Apr 9, 2025 62 min read Daily News Summaries

Mongolia News Summary for April 09, 2025

The following news articles are the opinions of their authors and publications. They are presented here as translations for informational purposes and do not necessarily represent the opinion of MongolBeat or its members.

Today's Stories

Politics

Discussion of Merging the New Party into the Democratic Party

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: isee.mn

Yesterday, the Democratic Party celebrated its 35th anniversary, and in connection with this event, the National Policy Committee (NPC) of the Democratic Party convened a meeting. During the meeting of the NPC, N. Ganibal was confirmed as the Secretary General of the party. Additionally, the issue of merging the New Party, founded by J. Batzandan and L. Bold, into the Democratic Party was discussed. Specifically, there was a decision to integrate the New Party into the Democratic Party, with a proposal to admit 30-50 people associated with J. Batzandan as members of the NPC. However, this faced opposition from many members, and there is also information that J. Batzandan, who came to participate in the meeting, was expelled from the conference hall. It has been decided to discuss the issue of merging the New Party, established by J. Batzandan and L. Bold, into the Democratic Party after the Supreme Court of Mongolia has made a decision to dissolve the New Party.

Back to Table of Contents

Economy

Foreign Exchange Reserves Exceed $5 Billion

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: news.mn

The State Foreign Exchange Reserves of Mongolia reached a historic high of 5.5 billion US dollars at the end of last year, but had decreased by 11.80% to 4.8 billion US dollars by January this year. The increase or decrease in foreign reserves is directly dependent on the flow of foreign currency entering and leaving the economy. Since the beginning of the year, the Central Bank has attributed the decline in foreign reserves to increased imports, particularly due to the purchase of cars and tourism by citizens. However, the state foreign exchange reserves have increased to exceed 5 billion US dollars. The reserve amount increased by 95 million US dollars, or 1.9%, since the start of the year, primarily impacted by the improvement in net inflow of foreign currency through the banking system and the continued favorable balance of foreign trade. In addition, the amount of precious metals purchased by the Central Bank from the domestic market reached 2.3 tons in the first two months of the year, an increase of 1.1 tons or 88% compared to the same period last year. Furthermore, the government successfully refinanced external bonds scheduled for repayment in 2024, effectively performing debt management, which reduced the external payment burden on the foreign exchange reserves. According to the Central Bank of Mongolia, increasing foreign reserves positively impacts the country’s credit rating, supports the financial operations of the private sector, strengthens public confidence in the national currency, and serves as a leverage and a guarantee for economic stability.

Back to Table of Contents

A. Telmen: The Mongolia Mining Exhibition is a practical event that provides a platform for real meetings and information exchange among industry participants.

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The "Mongolia Mining 2025" international mining exhibition, which brings together the best companies in Mongolia's mining sector, is set to be organized for the 14th year. We talked to A. Telmen, Deputy Director of Business Development and Marketing at Hera Equipment LLC, the gold sponsor of the exhibition. - This year, Hera Equipment is participating as the gold sponsor of the "Mongolia Mining" exhibition. How do you view the significance and scope of the exhibition? - The Mongolia Mining exhibition has become an important event with a wide scope as it gathers all the key players of the industry in one place, including foreign investors, mining companies, international and domestic financial institutions, and suppliers. Therefore, we have been participating as a regular sponsor since its inception. In recent years, as the mining sector has been expanding and developing rapidly, the Mongolia Mining exhibition is regarded as an influential event that contributes significantly to the development of the sector. - What new products does the company plan to showcase at this year's exhibition? - At this exhibition, we are prepared to highlight three main products and display them in the outdoor area. Firstly, we plan to introduce the Hyundai-branded HX1000 excavator with a working weight of 100 tons. Since 2003, Hera Equipment has been the official distributor of the Hyundai brand in Mongolia, and this brand is already well-known for its low operating costs and reliable performance. Secondly, we will officially introduce the Tonly brand's 90-ton capacity Hybrid dump truck to the Mongolian market for the first time. Attendees will have the opportunity to see this equipment firsthand and understand its working principles and advantages. In line with environmental responsibility and sustainable development policies, Hera Equipment aims to offer environmentally friendly and highly efficient technology to its customers. Thirdly, we will highlight equipment from China's number one brand, NFLG, such as crushers, screens, and asphalt plants. This equipment is advanced in design, highly productive, and broadly used in the road and construction infrastructure sector. - As a representative of the mining sector company, how do you see the trends in Mongolia's mining industry in the coming years? What is the impact of the Mongolia Mining exhibition on this? - In recent years, Mongolia's mining sector has been moving towards being more stable, environmentally friendly, and focused on local development. Equipment and technologies are evolving in this direction, becoming more fuel-efficient, cost-effective, and safer. Both manufacturers and buyers prefer environmentally friendly, innovative solutions. The Mongolia Mining exhibition plays a crucial role in introducing and implementing these new technologies and solutions. It provides the significant advantage of being able to see, compare innovations, and connect with industry leaders. We believe it positively impacts the overall development of the sector. - Could you provide the latest information about the company's operations? - Recently, we have expanded our collaboration with leading international partners. For example, we have started introducing products from China's leading manufacturer NFLG (Fujian South Highway Machinery Co., Ltd) to the Mongolian market, which is an important innovation for our company. Moreover, we are focusing on the development of driverless, hybrid (electric and diesel) dump trucks by the Tonly brand. This technology reduces fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions, and we are introducing the DTH145 Hybrid dump truck model to the market. In 2024, we have extended the official exclusive distributor agreement with Tonly company for five years, ensuring that we remain the sole exclusive partner in Mongolia. Warning: Media organizations (television, radio, social, and websites) are prohibited from using our information in any form, in part or in full, unless agreed upon, and must mention the source (ikon.mn) if used.

