, and web pages) are prohibited from using our information fully or partially in any form without agreement and must mention the source (ikon.mn) if used by prior agreement.

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Proposal to Reduce Personal Income Tax to One Percent under Discussion

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

Economist R. Shinegerel has submitted a public online petition to lower the personal income tax rate to one percent. More than 100,000 citizens have signed this petition, prompting the Budget Standing Committee to establish a working group, led by Member of Parliament Kh. Gankhuyag, to study the issue and draft a bill. At the same time, Members of Parliament J. Bayarmaa, B. Punsalmaa, G. Ochirbat, and O. Amgalanbaatar have jointly drafted a bill to amend the Law on Personal Income Tax to implement this initiative. The members have submitted a request to Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene to obtain the government's opinion and conclusion on their proposed bill. After receiving a response from the government, the bill will be submitted to the Parliament.

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Startup 'Primer' Company Fined and Director Given Suspended Sentence

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The case involving the startup 'Primer' LLC, based at the Institute of Veterinary Medicine, and its director, veterinarian, PhD, associate professor S. Lkhagvasuren, was reviewed and decided by the primary court of Bayangol, Khan-Uul, and Songinokhairkhan districts. The company and its director, S. Lkhagvasuren, were charged under articles 24.3-1 and 24.3-3 of the Criminal Code: "Illegally using, importing, manufacturing, storing, selling, purchasing, transporting, transferring, or using hazardous chemical substances for unintended purposes," and "committing the crime in the name and interest of a legal entity." The Prosecutor’s Office brought an indictment to court under these charges. Primer LLC, based at the Institute of Veterinary Medicine, is a private entity providing veterinary services, monitoring, evaluation, food safety training, consultancy, testing, and the development of diagnostic technologies. In conducting its operations, Primer engaged in scientific research and the production and sale of diagnostic tools, and used hazardous chemicals in its laboratory for meat research and development. However, the company and its director were accused of procuring and using potassium chromate, sodium hydroxide, and silver nitrate without the appropriate permits. Some of these substances are classified as hazardous in the list of dangerous chemical substances of Mongolia. The court found the startup 'Primer' LLC and director S. Lkhagvasuren guilty of illegally using hazardous chemical substances in their operations. The director was given a one-year suspended sentence, the company was fined 23 million MNT, and its operating rights were restricted for a certain period.

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V.Oyuumaa: There is evidence that over 210 companies and individuals who rented municipal property have left MNT 310 million in debt

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Many cases have emerged in recent years where buildings and structures owned by the capital city have been used for free for many years, leading to their deterioration. We spoke with V. Oyuumaa, head of the Capital City Property Relations Department, about issues surrounding the municipal property. - There has been much discussion in recent years about the illegal use of city property, such as the Central Stadium and J.Khatanbaatar Hospital. Why do these issues arise? - The issue of illegal use of municipal property has been ongoing for more than 10 years, sometimes even longer. There are numerous cases where city property has been devalued and used for free for many years. One of the most recent examples is the Traditional Medicine Clinical Center under the Mayor's Office and its affiliated facilities. When I was appointed head of the Property Relations Department in January 2024, I visited many municipal buildings and found that most of them were only talked about in the past tense as having "been municipal property." We studied the issues and conducted inspections. In the first phase, inspections were carried out on places using municipal buildings for lease purposes, revealing more than 20 violations related to real estate. Some of these cases have become civil and criminal lawsuits. - What types of violations are commonly found in leased municipal properties? And what is the usual rental price for city-owned properties? - The municipal property rental rates are significantly lower than the market price and are based on regulations from 2014. Last year, after evaluation, the rent was raised by up to 50%. Even though a new tariff was approved for 2025, rents were not increased in line with government policy. Some individuals and businesses had used municipal spaces for years without paying a single tögrög in rent. Last year, we collected the outstanding payments from them. As of today, there is evidence that over 210 companies and individuals who have used municipal property have left a debt of MNT 310 million to the city. Our staff are contacting every such person to recover the debts. Those who refuse to acknowledge or pay their debts are being investigated by legal authorities. - Will such inspections continue in 2025? - This year, we began categorizing the inspections. For example, in March, when we inspected the usage of hospital buildings in six city districts, numerous violations were found. This month, we started inspections of the usage of general education school buildings. Our goal in monitoring the usage of municipal property is not to disrupt organizations' operations, but simply to check whether buildings are being used lawfully and whether surplus space is being legally leased to generate city revenue. Sadly, inspections have found cases where city property was lost, transferred to others, used ineffectively for many years, or left as ruins or abandoned because it was used for free or at a very low price without any care. - You mentioned that criminal cases have been opened against individuals who have illegally used city property. Can you give an example? - Some cases are being investigated by the authorities. For example, a criminal case has been initiated related to J.Khatanbaatar Hospital, and the Anti-Corruption Agency is inspecting it. Our department has about 360 lease contracts. Of these, five tenants were granted preferential rights, meaning that while most tenants renew their leases annually, these five had buildings leased to them for five years at a time. For instance, in the mobile phone sales building to the west of the Moscow Restaurant in districts 3 and 4, there used to be the former Post Office branch 24. The tenant signed a five-year lease, paying 3.7 million tögrögs per month to the city. But they subleased stalls to other vendors, earning up to 20 million tögrögs a month. They also added an extra floor for a lounge business. Thus, the Anti-Corruption Agency is investigating this tenant. Now the city is collecting not just the declared 3.7 million tögrögs, but also the 20 million tögrögs of sublease income. Subleasing municipal property for profit is prohibited by regulation, yet some tenants were given a five-year advantage and profited in this way. Another case is the old "Erkhemjargalan" family health center in district 7, also leased for five years each to two companies with the same owner (who also owns the mobile phone business just described). However, during those five years, the premises were never used even for a single day—they were kept locked and abandoned, with no water, broken windows and doors, etc. There may have been an underlying motive, such as trying to privatize the property through preferential rights. The city government of Ulaanbaatar is working to use viable buildings, demolish unused ones, clear the land, build much-needed facilities like playgrounds, schools, and kindergartens on vacated sites, and hold open auctions. Preventing anyone from taking unfair advantage due to inside information and violating the public interest is our guiding principle. - What would be the proper way to use municipal property? The Privatization Commission, which had not met since 2021, has recently held two meetings. Is this a sign that the city is paying more attention to its property? - The second meeting of the City Property Privatization Commission was held on May 2. Of the 28 buildings listed for privatization by the former City Council, 12 were removed from the list, three were approved to be demolished and the land converted to public green space. Municipal privatization can be through public auction, selection, private share, dissolution of a city-owned entity and privatization of its assets, privatization based on management contract performance, or issuance of special preferential shares. The city is focusing on carrying out privatization transparently through open auctions. For example, regarding the much-discussed issue of privatization via management contract: if the city itself uses a property, it handles its maintenance to an extent, but to reduce expenses and subsidies, management contracts are used. Such contracts should improve services and accessibility to citizens, with a goal of gradually reducing state funding. These are not contracts where the lessee just takes state money and collects all profit. We must properly evaluate the outcomes of management contracts. Lessees under such contracts usually do not generate income for the city and often leave behind debts and insufficiently maintained assets after 10-20 years. - How has the city removed assets from its balance in previous years? The property registry seems to be weak. - Most issues arose in the properties that were registered in the 2011 report but removed from the municipal balance starting in 2012. All our records had been paper-based, and only one specialist was responsible for property management in each district. That meant that the only person really familiar with a given district's assets was that particular employee, making it impossible even for the property department head to oversee everything. Human errors and lack of responsibility obviously also affect property registration. Therefore, with support from the City Mayor's Office, we transitioned to an electronic property registry system last year. Now all activity—who accesses, when, how, what assets are registered or removed—is clearly tracked. Training sessions were held, and in addition to our own staff, accountants and finance officers from the 877 organizations affiliated with the city are entering data. The system will also be integrated with the State Property Policy Coordination Agency's database. - With improved oversight and digital registration, has revenue collection increased? - The Property Relations Department is one of the agencies charged with generating revenue for the city, with annual targets approved by the City Council. In 2022, we collected 2.6 billion, in 2023, 2.8 billion tögrögs. In 2024, we have already brought in 7.3 billion tögrögs, even though there was no privatization except for a 34% stake in one public company. Despite an anticipated 1.4 billion tögrögs shortfall this year, we overfulfilled our target, showing that in previous years, we missed out on similar opportunities. Just as a household should be orderly, so must Ulaanbaatar. We want to work only with those who treat municipal property as though it were their own—with responsibility—when handling rentals and privatizations. - Will there be privatizations in 2025, and how will they be announced? - The City Council approves the list of properties for privatization. Based on this list, the Privatization Commission sets valuations and the process, and the Property Relations Department implements it. In 2025, a list of nine real estate sites will be openly auctioned, having been reduced from 13 to 9 in two City Council meetings. Of the 877 city-affiliated organizations, we gathered a list of buildings unfit for continued use so they can be privatized, which was submitted to the City Council. Previously approved real estate remains on the privatization list, and the privatization method will be approved by the Council. We believe that transparently selling real estate at open auction is the best approach. We will disclose all information about privatization and municipal property through relevant channels. Based on that information, citizens can visit, inspect, and monitor properties themselves. Source: City Mayor's Office, Press and Public Relations Department Disclaimer
Media organizations (TV, radio, social media and websites) are prohibited from fully or partially using this information in any form, except by agreement and only by citing the source (ikon.mn).