Back to Table of Contents

Defined Vision to Become a World-Class Tax Administration

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: news.mn

The medium-term strategy of the Mongolian Tax Authority has been successfully implemented. We spoke with D. Saikhanchuluun, the Director of the Tax Administration and International Taxation Department, about this. - You have reviewed the strategy of the past four years and approved the strategic plan for the coming four years. Could you provide information on this? - The Mongolian Tax Authority has implemented the medium-term strategic plan for 2021-2024 with a completion rate of 93.09%, fully accomplishing its goals. Moving forward, the strategic plan for 2025-2028 has been developed based on "Vision 2050," a long-term development policy of Mongolia, the New Restart Policy, recommendations from the International Monetary Fund, suggestions from the international evaluation organization TADAT, the National Anti-Corruption Program, and existing tax and other legislation. The organization’s long-term vision sets a target level to be achieved 15-20 years later, if not longer. Thus, we have updated the vision of the Mongolian Tax Authority with the goal to "become an international standard tax administration" in the future. Our vision is very clear, but achieving it requires considerable effort, as the relationships, attitudes, performance, and work results of each employee of the tax authority are crucial. We need to work with this understanding. - I've heard that the goal is to be an advisory service. Can you tell us about this? - The Tax Authority works to provide taxpayers with information, advice, and conduct training and promotion. This time, we will focus more precisely on disseminating information and providing services tailored to the operational direction, sector classification, and needs of taxpayers. Therefore, we are committed to the vision "The Mongolian Tax Authority will be a consulting and assisting organization." Of course, organizing these changes requires implementation of adjustments. Despite the expanded scope of our training and promotional activities, there are issues to focus on, such as effectively delivering necessary information to target groups. In this sense, proposals for amendments to the General Tax Law have introduced additional preventative measures against risks in the risk management section, and new regulatory provisions related to taxpayer legal compliance levels in the principles of the operations of the Tax Authority. In addition, the leadership of the tax authority includes services like assisting taxpayers, providing advice, delivering tax education, and implementing services for taxpayers in the section of its authority and management. - There is a public perception that paying taxes is a burden. What should be done to change this? - The Tax Authority will conduct research on the behavior and attitudes of every taxpayer, understand who the taxpayers are, define the service direction, and promote legislation based on the identified reasons for insufficient compliance with tax laws. Additionally, we provide specific guidance on registration, filing, reporting, payment, and risk avoidance for each taxpayer based on their characteristics and needs. This is to become a "Consulting and Assisting Tax Authority." Furthermore, we will engage in evaluating the consequences of tax law implementation, studying the needs of taxpayers, collecting recommendations, and advising lawmakers based on developed conclusions. Incorporating international best practices in revenue collection, particularly in tax debt settlement, we will work to create conditions for the Tax Authority to be involved in bank and financial institution loan issuance processes. - People should be informed that submitting a tax report isn’t only relevant for businesses, as individuals also need to adapt to the culture of filing taxes, right? - Based on modern advanced technology, partnerships, and collaboration, there is a need to improve the operations of the Tax Authority, including simplifying tax reporting, streamlining pre-prepared reports delivery to taxpayers, and enabling every citizen to file a tax report. There is also a need to develop a systematic registration of workplaces and branches of each taxpayer, implement risk assessment-aligned tax debt management, and improve processes for dealing with non-complying taxpayers. In addition, the exchange of information is crucial for accurately monitoring tax declarations. By 2027, we will automate this information exchange based on the "Multilateral Competent Authority Agreement on the Automatic Exchange of Financial Account Information" (CRS MCAA) and the "Multilateral Competent Authority Agreement on the Exchange of Country-by-Country Reports" (CbCR MCAA), which were signed last month. This will open the possibility to control international transactions and improve transfer pricing monitoring. Moreover, we will implement works aimed at establishing an optimal governance model ensuring cohesion between tax authority units, and enhancing responsibility through internal controls and independent audits, thus increasing the transparency of the tax authority. Each process, such as providing services, accepting reports, validating processes, settling tax debts, and conducting audits, will have human-day standards applied and observed. Quality control will be integrated across all operations of the Tax Authority, improving internal controls. Additionally, we will work on preventing corruption and conflicts of interest and ensure transparency by developing a public monitoring system.

Back to Table of Contents

J. Enkhbayar: There is a possibility of raising 600 million USD from cashmere

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: news.mn

During today's session of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Environment, Food and Agriculture, the Minister of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry provided information on the implementation of the Parliament's 2024 resolution No. 63. In connection with this information, members of Parliament asked questions and received answers. Member of Parliament J. Batjargal: "There have been complications in this year's cashmere sales. Nationwide, we need to consolidate 1.3 trillion MNT worth of cashmere. Out of this, 230 billion is being issued as a circulating capital loan. As of March 30 of this year, 32% of this loan has been issued, but the monetization of circulating capital is still lacking. In this regard, we need to focus on time-sensitive issues within the contracts with banks to capitalize our national factories and stabilize cashmere prices. There are also certain groups like traders not lagging behind national manufacturers. They buy cashmere with cash. Moreover, washed cashmere is entering according to customs data. What is the reason for this?" Minister of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry J. Enkhbayar: "Currently, about 600 tons of cashmere have been purchased. In Dornod province, cashmere is being bought for 163,000-165,000 MNT per kg, and in Sukhbaatar and Khentii provinces, for 155,000-158,000 MNT. There is a significant tariff war happening worldwide, and substantial mutual tariffs are being imposed. During this time, cashmere has shown relatively low sensitivity compared to coal, with a movement of around 5%. The cashmere situation is favorable. Utilizing this period to urgently establish our internal manufacturing capacity will bring great benefits to Mongolia. Over 200 million USD, or 800 billion MNT, remains in Mongolia, from just the scouring and washing processes. It contributes as taxes, salaries, electricity, heat, and social insurance. As processing stages improve, we are negatively impacting trader systems where cashmere used to be washed here and directly supplied to Chinese factories. Measures are being organized against this from various angles. This is a golden era for cashmere factories while internal production is being established. Time to establish wool and cashmere processing. The price is also reasonable. Seeing the average raw material prices over five years, cashmere used to be 50,000-60,000 MNT per kg in 2020, but today it's being bought for 150,000-160,000 MNT. The policy support approved by the Parliament is having a positive effect. However, when approving the state budget, 130 billion was cut from our sector. If all of the 1.3 trillion cashmere had been fully domestically acquired, the benefits for Mongolia would have been high. The statistics for imported cashmere show our processing capability is weak, leading factories to send finished yarn abroad for dyeing and bring back finely processed threads for final product creation, importing blends. Those who bought intermediate cashmere have installed 200-300% of washing and scouring capacity in Mongolia. Now it's time to manufacture in Mongolia, instead of processing others' raw materials. Let's wash and scour all 10,000 tons of globally competitive cashmere 100%. Scoured cashmere can play a big role in the major markets of Europe and America. Some of our citizens have imported cashmere from Kazakhstan, processed it in Mongolia, and exported it to China, according to statistics. As our production and processing levels increase, cashmere becomes more valuable. Cashmere is like gold. When washed and scoured, it's akin to carved gold. It's ready foreign currency. Let's advance cashmere to the final product processing stages. If 100% washed, then let's scour 100% too. Then, if we spin 100% into yarn, we can control 50% of the 4.7 billion USD cashmere market. Purely from cashmere, there's an opportunity for 2 billion USD in exports. Currently, we're stuck at 404 million USD. By washing and scouring this year, the minimum is 600 million USD, and by increasing yarn production capacity, we'll jump to 2 million USD. Behind this, herders' lives will be fruitful. Failing to do this has led wool and hides prices to fall. Cashmere is ready gold, currency. There's time to transform it into stone. Today's 5,000-10,000 MNT drop in cashmere prices is temporary, and using it, there's something trying to exploit. Worldwide attention is on domestic production. Therefore, we propose implementing a sustainable cashmere policy. Not only coal and gold are currency, but cashmere is too." Member of Parliament B. Uyanga: "Loans under the 'White Gold' national program are being issued only in Darkhan-Uul, Orkhon, and Ulaanbaatar. What about other provinces? What measures is the ministry implementing to encompass the entire nation? From where is the decision to grant loans to enterprises being made?" Minister of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry J. Enkhbayar: "The goal of the 'White Gold' program is to improve the processing level of leather, wool, and cashmere. Processing plants are in the previously mentioned provinces. For example, there are 27 leather factories across the nation, with 24 in Ulaanbaatar, one enterprise in Uvurkhangai, and two in Darkhan-Uul province. About 99% of cashmere processing factories are in Ulaanbaatar, the same goes for wool. The industrial infrastructure is established in centralized areas. Regarding credit issuance, we conducted a comprehensive review with wool, cashmere, and leather associations to decide which plants to introduce technology improvements and which to enhance. Selections are done by associations without adding unnecessary capacity. The main investment is on advanced levels of washing, spinning, knitting, yarn dyeing, and final product making for cashmere. We crafted our policy accordingly. When capacity of 200-300% is installed, there's no need for unnecessary investment. Implementing loans at the national level, very few enterprises have met district-level infrastructure conditions. Most issues involve newly established, newly processing plans. Leather processing uses extensive chemical products, raising wastewater treatment issues for environmental protection. The plant being established in Khovd with focus on technology park processing is preparing, with wastewater treatment construction underway, to concentrate on processing raw materials of the five western provinces from next year, increasing its capacity."