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Diplomacy

O.Altangerel: Special attention will be paid to the security of diplomatic missions and international organizations operating in Mongolia

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: isee.mn

At the regular Cabinet meeting, Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs O. Altangerel provided information on the discussed matters. He stated, "Presenting and approving the Family Law, invigorating activities related to child protection, improving the processes of investigation and resolution in connection with child protection—these are the areas where the subordinate institutions of the Ministry of Justice and Internal Affairs and law enforcement agencies will pay special attention. The Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs has been tasked with conducting research on the necessary laws, regulations, and procedures, and to focus on implementing these activities. Issues related to the security of diplomatic missions operating in Mongolia were also discussed. Every person within the territory of Mongolia must be protected. It was instructed to pay special attention to the security of diplomatic missions and international organizations operating in Mongolia, as well as to take appropriate measures to ensure that citizens of Mongolia can enjoy their right to protect their life and health in a safe and lawful environment."

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President U. Khurelsukh to Discuss Electricity and Energy Issues with V. Putin During 'Victory Day' Visit, Russian Media Reports

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: isee.mn

Mongolian President U. Khurelsukh has announced that he will participate in the 80th anniversary celebration of the "Victory of World War II," to be held in Moscow on May 9 this year at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir V. Putin. Russian media have reported that during this visit, the President of Mongolia plans to hold an official meeting with the President of Russia to discuss various issues. According to the Mongolian President's Office, President U. Khurelsukh will hold an official meeting with President V. Putin to exchange views on bilateral relations and cooperation. On May 9, the President will attend the Victory Day ceremony at Red Square along with other heads of state and high-ranking officials, and will lay flowers at the "Tomb of the Unknown Soldier" in Alexander Garden. He is also scheduled to lay flowers at the "Horses Aspiring for Victory" monument located in the Victory Park of Moscow, and meet with representatives of Soviet and Russian citizens who received the title of Hero of the Mongolian People's Republic and Hero of Labor. The Mongolian Armed Forces will also participate in the Victory Day parade. Russian media have reported that Mongolia's head of state is scheduled to hold an official meeting with President Putin during the Victory Day celebrations, where they will discuss bilateral relations, cooperation, and especially energy sector issues. Mongolia has long been directly dependent on Russia for electricity and fuel. In the past, Russia has several times announced plans to build a small nuclear power plant in Mongolia, but none have materialized so far. Specifically, Alexey Evsyukov, Russia's ambassador to Mongolia, said in an interview with the Russian newspaper "Izvestia" that an agreement to build a small-capacity nuclear power plant near "New Kharkhorum" might be signed in the first half of 2025. In addition, during his visit to Mongolia in September 2024, Russian President V. Putin also discussed building a small-capacity nuclear power plant. Previously, Russian Deputy Prime Minister V. Abramchenko had told Mongolian Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene that Russia would build a small atomic power plant in Mongolia. While these discussions have yet to reach fruition, it seems the issue will be brought up for discussion again. Russian media report that, besides Mongolia's head of state, leaders from several other countries will attend the event. Specifically, Chinese President Xi Jinping will make an official visit to Russia from May 7-10 and participate in the celebration for the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, according to the Kremlin Press Office. This year also marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, and Chinese and Russian media note that the two countries will use this opportunity to demonstrate their strengthening cooperation before the international community and the UN. Additionally, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico are expected to travel to Moscow to participate in the Victory Day events. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President V. Zelensky recently issued a statement warning that security might not be guaranteed during the Victory Day parade on Moscow’s Red Square on May 9, 2025, and that Ukraine cannot ensure the safety of world leaders coming to the Russian capital for the event. Sources: Gazeta news, EADaily news, S Vecherniy, Orenda Information Agency

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President U. Khurelsukh Arrives in Moscow to Attend Victory Day Celebration

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The President of Mongolia, U. Khurelsukh, has arrived in Moscow at the invitation of the President of the Russian Federation, V. V. Putin, to participate in the 80th anniversary Victory Day celebration on May 9, 2025. Upon arrival at Moscow's Vnukovo International Airport, President Khurelsukh and the accompanying official delegation were received with an honor guard. Among those welcoming them were A. Yu. Rudenko, Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia; I. V. Bogdashev, Director of the State Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and O. Enkhtuvshin, Mongolia's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Russia. Today, President Khurelsukh will hold an official meeting with President V. V. Putin to exchange views on relations and cooperation. On May 9, the President will participate, along with other heads of state and high-ranking officials, in the Victory Day ceremony to be held at Red Square and will lay flowers at the "Tomb of the Unknown Soldier" in Alexander Garden. He also plans to lay flowers at the "Horses Striving for Victory" monument located in the Victory Park on Moscow's Poklonnaya Hill and meet with representatives of those who were awarded the titles of Hero of the Mongolian People's Republic and Hero of Labor from the USSR and Russia. The Armed Forces of Mongolia will participate in the Victory Day parade. At the state leader level, Mongolia has previously attended this celebration in 1995, 2005, 2010, and 2015, and the country's armed forces have also participated in the 70th and 75th anniversary parades. Notice: Media organizations (television, radio, social, and web pages) are prohibited from using any part of our content, either fully or partially, in any form, except with explicit agreement and by citing the original source (ikon.mn).

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Infrastructure

A Joint Audit Conducted on the Operations of Ulaanbaatar Railway

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

A joint audit with the theme "Results of Activities and Socio-Economic Impact of the Mongolian-Russian Joint Ulaanbaatar Railway Joint Stock Company" was conducted by the State Audit Organization of Mongolia in cooperation with the Accounts Chamber of the Russian Federation. The audit aimed to comprehensively assess the company's activities from 2021 to 2023, including their effectiveness, management, investment returns, and overall performance. The Mongolian-Russian joint Ulaanbaatar Railway Joint Stock Company was established under the 1949 intergovernmental agreement between the governments of the USSR and the People's Republic of Mongolia. It is an enterprise with a 50/50 investment split from both countries and is regulated by international treaties. As a state-owned enterprise with Russian investment, its activities are subject to oversight by the Russian Federation's Accounts Chamber. No audits had been conducted on the operations of the Ulaanbaatar Railway Joint Stock Company over the past 10 years. Therefore, the implementation of this international joint audit is considered an important step by both parties to enhance transparency and accountability in bilateral partnerships. As a result of the audit, the current state of fulfilling intergovernmental agreements, the structure of joint management, regulatory responsibilities, and operational outcomes were reviewed, and recommendations were formulated. It was emphasized that such joint audit experiences will serve as an important tool for strengthening oversight of state-owned and strategically significant joint ventures and for evaluating the effectiveness of policies in the future.

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"Neocity" Becomes the First Residential Project in Mongolia to Receive US Green Building's LEED Certification

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

For the first time in Mongolia, a residential building has received the LEED Gold Pre-certification from the US Green Building Council (USGBC). This prestigious certification was awarded to the "Neocity" residential complex, certifying that the principles of environmental friendliness and sustainable development have been successfully implemented at all stages. What is LEED?
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the world's most widely used green building rating system, granted by the US Green Building Council. The system scores various aspects such as the design, construction, and operation of buildings based on environmental impact, energy usage, water management, and material selection, among others. Projects can receive points out of a maximum of 112 and qualify for different levels of certification. The "Neocity" project received 65 points out of a maximum of 112, earning the Gold level, which demonstrates the implementation of high-level, sustainable, environmentally friendly solutions. To meet LEED's international requirements, "Neocity" has adopted the following advanced, environmentally friendly solutions: - Smart Ventilation Solutions: An Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV) system, compliant with Passive House standards, will be installed in all apartments, filtering air pollution and saving energy. - Sustainable Water Management: A central artificial lake and a rainwater collection irrigation system for landscaping have been established, optimizing the use of water resources. - Solar Power System: Every building rooftop will be equipped with solar panels, batteries, and inverters connected to the main grid. This ensures that elevators and lighting will operate even during power outages. - Smart Systems and Consumption Monitoring: Smart energy, heat, and water management systems will allow residents to turn off all electrical appliances except the refrigerator with one button when leaving home. Every apartment will have its own heat meter, so residents pay for their actual consumption. Worldwide, over 42,000 buildings are LEED certified. In Mongolia, previously only two office buildings held this certification; "Neocity" is the first residential complex to achieve it. This marks an important milestone in setting a new standard for sustainable development in Mongolia's construction sector. The "Neocity" project consists of 2,400 fully cast-in-place, 10-story residential apartments, along with the "Shine Mongol-3" school and "Yokomine Mongolia" kindergarten. Construction began last autumn and is planned to be completed by 2027. Of this, the first phase—400 apartments, the school, and the kindergarten—will be operational in 2025. Notice
Media organizations (television, radio, social, and websites) are not permitted to use all or part of this information in any format without prior agreement. Use of the source (ikon.mn) is required when permission is granted.

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Orkhon Province Defines Its Development Vision Until 2036

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Bayangol – Orkhon Province, aware of the risks and challenges it may face in the future due to its dependence on mining, has proactively defined its next development vision. The aim is to ensure balanced and interdependent development in human progress, the economy, and the environment, as announced during the "Northern Zone - Erdenet City" Economic Forum. The province has set forth a vision to be creative, intelligent, and sustainable until 2036, considering this 12-year period as one stage of development. Erdenet City was founded in 1976, and next year marks the 50th anniversary of Orkhon Province. In these 50 years, the city has developed into a leading construction hub based on mining and heavy industry. The province has supplied about 30% of the state budget and nearly 90% of the local budget. Currently, the province faces an unemployment rate of 7.9%, and without accounting for mining revenues, its economic indicators rank 19th nationally. The provincial governor, B. Zorigtbayar, in his presentation titled "The Erdenet of the Future," remarked, "Being reliant on a single sector in the long run poses risks to the economy. Therefore, we have now defined our new development vision and policy." He also emphasized that as a result of this vision and its associated projects and programs, the future city of Erdenet will become "a people-centered, accessible, child-friendly city." The development plan, to be implemented over three stages until 2036, will begin its first phase from 2025 to 2028. In this period, in the framework of the "Healthy, Intelligent City" project, which focuses on social sector development, 22 projects will be implemented to increase the availability of schools and kindergartens. Under the science and research-based "Smart City" project, 24 projects will be carried out to develop housing, improve public transportation accessibility and service quality, upgrade roads, enhance green spaces, and strengthen camera surveillance. In addition, for the goal of creating a "Clean Air City" to reduce air pollution and ensure reliable energy sources, 24 projects have been planned. Furthermore, within the "Healthy, Intelligent City" project, 10 sub-projects focusing on the social sector will be implemented. Considering education as the foundational sector for establishing a “healthy, intelligent city,” new kindergartens and schools will be constructed, and delayed infrastructure projects will be put into operation. The aim is that every child can attend a kindergarten within a maximum of 1 km and a school within 1.5 km from home, with class sizes of 20-25 in kindergartens and 25-30 in schools, thereby enabling proximate education facilities and a healthy environment for children, as explained by the Deputy Governor of the province, D. Soyolchkhüü, in his report. In preparing the project, the current educational conditions in Orkhon Province and Erdenet City were analyzed. Erdenet has 39 kindergartens, with 19 located in 7 central urban districts, resulting in high child density. The largest class size reaches 44 children, and some households in ger districts are 2.5-4.5 km from the nearest kindergarten. On the other hand, newly developed housing districts such as 7A, 2A, Uurkhai Chin, and 1A, with 4,000 residents, lack any school or kindergarten, which is a pressing issue. Therefore, by 2028, it is planned to build kindergartens for 1,800 children in 9 new locations, reducing the maximum distance traveled to 1 km. In addition, projects to improve current healthcare conditions and develop sports tourism will be implemented. For example, in the coming years, it is planned to build the "Erdenet Arena" sports complex and an indoor ice rink. These developments aim to promote winter sports tourism and enable hosting of international and regional competitions. Moreover, presentations were given on projects that could be implemented locally through public-private partnerships. Local entrepreneurs, major manufacturers interested in expanding their businesses, and donor organizations participated in a project exhibition to showcase their products and services. In addition, an outdoor exhibition of construction, energy, green technologies, and agrotechnologies was organized.