Back to Table of Contents

"Erdenes Tavantolgoi" JSC Sold 32,000 Tons of Coking Coal

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: news.mn

"Erdenes Tavantolgoi" JSC successfully traded 5 batches, or 32,000 tons, of coking coal through the Mongolian Stock Exchange on April 8, 2025, with delivery to the Gantsmod port in China. Five participants took part in the transaction, which was concluded at $94.3 per ton. Since the start of the exchange, a total of 25.5 million tons of coal, valued at $2.88 billion, have been sold across 128 trades. The company aims to implement an effective sales policy to maintain continuous and normal coal sales during this market downturn. From the beginning of 2025, the majority of successful transactions on the Mongolian Stock Exchange's open electronic trading have been conducted by "Erdenes Tavantolgoi" JSC.

Back to Table of Contents

Preparing to Submit a Draft for Tax Concessions to IT Companies

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The procedure for providing tax benefits to IT companies is being prepared for submission. As part of efforts to endorse the Information Technology Industry Support Law and to develop policies and resolutions for the sector, a directive has been finalized based on the suggestions of the members of the National Council. This directive includes the operations manual for the virtual zone and the procedure for providing both tax and non-tax support, and it is now ready to be submitted to the government. The National Council is chaired by Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene, with Deputy Chair C. Baatarkhuu, Minister for Communications and Information Technology (CITA), and Secretary O. Zolzaya, Director of the National IT Park, along with representatives from the private sector and higher education institutions. This policy and support initiative is expected to significantly boost the expansion of the information technology sector, innovation, and the development of advanced technology in Mongolia. The Ministry of Digital Development and Communications noted that Mongolia is pursuing policies to provide tax and non-tax concessions and support to IT companies to drive the growth of the information technology sector. The National Council has already developed key documents, including the national strategy for developing information technology production, advanced technology, the operations manual for the virtual zone, and the procedure for providing tax and non-tax support.

Back to Table of Contents

A Proposal to Include Non-Paying Residents in the Mongolbank Blacklist

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: isee.mn

A regulation to include residents who fail to pay their homeowner's association (HOA) fees on time into the Bank of Mongolia's blacklist has been drafted into law and is being submitted to the Parliament. The draft law, concerning the management of shared property in residential and non-residential buildings, stipulates that if a resident does not pay their HOA fees on time, a penalty will be calculated and they could eventually be added to the Bank of Mongolia's blacklist. Specifically, if the HOA fees are overdue for more than three months, a daily penalty of 0.5 percent will be imposed. If the fees remain unpaid for more than six months, the resident's information will be registered with the Mongolbank's credit information database, restricting their ability to obtain loans from financial institutions. This draft law was initiated and developed by Member of Parliament O. Nominchimeg and others, and is planned to be submitted during the Parliament's spring session.

Back to Table of Contents

USD Exchange Rate Reaches 3535 MNT

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

Just under ten days ago, it was reported that the "greenback" had reached an exchange rate of 3500 MNT. Since then, it has continued to rise steadily, reaching 3535 MNT yesterday. According to the rate announced by the Bank of Mongolia, the "greenback" was equivalent to 3512 MNT yesterday, while traders at the currency trading center "Naiman Sharga" were buying USD at 3520 MNT and selling it at 3533-3535 MNT. The difference between official and market exchange rates was 21-23 MNT as of yesterday. Some economists warn that due to disruptions in export revenue, the USD exchange rate is likely to continue rising rapidly, while the MNT is expected to decline. This week, it is predicted that the "greenback" could reach 3540-3550 MNT. Last week, Finance Minister B. Javkhlan announced that foreign currency reserves had been increased to five billion USD as a result of measures taken to improve the turnover of mining product exports. However, the rapid increase in the USD rate is also raising doubts among economists regarding the reliability of information related to foreign currency reserves.

Back to Table of Contents

America First Policy May Lead to New Risks

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: news.mn

Discussion with Professor D. Ulambayar from the Higher Institute of Science on current issues. - US President Donald Trump announced that he would impose retaliatory tariffs on more than 180 countries that tax US goods. In other words, he plans to impose tariffs on these countries equal to the tariffs imposed on US goods. The US will charge a base rate of 10% on goods exported to the US. - China's exports to the US have enjoyed tariff reductions for decades due to its developing country status. The main source of the US-China trade war during Trump’s first term (2018-2020) was addressing this issue and removing China's developing country status. In 2018, during the G20 summit in Buenos Aires, Trump signed a new free trade agreement, transforming NAFTA into the USMCA, as South Korean companies like LG and Samsung were investing in Mexico to export to the US tariff-free, impacting US factories. - Last year, the US trade deficit reached an all-time high of $918 billion. In 2024, the trade turnover between the US and China reached $582.4 billion. US experts warn of the need to restore internationally accepted rules in both geopolitical and geo-economic environments. - Globalization has deepened digital processes and mutual dependencies, making it impossible for even the most powerful nations to secure their own development independently. Countries are growing increasingly interdependent despite their political differences. - Mongolia's import and export market seems dependent on China. Rising tariffs on Chinese goods will impact Mongolia. While China's rapid economic growth is slowing, it is transitioning from rapid growth to quality-based development, as noted during the 19th CPC Central Committee's 4th Plenary Session in October 2019. China's achievements have positively impacted global economic development and Mongolia's growth. - China’s reduction in coal consumption is not favorable for Mongolia. US tariffs on steel products affect China's demand for coke, a major concern as copper prices also begin to fall. - Globalization benefits are uneven. The globalization process offers great opportunities for development but also presents risks, even to developed nations. - Free trade is touted as a driver of economic growth, yet it conflicts with reality, as seen in the US. Economic integration is not the only option; clear challenges to national sovereignty exist with the ideology of global unity. - Managing globalization, free markets, and digital processes is crucial, as all sectors of a country now contribute to global security. Equal, fair, and multilateral international relations with shared responsibility are vital principles in these historic times. - Trump's policies, although aligned with national interests, may destabilize the global trade system, leading to economic downturns. Increased production costs lead to inflation, negatively affecting growth. While US and Asian market shares decline, the strengthening dollar presents serious issues, felt even in Mongolia. - US first policies pose new risks, and although initial impacts may be marked, positive outcomes are expected in the medium to long term, according to US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. - China's imposition of a 34% tariff on US imports from April 10th, and the European response, are likely. Trade wars may result from tariff increases, warns the professor. - Mongolia must cultivate risk-free foreign relations, despite any internal foreign policy. - Trump's decisions impact Mongolia as part of US-China tensions, with stalled GSP benefits for Mongolia likely affecting trade. - Despite an increase in US-Mongolia trade in 2024, the looming tariff on Mongolian exports isn't beneficial. - The ongoing US-China tariff war and geopolitical tension with Taiwan could slow China's growth, hindering Mongolia's development and third-neighbor policy. Countries must adapt to Trump's policies, reflecting on outcomes like restructuring business models, and facing global tensions like the COVID-19 aftermath. - Leaders' personalities, such as Trump's and Putin's, play crucial roles in shaping foreign policy outcomes.

Back to Table of Contents

UMNUGOVI: 5 Billion Tugriks to be Spent on SME Development Loans

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Dalanzadgad. For the selection of the concessional loan project for the development of SMEs in Umnugovi province, 157 businesses submitted proposals totaling 22.5 billion tugriks. The province announced the receipt of projects for SME concessional loans funded by the local budget from March 8 to April 7, 2025. During this period, a "Let's Advise, Let's Help" one-stop service was provided to enterprises wishing to participate, offering guidance on project development, compiling supplemental materials, and consulting on guidelines. This service effectively assisted more than 300 citizens and businesses. The joint working team selected the projects submitted by citizens and legal entities for the SME concessional loan in accordance with the legal timeframe and openly announced the projects that meet the requirements, inviting them to participate in the project. In 2022, Umnugovi province financed 87 businesses with 5 billion tugriks in concessional loans; in 2023, with 4 billion; and in 2024, with 1 billion tugriks, enabling them to start and expand their businesses. This helped create 480 new jobs and provided the means to maintain 176 existing jobs.

Back to Table of Contents

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: news.mn

“Tögrog Nuur Energy” LLC's former executive director L. Dügerjav's daughter, D. Bolorsuren, gave a statement regarding the issues related to the Tögrog Nuur deposit. Last week, the Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat, N. Uchralt, informed that Member of Parliament Kh. Battulga established an international financial scheme to sell the deposit abroad without classifying it as a strategic deposit. She stated, “Kh. Battulga’s lawyer, D. Purevbaatar, is calling and writing. They are creating issues by claiming that my father sold the Tögrog Nuur deposit for 1.3 million USD and embezzled the money. Let’s first talk about my father. My father, L. Dügerjav, was a Doctor of Science, a scholar, a professor, a plenipotentiary and ambassador extraordinaire, and an Antarctic researcher. My father has been deceased for three years. In 2005, he and his scientist friends established a smokeless fuel factory at the Tögrog Nuur deposit, and by 2008, they were producing trial amounts of smokeless fuel. My father was the executive director of Tögrog Nuur’s deposit and owned 20%. In 2009, there was information posted on a website stating that the Tögrog Nuur deposit was sold for 250 million USD to the Chinese on the Hong Kong stock exchange. Our 20% was taken without consent and transferred onward. We requested compensation for our 20% in a three-tiered court process but were not successful. Yet, after 16-17 years, it has become a political issue being brought up at the parliamentary and governmental levels. As his daughter, I also feel concerned. As a citizen, I believe it is correct to submit all materials regarding the Tögrog Nuur deposit to the Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA). They are saying my father sold and embezzled the Tögrog Nuur deposit for 1.3 million USD, and as his daughter, this is distressing. Various numbers are calling and texting. I am afraid. I need protection. Therefore, I wish to hand over documentation related to the Tögrog Nuur deposit to the ACA and also request protection.” After this statement, she answered journalists' questions. - There are claims that Kh. Battulga, a member of parliament, coerced your father into giving up the Tögrog Nuur deposit in 2007. How was he threatened? - My father was a geologist, and he explored the Tavantolgoi, Tögrog Nuur, and Tsaidam Nuur deposits. He explored the Tögrog Nuur deposit in 1983. Ulaanbaatar city is covered with smoke, and as a scientist, he foresaw this issue and set up a smokeless fuel factory in 2008 by mixing brown coal with clay to produce fuel. We should have eliminated the smoke issue by 2012, but the project stalled, and our deposit was sold on the Hong Kong stock exchange without our involvement. My father left the project. I have my suspicions. At that time, the investor supporting us passed away. I am troubled by this information stating my father sold and embezzled 1.3 million USD from Tögrog Nuur and have decided to give the available materials to the ACA. - Even after you turned to the court, you could not recover the 20%? - They transferred our 20% to a bank without our consent, saying "you were in debt." However, we had no debts with that bank. No money entered our accounts. Nothing was used to establish the smokeless fuel factory. Yet, we are being dragged into issues of having sold out the Tögrog Nuur deposit and supposedly betraying our country. Therefore, I am turning to the ACA and the police as a citizen.