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VS: Will There Be Power Outages This Coming Winter in Ulaanbaatar or Not?

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: news.mn

Member of Parliament G. Luvsanjamts said at yesterday’s standing committee meeting, "It needs to be clearly stated where in Ulaanbaatar there will be power outages this coming winter and where there won't be. If people insulate their homes and switch to electric heaters, it should be specified if electricity won't be cut in those areas." Meanwhile, Minister of Energy B. Choijilsuren stated, "Members of Parliament should stop populist talk. We can only talk about reducing outages. There is no scenario where there will be no outages at all." Therefore, in this week’s VS column, we highlight both sides’ positions. G. Luvsanjamts, Member of Parliament:
"Regarding the increase in electricity prices and the planned measures, I have a question. It’s said that there have been campaigns to advise ger district residents on how to reduce heat loss and save electricity. How many households actually received such advice? How many households have three-rate metering? We raised the price of energy. Conversely, we must actively give advice and instructions on saving electricity. If we truly want to reduce air pollution, we must support those who insulate their homes and save electricity. What measures will be organized before autumn? The insulation issue especially needs to be solved while it's warm. Second, the most important role of the government is to be precise. Lack of clarity causes people to not insulate, not plant trees, or switch to bio-toilets. The goal of planning should be to provide accurate information to citizens. There is a plan for 422 types of technical upgrades in eight districts. In which khoroos will these upgrades happen? In which khoroos will there be no power outages in winter 2025? How many households are there? Is this aligned with the Ulaanbaatar General Development Plan 2040? The Ministry of Energy always claims they don't provide information. I'm not being populist, Minister. We must clarify where outages will or won’t occur. If people insulate their homes and switch to electric heating, explicitly state that there will be no electricity cuts in those areas. I haven't asked for a total ban on power outages. I visited the exhibition at Sukhbaatar Square today. There should be a specific plan for which neighborhoods in Ulaanbaatar will not experience outages. Second, there is a plan to transfer 440,000 users to smart meters before 2026. Let's clarify this." B. Choijilsuren, Minister of Energy:
"Advice on insulating households in ger districts has been given periodically by past Energy Ministries, and also by the distribution networks. We have been unable to tell the public the blunt truth. In recent times, whether in traditional gers or private houses, homes have operated for 360+ years with no real standards, leading to problems. Also, when heating prices are kept too low, people aren't incentivized to insulate—it's simply too cheap. If prices were at market rate, there would be strong insulation efforts. Those not taking advantage of cheap heating are actually benefiting the consumers. Calculations show that a $2 billion investment is needed to build an energy source for Ulaanbaatar by 2031-2032. A joint working group has located the first billion dollars, negotiations are ongoing. The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank just visited Mongolia. If the first $900 million comes from the AIIB and Mongolia contributes the other $100 million, there will be a 35-year loan at 3.2% annual interest, payable in yuan, with a grace period of at least 5 years. If government guarantees allow, we can raise the remaining $1 billion. Our ministry can do it. That's the status. I chaired the National Committee for Reducing Environmental Pollution until the end of 2023. But now the capital city is responsible for air pollution. That's why giving recommendations is the city’s responsibility and you'll get more details from them. There is no such thing as no power outages, MP G. Luvsanjamts. Currently we have only one power source. Getting to two sources will take 30-40 years. We can only talk about reducing outages, not eliminating them. To avoid outages, we need two power sources that can back each other up during maintenance. For the last 30 years, Ulaanbaatar's ger districts have had no such planning, making it impossible. We shouldn’t make false promises and mislead people. We'll only talk about reducing outages. Preparations for fall and winter have started. Across Mongolia, it has been publicly announced that scheduled outages and maintenance will be conducted."

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FACT: Kh. Nyambaatar Introduces "Paid Zone" Law Through R. Erdeneburen, Plans to Establish New 'Unit with 215 Officers' to Monitor Vehicles Entering the Zone

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: isee.mn

City Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar developed the draft law on "Reducing traffic congestion in Ulaanbaatar and converting ger districts into apartment areas," which was approved by Parliament in December 2023. As a result, starting today, any vehicle with provincial license plates spending more than 48 hours in Ulaanbaatar must pay 5,000 tugrik per day, and citizens are buying Ulaanbaatar series license plates at high prices. - THE CITY WILL BE CLASSIFIED AS "CAPITAL ULAANBAATAR CITY," "STATE-RATED CITY," OR "LOCAL RATED CITY" - Moreover, starting from the 1st of next month (June 6, 2025), Kh. Nyambaatar's order to prohibit issuing Ulaanbaatar series license plates to cars older than 10 years will come into effect. In short, he is concentrating all power, devaluing private property, and potentially violating the Constitution with his decisions. When Kh. Nyambaatar first submitted the draft law on "Reducing traffic congestion in Ulaanbaatar and converting ger districts into apartments," Chapter 2 included a provision for establishing “paid traffic zones and parking lots.” Specifically, the law proposed to make sections of the road from West Four Corners to East Four Corners, and from 32’s Circle to Peace Bridge, into a paid zone, with fees for passing through ranging from 0 to 27,000 tugrik per passage. However, this part faced strong public opposition during discussions, so Kh. Nyambaatar decided—thinking about election outcomes—to withdraw the section about collecting fees for entering the paid zone. However, the paid parking provision was enacted and implemented. Now, the previously withdrawn paid zone project is being separated and prepared as a new law to be submitted by R. Erdeneburen, chair of the National Committee for the "20-Minute City." On Monday of this week (May 5, 2025), at the Democratic Party group meeting, R. Erdeneburen presented the introduction of this law amendment and related legislation. According to sources, the Democratic Party group did not deeply discuss the content of this law. In reality, Kh. Nyambaatar is the mastermind, hiding behind R. Erdeneburen, and the draft legislation contains many controversial issues. For instance, among the six laws being amended to reduce Ulaanbaatar's traffic congestion is the Law on Road Traffic Safety. The initiators explained that the draft includes a provision for establishing a new “paid traffic zone.” Additionally, Article 1.6 of the Law on Violations Investigation and Resolution details the establishment of an integrated system of automated equipment, technical tools, software, and corresponding human and financial resources to identify traffic violations by monitoring the color, state license plate, type, and manufacturer of vehicles, and comparing driver actions against traffic rules. The authority to establish paid zones, and to organize enforcement of laws, rules, regulations, and city standards in Ulaanbaatar and its satellite cities will be assigned to the Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, according to the proposed legal amendments. With this, they intend to amend the Legal Status of the Capital Ulaanbaatar City Act to classify the city as “Capital Ulaanbaatar City,” “State-Rated City,” or “Local Rated City.” This means Ulaanbaatar could be divided into 14 cities, where paid zones would be established, with monitoring of people entering these zones via cameras. Ultimately, all rules and standards related to this would be decided by the Mayor. - IF CITIZENS OR LEGAL ENTITIES DO NOT PAY TRAFFIC ZONE FEES ON TIME, THEIR VEHICLE MOVEMENTS WILL BE RESTRICTED - Furthermore, the amendments also call for a change to the Law on Crime and Violation Prevention, creating a "City Road Traffic Monitoring Unit" within the Traffic Police Department, staffed with 215 contract officers. This unit will be responsible for monitoring paid traffic zones and collecting road, road facility, air pollution, vehicle, and self-propelled machine taxes. If citizens or legal entities fail to pay the required fees on time, the unit will have the right to restrict the movement of those vehicles and transfer them to special lots as prescribed by law, or restrict movement in other ways defined by relevant legislation. The unit will be staffed as follows: 84 officers working in three shifts at seven remote checkpoints in Ulaanbaatar; 120 officers working in two shifts at five checkpoints within each of the six central districts; and 11 officers assigned to management, coordination, and internal affairs. Their salaries and health insurance costs will be covered by funds allocated to crime prevention according to the legislation.

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DARKHAN-UUL: Experts Presented Experiences on Earthquake-Resistant Private Housing

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Within the framework of the "Friendship" project, which aims to strengthen cooperation between the European Union and Mongolia, EU experts are working in Darkhan city through an exchange program. As part of this, the experts met with local authorities and introduced good practices, policies, strategies, and successful models implemented abroad in the construction sector. They emphasized the critical importance for our country—which is located in an earthquake-prone area with a harsh climate—of constructing buildings and structures using environmentally friendly, high-quality materials. For instance, representatives of Finland’s “Block Solutions OY” company introduced their innovative approach of recycling plastic waste and incorporating it into economic circulation. The company processes discarded plastic to produce construction blocks, which are then used to build environmentally friendly houses and buildings—a technology that has been introduced worldwide. These blocks are lightweight, have good thermal retention, are easy to assemble, and play an important role in waste management and supporting sustainable development. Finland, with a colder climate and more severe natural conditions than Mongolia, has shown through its experience that buildings made from this material are suitable for Mongolia’s climate as well. Each block weighs 5.5 kg and can be used to construct two-story buildings that can withstand earthquakes up to 9.2 on the Richter scale. As for our province, we have two decades of experience in recycling plastic waste to manufacture benches, fences, lamp and fence posts, and lids. However, local authorities emphasized the need to study and learn from experiences in processing not only beverage bottles but also hard plastic containers used for various household and other purposes, to produce finished products for construction materials. Moreover, participants discussed the potential to study and adopt economically efficient and environmentally friendly technologies, as well as offering them to private sector enterprises and exploring the possibility of implementing joint projects. In addition, the parties exchanged views on researching the current condition of the ash storage at the power station, developing ash drying technologies and feasibility studies, attracting investment, and implementing Erasmus programs. Intensifying research and learning from successful experiences could pave the way for constructing private houses with earthquake-resistant, environmentally friendly materials.

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Road closure and asphalt paving from 25th Pharmacy to Grand Plaza intersection

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The road improvement works are ongoing at Enkhtaivny Avenue, 2nd khoroo, Bayangol District of the capital city. As part of the repairs, the northern part of the road from the 25th Pharmacy intersection to the Grand Plaza intersection will be closed and renovated between 10:00 p.m. on May 9 and 6:00 a.m. on May 10. The southern part of the road will be closed and paved with asphalt concrete from 10:00 p.m. on May 10 to 6:00 a.m. on May 12. Therefore, the City Road Development Department advises residents and drivers to use alternative routes during this period. Notice: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social networks, and Websites) are prohibited from using our information in whole or in part in any form unless agreed upon and must mention the original source (ikon.mn) if used.

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This year, the intersections at Wrestling Palace, 25th Pharmacy, and Tsetseg Center will be renovated

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

A press briefing today provided updates on the road repair and renovation works planned for the capital city in 2025 and their progress. Head of the Capital City's Administrative Office B. Odbayar stated: "The tender for selecting a contractor to build the Tuul Expressway will be opened on May 29, 2025. After opening the tender, the evaluation will be carried out, and construction is planned to begin from June 15. The project to construct the bridge connecting the Tuul expressway to the Nisekh roadway, with a budget of 120 billion tögrög, will be implemented. The bridge will start from the Naadamchid Avenue bridge, continue over the Yarmag road, and connect to the Nisekh expressway. It will be four lanes and 846.5 meters long. A tender has also been announced for the road construction from Tonyukuk road to the 'Play Time' tourist complex, set to open in 10 days. This road is planned to be commissioned before July 1st. Two locations in the city will have their roads expanded to six lanes: - Road behind MSM Auto Trading Center - Road behind APU company. With the city road fund, new roads will be built at 10 locations: - From the Morin Davaa road to the landfill site - From the Tsagaan Davaa dumpsite to the landfill - Connecting Embassy Street in Sukhbaatar district's first khoroo to UNESCO street - Contractor selected and construction begun on the road to Tsaiz 1-11 street under the Shahrhad subcenter project - Construction has begun to connect the street east of the Academy of Management, Japan Town, to Khunnu residential area's road - A tender has been announced for the road from Khunnu residential area to River Garden complex, with construction starting from June 15 - Construction of two road sections connecting Narny Road to Damdinsuren Avenue - The four-lane road from Yarmag Bridge to Ajilchnii Street will be expanded to six lanes. This year, eight locations are planned for road repair and renovation: - Road from Sapporo intersection to 25th Pharmacy - Road from Khailaast intersection to the end of Doloon Buudliin - Road from Laaganii street, Ikh Toiroo road to Sambuu street - Road along the western bank of Selbe river to Ikh Toiroo road - Partial repair and renovation of Paris street road - Road from Erdenetolgoi intersection to the end of Sharhad - Road from East Four Road to the Officers' Palace roundabout - Road from the Police Academy Avenue to the tunnel junction Ongoing major road repairs continuing from previous years include: - Completeness of the bridge connecting Tolgoit Road to Ard Ayush Avenue is planned by September 1, currently at 58% completion. - The renovation of the eastern Zaisan Bridge is at 80% progress, with 25 of 50 beams fully installed, to be commissioned by June 30. - The pedestrian path from Naadamchid road to Peace Avenue is planned for completion this year. - Agreement has been reached with "UBTZ" LLC to clear land for the road construction from the north of "Dema" hospital, west of Narny Bridge, to the Sun neighbourhood. - Repairs of main pipelines serving the Golden Park apartment complex will be fully completed this year. - Expansion of Energy street's roadway continues. Land clearance from Naadamchid street’s bridge to Khösög Trade junction has finished. Utility rerouting is ongoing, and road surfacing will take place between July 1-20. - Main roads including Chinggis Avenue, Peace Avenue, Chingeltei Avenue, Ajilchnii street, from Zaisan Bridge to Camel Statue, are being repaired over multiple years. - During Peace Avenue's repair and renovation, traffic will be closed 11 times on weekends starting Friday evening. All works will finish before Naadam Festival. Parking along the avenue will be closed to create green spaces and bus stop bays, converting these into pedestrian areas. Three major intersections will be renovated: Wrestling Palace, 25th Pharmacy, and Tsetseg Center intersections. At Tavunbogd and the 19th district service center intersections, changes to road dimensions and lanes will be made. Notice will be given to the public three days before any traffic closures for repair and renovation works."