Back to Table of Contents

Export Revenue Increased by 9% From the Previous Week

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The export revenue of Mongolia increased by USD 237 million, or 9%, compared to the previous week, as reported during the fourth meeting of the working group on accelerating exports and boosting foreign currency reserves. G.Zolboo, head of the Finance and Budgetary Research Department of the Ministry of Finance, stated, “The increase in export revenue was influenced by a 26% rise in copper concentrate exports and a 4% rise in iron ore exports. Meanwhile, the foreign currency reserves remain at USD 5.0 billion, or at the level of the previous week.” Furthermore, S.Narantsoqt, CEO of “Erdenes Mongol” group, introduced the implementation of the government’s directions given to state-owned mining companies. He mentioned, “We are focusing on increasing exports by USD 442.5 million and deferring certain large investments worth USD 137.2 million to generate USD 580 million. We are also working to attract project investments towards increasing foreign currency reserves by USD 220 million and financing the 'Green Loan' pre-payment with USD 200 million, with a goal to raise the reserves by a total of USD 1 billion.” The meeting also discussed several issues including the possibility of trading low-grade coal and iron ore on the stock exchange and creating conditions for transportation via local roads, and it was decided to present these issues to the government meeting.

Back to Table of Contents

Agreement to Deregulate Taxi Service Prices Signed with Seven Companies

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Public Transport Policy Office has signed a five-year agreement with seven companies providing taxi services to ensure comfortable, accessible, healthy, and safe travel for passengers. The agreement includes a provision to deregulate prices based on market standards. Specifically, contracts have been signed with "Tebe Service" LLC, "Ubikab Brigade Cooperative," "Munkh Taxi" LLC, "VIP Taxi Service" LLC, "Star Auto Trade" LLC ("Sod Taxi"), "Buyant Khulgiin Joloh" LLC, and "United Bra" LLC. During the announcement, the executive director of "Star Auto Trade" LLC ("Sod Taxi"), S. Odsuren, mentioned that there is a proposal to include the word 'taxi' in the Public Transport Development Fund, which is being discussed in the legislative process in the parliament. This would potentially allow taxi services to access investments and preferential loans similar to those provided to buses. In the past, the Head of the Public Transport Policy Office, D. Otgonjargal, stated that the inclusion of taxi services in the Public Transport Development Fund was being proposed, with plans to add taxi operation companies to the fund and collect fees. If these changes are made to the auto transport law, these taxi companies will contribute revenue to the Public Transport Development Fund. Taxi services are considered a type of public transportation and are subject to legal regulations and licensing by the Public Transport Policy Office. As of last year, five companies with a total of 251 vehicles had established contracts with the Capital City Public Transport Policy Office to operate taxi services. Companies and organizations that operate rapid taxi services in suburban routes without receiving government funding have been required to pay a total of 3 million MNT over 5 years, or 600,000 MNT annually, as a registration fee. Warning: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) are prohibited from using this information in whole or part without consent, and must cite the source (ikon.mn) if used under agreement.

Back to Table of Contents

Diplomacy

European Union's Center, European Driving Force: The New Phase in Relations Between the Czech Republic, Poland, and Mongolia - I

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: ikon.mn

President U. Khurelsukh of Mongolia visited the Czech Republic and Poland last month. This article discusses the significance of the visit. During 2023-2024, French President Emmanuel Macron made a state visit to Mongolia as the country's leader in May 2023. In the joint declaration, it was highlighted: "Mongolia considers France a crucial third neighbor, whereas France identifies Mongolia as a special partner." Moreover, in February 2024, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier also paid a state visit to Mongolia. In the joint declaration, it was agreed to elevate the bilateral relations based on shared values to the level of "Strategic Partnership." At the beginning of the "Year of the Blue Snake" in the Mongolian lunar calendar, President U. Khurelsukh visited the central and eastern European countries of Czech Republic and Poland upon invitations from their leaders, thus beginning a new phase in bilateral relations. The Czech Republic and Poland, as members of the EU, have achieved high economic performance in a short time, significantly reducing unemployment and reaching a GDP per capita of 53-56 thousand USD. Additionally, 14,000 Mongolians live, study, and work legally in the Czech Republic, the highest figure among EU countries. On March 10, 2025, in the Glass Hall of Prague Castle's Presidential Palace, Mongolia's Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg and Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský signed a joint declaration on Comprehensive Partnership. The declaration emphasizes diplomatic relations established 75 years ago, traditional friendly relations, mutual respect, trust, effective development of multilateral cooperation, and support for international peace, stability, democracy, human rights, and good governance. The joint declaration, with contributions from both governments and peoples, establishes the bilateral relationship at the level of "Comprehensive Partnership" and was announced as such during President U. Khurelsukh's March 10-12, 2025 visit to the Czech Republic. President U. Khurelsukh and President Petr Pavel attended the ceremonial signing of the documents. No nation can choose its geographical neighbors. As the German geopolitician Prof. Friedrich Ratzel noted, the same applies to geopolitical neighbors. However, one can choose "neighbors" for good relations not based on geographic proximity. Since the early 1990s, Mongolia's foreign policy has included the "third neighbor policy." This concept is an official state policy and an emerging field of theoretical and practical studies. Believing in the significance of engaging with advanced, democratic nations in all sectors, the National Security Policy includes the directive to expand partnership and cooperation with the EU under the "third neighbor policy." A successful third neighbor policy relies on favorable foreign conditions to foster a humanitarian, civil, and democratic society, utilizing international relations to support national progress, sharing common values, and enhancing Mongolia's global standing and reputation. The third neighbor policy is not military alliance-based, nor is it against Mongolia's two neighbors. It is, instead, a peacetime geopolitical approach. Active, balanced multi-dimensional foreign policy ensures security and defense and enhances diplomatic flexibility. The third neighbor policy is part of the foreign policy strategy, embedded in international legal standards, that promotes national security and core interests through political and diplomatic means. Its success relies on balanced relations and cooperation between Mongolia, its two neighbors, and third neighbors. The term "partner" or "partnership" emerged in the early 1990s in international relations lexicon, evolving substantially in content and form. Concepts like "strategic partnership," "comprehensive strategic partnership," "partnership for peace," "good neighbor partnership," "comprehensive partnership," "expanded partnership," "comprehensive expanded partnership," "partnership for development," "intellectual partnership," "broad partnership," "multilateral cooperation partnership," and "equal partnership" are prevalent in documents and scholarly works. Increased economic globalization enriches the meaning and scope of partnership in diplomacy. The Czech Republic has had a long-standing, friendly relationship with Mongolia. The partnership began in 1971 with Czech assistance in building a centrally-equipped hospital in Mongolia. Even during socialism, Czechoslovakia rivaled Italy and Austria in leather and shoe manufacturing, contributing significantly to Mongolia’s leather industry. Czechoslovakia built the Chevron factory in 1960, the Leather Factory in 1980, and a shoe factory in 1981, launching iconic products such as Adidas-style shoes. Czech's Karosa buses served Mongolian urban transport from the 70s onwards, heralding advancements. The geological team discovered the copper-molybdenum deposits of Erdenet Ovoo. This project became critical due to Chile's 1973 political upheaval as Mongolia's strategic geopolitical and geo-economic importance grew. During the state visit, President U. Khurelsukh honored Czech geologist Kreiter, who contributed to Mongolia's resource exploration at age 100, underscoring this historical collaboration. The joint declaration on "Comprehensive Partnership" includes cooperation in geology, mining, natural resource exploration, and extraction, highlighting future collaboration in mining. The Mongol-Czech Metal LLC's fluorspar plant has begun operations, significantly contributing to the Tuv Province's industrial output and creating 200 jobs. Czech uranium exploration and mining gained momentum through Uranium Industry Co., which operates in Mongolia since 2015. Czech aims to boost nuclear energy share to 68% by 2040, with nuclear power comprising 37% of its energy. The Russia-Ukraine conflict emphasized energy strategy, surviving the EU energy crisis with minimal damage. President Khurelsukh's visit marked significant developments like "the wild horse diplomacy." He named a young Przewalski horse "Dagina," attracting Czech media. Late 19th and early 20th-century exports to European zoos initiated conservation leading to the 1992 Przewalski reintroduction project in Mongolia, supported by zoos such as Prague Zoo. From 2011 to 2019, military transport aided 300 wild horses’ return to Khomiin Tal. Studies identified Eastern Mongolia's Numrug National Park for future relocation. The Prague Zoo's long-term conservation support for Przewalski horses is notable, providing logistics and financial aid exceeding 1 billion Mongolian Tugrik. Cultural relations featured prominently, such as the "Genghis Khan" exhibition at the National Museum, showcasing 700 significant artifacts. Plans for dinosaur exhibits highlight cultural partnerships. Joint performances and business forums emphasized bilateral cooperation. In 2019, a Social Protection Agreement was signed, enhancing Mongolian labor market participation in the Czech Republic, signifying deeper social and economic ties.

Back to Table of Contents

Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Mongolia Visits Uzbekistan's Senate Chairwoman Tanzila Narbayeva

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: montsame.mn

A delegation led by the Deputy Speaker of the State Great Khural of Mongolia, H. Bulgantuya, paid a visit to Tanzila Narbayeva, the chairwoman of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan. At the beginning of the meeting, Tanzila Narbayeva welcomed the honored guests and expressed gratitude for Mongolia's participation in the 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union. She noted the strengthening and expanding of friendly relations between the two countries, which have a long history, amidst changes in social and contemporary development. Additionally, she highlighted that the visit of President U. Khurelsukh of Mongolia to the Republic of Uzbekistan in June last year marked a new chapter in the history of relations between the two countries. During this visit, President U. Khurelsukh was received, and both sides expressed their commitment to strengthening the favorable legal environment for bilateral relations, implementing mutual visits, and exchanging experiences between legislative bodies. Furthermore, Narbayeva mentioned that during the regular elections of the Oliy Majlis last October, a delegation led by Member of the State Great Khural, S. Erdenebat, Chair of the Mongolia-Uzbekistan Group, participated as observers. She expressed confidence that enhancing multilateral relations between parliaments would lead to expanded cooperation in social and economic sectors. Deputy Speaker H. Bulgantuya expressed her delight at arriving after the successful state visit of the President of Mongolia, following the opening of the Embassy of Mongolia in Uzbekistan. She extended gratitude for the warm reception. Bulgantuya noted that last year both countries successfully organized parliamentary elections, emphasizing that out of the newly established 126-member parliament, 32 women members were elected as a result of amendments to the Constitution of Mongolia. Congratulating Uzbekistan for hosting the 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, a first among Central Asian countries, she mentioned the importance of discussions and meetings during the Assembly, which affirmed the role and contribution of parliaments in regional and international cooperation, strengthening interconnections, and sharing experiences. Deputy Speaker H. Bulgantuya also shared that initiatives to increase trade turnover between the two countries, particularly enhancing cooperation in the agricultural sector, were discussed with representatives from relevant ministries and agencies. By intensifying mutually beneficial cooperation with promising economic returns, it was noted that regional partnerships could be strengthened. At the end of the meeting, Deputy Speaker H. Bulgantuya invited Tanzila Narbayeva to attend the Asian Women Parliamentarians Meeting, which will be held in Mongolia next year. The meeting was attended by Members of Parliament O. Nominchimeg, N. Naranbaatar, B. Punsalma, Secretary-General of the State Great Khural B. Baasandorj, and D. Batbaatar, Ambassador of Mongolia to the Republic of Uzbekistan, according to the Communication Office of the State Great Khural.

Back to Table of Contents

Infrastructure

$594 Million Investment Required to Build Multilevel Intersections at 18 Locations, Including the Central Post Office and Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: ikon.mn

As part of a mega project to develop Ulaanbaatar city, it is planned to build multilevel intersections at 18 locations in the capital between 2025 and 2028. According to the presentation, multilevel intersections will be constructed at 18 locations such as Baruun 4 Zam, Sapporo, Mechanical Engineering School, Central Post Office, Geser Temple, Bayanburd, 32nd Circle, 17th School Intersection, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Zuunn 4 Zam, and Ikh Mongol, along with 9,000 meters of roads and 4,500 meters of tunnels. The project is estimated to increase average traffic speed by 7.1 percent, requiring a $594 million investment. City authorities have exchanged views with representatives of Japan's JICA international organization on cooperating in the short-term infrastructure work to reduce congestion. Additionally, according to Ulaanbaatar's City Administration, two-level intersections will be built at eight locations as part of the Tuul Speed Road project. Notice: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social Networks, and Websites) are prohibited from using all or part of our information in any form without permission. They must refer to the source (ikon.mn) if agreed upon.