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Today, electricity will be cut off in some areas of Bayanzurkh, Songinokhairkhan, and Khan-Uul districts

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: isee.mn

We present the schedule for repairs to be carried out on the power grid. Dear users, please adjust your usage temporarily during the repair period.

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KHUVSGUL: It is Impossible to Travel Towards Galt, Shinee-Ider, and Jargalant Soums

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Due to precipitation across most areas of Khuvsgul province, and snowfall in some regions, as of 15:00 it is currently impossible to travel from Murun soum towards Galt, Shinee-Ider, and Jargalant soums, according to the Khuvsgul province Emergency Department. The Zuun Khooloi, Bumbat, and Shivertiin passes along these routes have been closed and visibility is greatly reduced. Therefore, the Khuvsgul province Emergency Department is strongly urging citizens, herders, and drivers not to travel in these directions until road and pass conditions improve.

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Society

Bureaucratic Index of Public Services Shows Improvement

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI) has presented the findings of the "Bureaucratic Index-2024" study. The survey aims to identify the challenges, difficulties, and associated costs that entrepreneurs face in accessing government services, based on real data, in order to improve public-private cooperation. This research has been conducted regularly every two years since 2004. This year’s survey was carried out with the technical support of the International Labour Organization of the United Nations under the new name "Bureaucratic Index and Cost," expanding its scope and introducing advancements in methodology and content. The highlight of this round is that the bureaucratic index of government services related to business activities was measured at 2.85 points, which is a slight improvement of 4.8 percent compared to the 2021 survey. However, the study also identifies significant lingering issues: insufficient access to necessary information for receiving government services, lack of clarity, inadequate real business participation in policy making, and excessive overlapping regulations remain pressing issues that require attention.

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There have been 2,155 disaster and accident calls this year, resulting in 80 deaths

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: isee.mn

Since the beginning of 2025, a total of 2,155 disaster, hazardous incident, and accident calls have been registered across the country. As a result of these events, 80 people have lost their lives and 54 have been injured, creating a serious situation. According to a preliminary estimate by the Emergency Management Agency, the real damages caused by these disasters and accidents have reached 23.7 billion tugriks. The majority of disasters have been related to fires, floods, strong winds and storms, traffic accidents, and earthquake-like incidents, according to reports from the national emergency commission. The increasing number of disasters and damages since the beginning of the year indicates the necessity to further strengthen measures to ensure the safety of citizens and to prevent such events. Therefore, the Emergency Management Agency offers the following recommendations: - Be informed and knowledgeable about disaster risk reduction. - Conduct training and drills to know how to act properly during emergencies. - Citizens and organizations should keep their equipment and reserves ready for use during disasters. Relevant authorities are intensifying their efforts to reduce and prevent disaster risks, and people are urged to remain vigilant and cautious.

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Mongolia Ranks 104th out of 193 Countries in Human Development Index

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: isee.mn

The United Nations Development Programme released the 2025 Human Development Report for countries around the world. A total of 193 countries were included in the report, with Iceland topping the list with a score of 0.972. The following countries were Norway (0.970), Switzerland (0.970), Denmark (0.962), Germany (0.959), Sweden (0.959), Australia (0.958), Hong Kong (0.955), the Netherlands (0.955), and Belgium (0.951). Mongolia ranked 104th among the 193 countries based on the Human Development Index. The Human Development Index for each country is determined based on four objective indicators: average life expectancy, school enrollment rates, average years of schooling, and gross national income per capita.

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Monaco ranked as the country with the least stress; Mongolia ranks 106th

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The beautiful nature, luxury environment with medieval castles and fortifications, cultural diversity, financial capacity, and peaceful lifestyle have contributed to Monaco being chosen as the country with the least stress in the world for 2025. CEOWORLD magazine identified the countries with the least stress globally and produced a report aimed at improving individuals' financial and mental health. This year, Monaco topped the ranking with a score of 83.83. The study surveyed 197 countries and regions and examined stress levels across four categories: social and family stress, health and safety stress, work-related stress, and financial stress. Countries known for high quality of life such as Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Ireland, and Norway followed Monaco on the list. Mongolia was ranked 106th, categorized as “below average,” indicating a high level of stress among its citizens. More than a third of Mongolian respondents reported that they "feel a lot of stress in every environment." Stress varies depending on the living conditions of a given environment. In some developing countries, it may be related to the dangers of armed conflict, while in developed and economically prosperous countries, work-related stress is more prevalent.

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VIDEO: Driver Who Hit a Child on a Bicycle and Fled the Scene Will Face Criminal Charges

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: isee.mn

A video has been circulating on social media showing a car hitting a child on a bicycle who was crossing at a pedestrian crosswalk and then fleeing the scene, which has caused public outrage. As previously reported, authorities have identified and are continuing to investigate the driver who caused the accident and fled. According to the Traffic Police Authority, "The driver who caused the accident deliberately left and fled the scene, and as such, will face criminal charges. Currently, the investigation is ongoing." The incident was registered with the police at around 7 AM on May 7th of this year. The incident took place in front of the Sports Palace on the road in the 7th subdistrict of Sukhbaatar District, where a Hyundai brand car hit a child on a bicycle at the pedestrian crosswalk and then fled the scene. This was recorded as a serious accident.

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Tomorrow, a Vote Will Be Held on How to Spend the ₮25 Billion Collected for the Children's Fund

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The photo is used with special permission from the MPA agency. In connection with the 100th anniversary of the children's organization founded by D. Natsagdorj in 1925, which will be celebrated tomorrow, May 8th, the Minister of Family, Labor, and Social Protection, L. Enkh-Amgalan, provided the following information. The National Council for Children, chaired by successive Prime Ministers, will review and discuss in Parliament tomorrow the policies and decisions made on child protection, development, and participation issues—assessing which decisions have been implemented and which have not. As the number of single-parent households and children living in at-risk conditions continues to increase, the National Council for Children, led by the Prime Minister, has been reorganized and held a meeting yesterday. Since September of last year, the Law on Child Protection has been enforced, and now there are over 800 family and child protection social workers in each district, subdistrict, and province. It is hoped that, by forming child protection groups in collaboration with school teachers and staff, definite results can be achieved. Additionally, over the past period, ₮25 billion has been collected in the Children’s Fund from citizens’ donations and vehicle license plate raffles. The guidelines for disbursing these funds have been newly approved, and directions have been given to increase the fund's assets, manage them effectively, and ensure transparency to the public per the new procedures. At tomorrow’s 100th anniversary celebration of the children’s organization, a vote will be held on which major national projects should be carried out with these funds. In the future, voting will be conducted through E-Mongolia. Three projects will be subject to the vote: building and renovating a Children’s Science Park and sports complexes, and establishing an arts and creativity center similar to the Children's Art Creation Center. Additionally, measures will be taken to hold companies that have privatized children’s camps and repurposed them as holiday resorts accountable, and to restore year-round children’s camps. VIDEO: https://www.facebook.com/iKonNews/videos/665931242846724 Notice: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social, and Web pages) are prohibited from using our information in any form, either partially or fully, and may only use it with permission and by citing the source (ikon.mn).

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Environment

N.Uchral: A Citizens' Oversight Council Will Be Established to Monitor Uranium Exploration and Mining

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

At today's government meeting, the draft government resolution on "Measures to Ensure Public Oversight and Participation in Uranium Exploration and Mining Activities" was discussed and approved. According to the Chief of Cabinet Secretariat N. Uchral, within the framework of this resolution, it was decided to establish a Citizens' Oversight Council to monitor uranium exploration and mining. In other words, the adoption of this resolution aims to eliminate doubts and misunderstandings among citizens during uranium exploration and mining, to ensure their right to information, to develop responsible mining, to direct revenues from the mining sector into local funds, and to further increase the income of the National Wealth and Savings Fund. He also emphasized that accountable personnel were instructed to oversee related issues such as ensuring production safety during uranium exploration and mining, monitoring the impact of radiation on livestock and the environment, and monitoring the financial benefits brought to localities.

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N.Uchral: We will discuss the demands received from civil society organizations and provide timely information on uranium mining technology

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: isee.mn

N. Uchral, Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat, presented the decisions made at today's Cabinet meeting. He stated, "At today's meeting, a resolution was adopted concerning certain measures to ensure public monitoring and participation in uranium exploration and mining activities. First, the government has made decisions to guarantee the public's right to information, to increase direct and constant monitoring, to allocate revenue from mining to local government funds, the national wealth fund, and savings funds, as well as to establish laboratories in local areas to analyze air, water, and soil pollution, ensuring citizens are provided with information. Civil society organizations have submitted demands to us, and we have paid considerable attention to them. The resolution released by today's Cabinet meeting incorporates both government and citizens' suggestions, resulting in the following decisions: The Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Ts. Tuvaan, and others have been instructed to provide citizens, in a timely manner, with information about the results of geological and exploration works in Dornogovi province, the results of uranium mining, modern technological solutions for uranium extraction, and safety issues. Additionally, regarding mining and processing activities in Dornogovi province and their effects on humans, livestock, and the environment, it is mandated to act based on the results of research by international organizations, professional bodies, and scientists."

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SELENGE: 221 Hectares Burning in Yeruu Soum

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

In Sukhbaatar, as of 1:30 pm today, a forest fire remains active over approximately 221 hectares in the "Main-Zoon" area of the Khentii Khan Strictly Protected Area, 2nd bagh, Yeruu soum, Selenge province. The fire originally broke out on April 28. Currently, firefighting efforts involve 110 personnel, including 12 people and 6 horses from the Khentii Khan State Special Protected Area, 25 people from the Ulaanbaatar Emergency Agency, 15 from Mandal soum Emergency Agency, 5 from the National Rescue Brigade, 10 from Bulgan province Emergency Agency, 41 from Mandal soum businesses, and 2 volunteers. They are utilizing 6 Zil 131 trucks and 2 Land Cruiser 76 vehicles at the wildfire site. They have extinguished the fire across the northern slopes of Sharlan Gol, from Main River to the confluence of Ataa Sharlan Gol and up to the headwaters of Ataa River. However, firefighting operations continue in Main Zoo, Yagaan Yaa, and towards Gatsuurt, where the fire is still burning.

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Innovation

The “IELTS CENTRE-NUM” English Language Proficiency Testing Center Opens at NUM

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: isee.mn

NUM and the British Council's education organization have officially opened the “IELTS CENTRE-NUM.” Last year, NUM signed an agreement with the British Council to open a center for English language proficiency testing. In preparation, they have trained the teachers and specialists who will work at the center and equipped it with the necessary technology, leading up to the official opening. This center will conduct academic and general English exams electronically on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. It is equipped with the latest technology and offers a comfortable, quiet, and clean environment with sound isolation. Up to 20 people can take the exam simultaneously, assessing the main skills of reading, writing, listening, and speaking. A distinctive feature is that if a candidate receives an insufficient score in any one skill, they have the opportunity for a “one skill retake,” meaning they can retake the test for that specific skill to improve their score.

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NUM Opens English Proficiency Testing Center

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

National University of Mongolia (NUM) has partnered with the British Council Education Organization to open the "IELTS CENTRE-NUM". Last year, NUM signed an agreement with the British Council to establish an English proficiency testing center. As part of this, teachers and specialists were trained and equipment was prepared, and today the center has officially opened. We interviewed V. Dashdavaa, teacher at the NUM School of Science and Engineering and director of the center, for more information about the activities of "IELTS CENTRE-NUM". - Please introduce the activities of your center. - Everyone knows about IELTS, the international English language proficiency test. Our center will administer both the academic and general English tests in electronic format on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The center is equipped with the latest equipment and provides a comfortable, quiet, and clean environment. Up to 20 people can take the test at the same time. The four main skills—reading, writing, listening, and speaking—are tested. If the score in any skill is insufficient, our center offers the opportunity for a "one skill retake" to retake only the test in that skill and improve the score. Test results are provided within 1-5 days. - There are quite a few centers that administer such tests. What are the unique features of your center? - Although there are many IELTS centers, there are only a few officially authorized centers. Our center operates under NUM and meets international standards. Our university's teachers and professors offer IELTS preparation and score improvement training programs as well. - Your center officially started administering tests last month. How many people have participated, and what were the results? - We conducted three trial tests and they were very successful. We are now publishing the schedule for the upcoming tests. As these are international tests, anyone can participate, including foreigners. All universities and colleges accept IELTS test scores. Students with high international scores can receive scholarships to study at foreign universities or have their scores recognized for admission domestically.