Back to Table of Contents

A 102 Kilometer Railway Will Be Built from Bagakhangai to Khunnu City

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Within the framework of 24 mega projects to develop Ulaanbaatar city, a branch railway line will be constructed between Bagakhangai and Khunnu city. This railway will extend a total of 102 km. The construction of this railway will require an investment of 850 million USD from a state-owned company. The load capacity of the railway's main line will be 25 tons, with a bridge structure of 2.5 km, and 115 drainage pipes will be constructed. The train's speed is planned to be 90 km/h. According to the press office of the Capital City Governor's Office, the draft amendments to the law on the legal status of New Zuunmod city and the accompanying legislation have renamed "New Zuunmod" city to "Khunnu city". Notice: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social and Web pages) are prohibited from using our information in any form, either in full or in part, without agreement. In case of agreement, the source (ikon.mn) must be cited.

Back to Table of Contents

Schedule for Power Outage on April 9

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: ikon.mn

"UBEDO" JSC has released the schedule for the maintenance of Ulaanbaatar city's electricity lines and equipment for April 2025. During the maintenance work, households and enterprises in the designated areas will be disconnected from the power supply. Tomorrow, households and enterprises in certain locations of six districts of the capital city and Zuunmod city in Tuv province will experience scheduled power outages. The power outage duration varies by location, starting at 09:00 and ending at 19:00. Power outage locations for tomorrow: "UBEDO" JSC announced that residents' opinions and complaints will be received 24 hours a day via phone number 7004-7004. Warning: Media outlets (Television, Radio, Social, and Web pages) are prohibited from fully or partially using our information in any form without permission and must refer to the source (ikon.mn) if agreed upon.

Back to Table of Contents

Discussing Collaboration with JICA for Redesigning and Upgrading Busy Intersections

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: isee.mn

Chairman A. Bayar of the Citizens' Representative Council of the Capital and T. Davaadalai, the first deputy governor responsible for economic affairs and infrastructure, met with Miyagi Kensuke, the director of the JICA international organization’s office in Mongolia. Chairman A. Bayar presented the studies and calculations made for redesigning intersections including the West 4 Road intersection, the Nar Bridge approach intersection, the intersection near the School of Mechanical Engineering, the East 4 Road intersection, and the Officer's Palace roundabouts with underpasses and overpasses. They exchanged proposals to collaborate on this short-term infrastructure work aimed at reducing traffic congestion.

Back to Table of Contents

Sukhbaatar: Government Agencies Begin Installing Black Boxes in Vehicles

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Baruun-Urt. As part of efforts to prevent road traffic accidents and violations, government agencies in the province have started installing surveillance cameras, or black boxes, in their vehicles according to the governor's directive. This initiative aims to prevent road traffic and other types of crimes, promptly identify committed violations, and ensure the safety of citizens participating in road traffic. Agency leaders have been instructed to implement this task in a short period of time. Additionally, the police department has urged the private sector and citizens to join in this effort to ensure the safety of their own and others' property. Recently, there have been numerous reports to the police about cars being hit in public areas and outside apartment complexes and homes. However, due to the lack of full integration with the camera surveillance system, some types of complaints cannot be resolved, leaving citizens harmed. Therefore, black boxes in vehicles are important for detecting unresolved crimes, violations, and accidents in rural areas. Traffic police unit's chief coordinator, Senior Lieutenant S. Sainbayar, emphasized the need for everyone to install black boxes in their vehicles to protect their property. By the first quarter of 2025, there were 39 traffic accidents with violations or criminal elements registered in Sukhbaatar province. Follow @montsame.mn

Back to Table of Contents

Event Schedule: Press Conference on Current Affairs from the Ministry of Transport

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: ikon.mn

In the Open Society Forum's conference hall at 09:00, a conference will be held to introduce an online system for transparency of political party financial reports and to study international experience. Delegates from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, the Open Government Partnership, the Open Society Forum, and Transparency International, as well as representatives from the UK, Armenia, and Latvia, will participate. Standing committees will meet in the State Palace from 10:00 to 15:00. A "Mongolian-Korean Startup Business Forum" event will be organized at the Shangri-La Hotel from 10:00 to 13:00. At the National Information Center at 11:00, the family of the late Senior Sergeant D. Janchiv, head of the 10th division of Ulaanbaatar's firefighting and rescue unit, who lost his life while extinguishing a fire in "My Store" on April 8, 2024, will provide information. A press conference on current affairs will be organized by the Ministry of Transport in room 301 at 11:00. The "UB Food" international food fair will open on Sukhbaatar Square at 11:30. At MUESTO at 14:00, the Trade Union Committee of Kindergarten Teachers will give information. Over 250 members, teachers, and staff of the Pre-School Education Trade Union Committee will present their pressing issues. Notice: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social and Web pages) are prohibited from using our information fully or partially in any form without agreement, and if used, they must cite (ikon.mn) as the source.

Back to Table of Contents

Initiation of the First Phase of the "Selbe Revival" Project's Embankment Construction

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The area with the highest risk of flooding in Ulaanbaatar city is the 43rd khoroo of Bayanzurkh district, around the Natuur area. Therefore, the first phase of the "Selbe Revival" project's flood protection embankment construction work has started from the Natuur area. This will be followed by landscaping after the completion of the flood protection embankment. Professional institutions have studied that there is a need to build new flood protection embankments along the Tuul, Uliastai, Selbe, and Belkh rivers, totaling 31.68 kilometers to protect the city from flood risks. The "Selbe Revival" project's research started in 2021, and its design was approved in 2023. L. Altangerel, the director of the city's engineering infrastructure department under the UBZA, stated, "This is a comprehensive project that includes a total of 21.6 kilometers of roads, pedestrian paths, flood embankments, green areas, and landscaping along the Selbe river. After completing the construction of the 1.4-kilometer retaining wall at the 'S’Outlets' location, which is the area with the highest risk of flooding, landscaping work will follow." Sh. Ganzorig, the executive director of "Prestige Engineering" company, mentioned, "Since 2005, a lot of buildings have been constructed, which has narrowed the riverbed of the Selbe river. The project design is aimed at addressing this challenging situation. If walls and protection are not made at the section where the Selbe river meets the Dund river, residential buildings around the 'Buyan Road' area will continuously flood. Therefore, the most appropriate solution for channeling large volumes of water is rectangular cross-sections, so we are building tall retaining walls. Once the construction is completed according to the design, it will provide conditions for citizens to rest and listen to the sound of the river," he said. During the flood that occurred in July 2023, there was a 3.5-meter earthen embankment along the banks of the Selbe river. However, the embankment currently under construction is made of steel-reinforced concrete and will vary in height up to 4.5 meters depending on the terrain. This work is expected to be completed by June 30. After the embankment work, landscaping and green area development are planned.