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Health

S. Odontuya: We will establish a laboratory that meets international standards for radiation measurement and analysis

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

Based on the Law on the Government of Mongolia, the Law on Environmental Protection, and the Law on Nuclear Energy, the Government of Mongolia has issued a resolution. In accordance with Mongolia's Constitution, which states that "citizens, within their right to live in a healthy and safe environment, have the right to know about the environmental impact caused by the utilization of underground resources," the government has decided to implement the following urgent measures to provide accurate information to citizens and the public about uranium exploration and mining operations and their consequences, as well as the actual effects and significance of uranium projects. According to this resolution, measures will be taken to inform the public about the results of uranium geological and exploration work carried out to date in Dornogovi province, as well as modern technological solutions for uranium mining and safety operations. Additionally, the resolution mandates the preparation and public dissemination of information regarding the radiation impact on humans, livestock, wildlife, and the environment related to the mining and processing of the Züuvch-Ovoo and Dulaan-Uul uranium deposits, located in Ulannbadrakh soum of Dornogovi province, based on results from research conducted by national and international professional research organizations, scientists, and researchers. It has also been resolved to study and make decisions on the establishment of a public oversight council composed of local community representatives, non-governmental organizations, independent expert researchers, and specialists, in order to provide specific information to the public on the social and economic impact and significance of bringing the uranium deposits of Züuvch-Ovoo and Dulaan-Uul into economic circulation, ensure transparency and accountability in uranium project operations, and create mechanisms for public oversight. Minister of Environment and Climate Change S. Odontuya also reported that a laboratory for nuclear and radiation measurement and analysis, meeting international standards for radioactive minerals, will be set up at the regional level.

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The National Center for Communicable Diseases Reports 1,410 Laboratory-Confirmed Measles Cases

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: isee.mn

The National Center for Communicable Diseases (NCCD) has reported a total of 1,410 laboratory-confirmed cases of measles. Of these, 249 patients are currently hospitalized, 195 are being treated at home, 966 have recovered, and there are 11,819 close contacts being monitored. Most measles cases are appearing as outbreaks in general education schools. Therefore, children and adults studying or working together are encouraged to get vaccinated against measles to protect themselves and others from the disease. Every citizen should take responsibility for their health and help prevent the spread of infection.

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Health Screening and Educational Counseling Event to be Organized

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

According to a joint resolution by the Minister of Health and the Minister of Education and Science, the "Healthy Teeth" program will be implemented from 2024 to 2027, with a plan approved to carry out 40 activities within the framework of six objectives. As part of this program, in 2025, the "Prepare Gifts" initiative will be organized with the aim of reducing oral diseases, limiting risk factors, improving preventive measures, and providing health education. Experts have highlighted that giving gifts high in sugar content to children on June 1st, Children's Rights Protection Day, which is celebrated annually, negatively affects both oral health and the immune system. In response, instead of distributing various sweets and treats, a preventative event offering health screenings, education, and counseling will be organized. Initially, 1,070 students of General Education School No. 10 in Khan-Uul District will participate in this initiative. The event will include early detection screenings for teeth, eyes, skin allergies, trauma, and nutrition, as well as the provision of health education.

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Sports

'Ulaanbaatar on Wheels-2025' Event to Be Held on Saturday

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: montsame.mn

To promote public fitness and sports, as well as to encourage healthy and proper lifestyles among citizens through increased public participation, the 'Ulaanbaatar on Wheels-2025' community event will take place this Saturday, May 10. At this event, there will be competitions among cyclists, as well as exhibitions of cycling clubs, sales from bicycle and accessory shops, repair services, presentations on green bank loans, and a free market for enthusiasts, all happening at the central square. As part of the event, a cycling parade will be organized from 06:00 to 13:00, and a 20-kilometer paved road race will run from 06:00 to 18:00. Accordingly, roads in the following areas will be partially closed. The cycling parade will follow the route: Central Cultural Palace – Central Post Office – 'Tsetseg' Center – Zoos Goyol Intersection – Government House – Sansar 'E-Mart' – 'Mongol Bukhyn Urgoo' – 'Central Tower'. Roads along this route will be closed during the specified period. The cycling race will follow the route: 'Central Cultural Palace' – 'Gallery Ulaanbaatar' – National University of Mongolia (NUM) Building I – Chinggis Khan National Museum – 'Metromall' Department Store – 'Novotel' Hotel – NUM Building I – 'Gallery Ulaanbaatar' – 'Central Cultural Palace'. Roads will be closed along this route for the duration of the race. Meanwhile, the Bayanzurkh Marathon will take place from 07:00 to 14:00, running along the road in front of the 'Dunjingarav' Shopping Center, starting eastward from the 'Shine Zuun Ail' Shopping Center to the railway crossing and up to the Gachuurt Road.

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Arts

Mongolian Taste, Mongolian Quality Once Again Proclaimed to the World

Published: 2025-05-07 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Ochirdaginas LLC is proudly representing Mongolia at the IFFA-2025 International Exhibition of Meat and Meat Product Technology and Quality Standards, which takes place once every three years in Frankfurt, Germany. Widely considered the "Olympics of Meat" due to its prestige and high standards, Ochirdaginas LLC competed with 10 products and, as of today, has been awarded 9 gold medals, proving its quality matches international standards. Participants who receive 8 or more Gold Medals are presented with the "Honorary Cup" by the German Meat and Meat Product Producers Association, and Ochirdaginas LLC has earned this distinguished award. Each product is evaluated by expert judges across multiple criteria including taste, texture, appearance, processing technology, and safety, making this exhibition one of the major highlights of the meat industry. At this renowned quality competition, where top producers from all corners of the globe compete, Mongolian taste and quality have been highly recognized once again. Historic Achievements: ✅ At IFFA-2016, Ochirdaginas participated for the first time with 5 products, winning 1 gold, 3 silver, and 1 bronze medal. ✅ At IFFA-2025, they competed with 10 products and won 9 gold medals, once again declaring Mongolian taste to the world.

IFFA2025 #Ochirdaginas #MongolianTaste #MongolianQuality #20YearsOfTasteAndSuccess #GoldenMedal #MongolianPride #MeatOlympics #FoodExcellence

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