Back to Table of Contents

Adjustment Made to Temporarily Halt Transportation Over 44 Tons During Thawing Season

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Ministry of Roads and Transport (MRT) held a press conference today to discuss current issues. In particular, they announced a regulation to temporarily halt the movement of vehicles exceeding 44 tons for one month, due to the ground thawing with the onset of the warm season. The term "total weight of 44 tons" refers to the combined weight of the vehicle and its cargo. This regulation aims to prevent damage to road infrastructure, according to D. Oyunbold, director of the "Road and Transport Development Center" state-owned enterprise. "Electronic payment operations are underway at eight locations around Ulaanbaatar city," he said. "During the freezing and thawing season, the surface of roads and structures thaws, reducing their load-bearing capacity and strength. The freezing and thawing period usually occurs from March 15 to April 15 and from October 15 to November 15. During this time, the Ministry of Roads and Transport and its affiliated organizations work together with the police to enforce national and international standards and monitor compliance. A significant amount of moisture accumulates on the surface of roads during this period, increasing the risk of damage. Therefore, measures to restrict and temporarily stop transportation exceeding the allowed load have been implemented for one month." He continued, "Inspections regarding the temporary halt of vehicles exceeding 44 tons are ongoing. As of today, 4-5 organizations are jointly conducting these inspections at 33 payment collection points nationwide. In addition to collecting fees for the use of international standard roads, actual weights are measured using equipment at these points to identify vehicles exceeding the allowed load of 44 tons and take corrective action. Payment collection points switched to electronic systems last year, while eight points around Ulaanbaatar implemented electronic payment operations. In other areas of national roads, the traditional method of cash collection at 25 points is still used, with inspections conducted using equipment to measure the total weight of vehicles." M. Enkhbold, head of the sector's inspection department, explained, "Why do we address the issue of road overload at this time? Because the thawing period usually lasts from March 20 to April 20. During this time, the load-bearing capacity of roads decreases, so setting the limit to 44 tons is standard. Measures are being taken to enforce this limit. We met with associations of fuel transporters yesterday. The issue of road damage is not only related to physical damage but also concerns the safety of citizens and the assets of enterprises." The association of coal transporters came to the Ministry of Roads and Transport today with specific demands. The Ministry and relevant organizations will provide a joint response. When adopting laws, standards, rules, and regulations, we take into account the proposals and feedback from citizens, resulting in substantial development. There have been many complaints from citizens and local leaders regarding the issue of exceeding load limits. Vehicles currently in operation exceed the stated limit of 44 tons, with some carrying over 100 tons. The 44-ton limit includes the vehicle's weight with cargo. This was not arbitrarily set by us; there are international rules and standards. In the first quarter of this year, we detected 404 violations related to road transportation, with approximately 380 being addressed through advisory warnings or reprimands. A total of over 4.9 million in fees was imposed during the first quarter.

Back to Table of Contents

U.Onortsetseg: Unauthorized Fences Removed near 'Ambassador' Complex to Open Entrances

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The unauthorized fences built in three locations around the "Ambassador" complex in the 1st khoroo of Sukhbaatar district in the city have been removed, and entrances and exits have been opened. By addressing this violation, the road from Buyan's Street to UNESCO Street, commonly known by citizens as Natur Street, has been made freely accessible for vehicular traffic. Sukhbaatar district's Deputy Governor U.Onortsetseg stated, "The first stage of inspections was organized from March 14-28, during which 455 violations were identified across the district. We have resolved 60% of these issues. In the second stage, today we have removed unauthorized fences and opened entrances in three locations around the 'Ambassador' complex. With a team of over 50 people in Sukhbaatar district, we are conducting inspections on public streets and road areas, methodically addressing violations." During the inspection process, the Sukhbaatar District Land Management Department issued timed notifications to citizens and enterprises with land-related violations, and will forcibly remove unauthorized fences for those who fail to resolve the issues within the legal timeframe. Currently, there are unauthorized fences in 12 locations in the 1st khoroo of Sukhbaatar district. Warning: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social, and Web pages) are prohibited from using our information in any form, wholly or partially, without permission. It can only be used by referencing the source (ikon.mn) after agreeing.

Back to Table of Contents

Sent an official request to change the standards governing road weight limits

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Transporters have submitted an official request to the Ministry of Road Transport to change the standards that regulate the weight limits on Mongolia's roads. The request states, "The weight per axle for a vehicle is set at 11.5 tons according to the standard, while a six-axle vehicle is 66 tons. However, they have been deemed to exceed the standard weight, and thus we request a resolution to this issue." During a meeting with representatives of the NGO "Mongolian Fuel Transporters" and relevant authority heads, State Secretary of the Ministry of Road Transport S. Batbold responded to the request. He explained that, "In our country, the weight limits on roads are regulated by MNS 4598:2025, which is termed as 'General Requirements for the Technical Condition of Vehicles.' According to this, one axle is limited to 11 tons, and the total weight is defined at 44 tons. These standards are observed not only in our country but also internationally. For instance, China enforces a standard of 49 tons, Russia 44 tons, and the European Union countries 44 tons." He added, "The current method of calculating by multiplying the number of axles by the maximum load, then adding the actual weight of the vehicle, is incorrect. The load on each axle, the distance between them, and the number of wheels per axle must distribute the load so as not to exceed the total allowable weight. It must comply with the 'Law on Standardization, Technical Regulation, and Conformity Assessment.' Additionally, the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, of which we are part, is expanding international relations concerning road transport, and it is essential to align our regulations with international standards. According to the 'Road Law,' it is prohibited to allow vehicles that exceed the specifications of the road, unless they have special permission or protection." During the warm season, water and moisture accumulate on roads, reducing load-bearing capacity and strength, leading to potholes and cracks if weight limits are exceeded, posing accident risks and endangering the technical integrity of vehicles. Overloading is the primary cause of road damage and accidents, such as those last year resulting in about 500 fatalities.

Back to Table of Contents

Society

MONGOLIA: Without Accessibility, Participation is Impossible

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

People with disabilities in Mongolia face significant challenges. Despite government efforts and international agreements, their ability to participate in politics remains quite limited. The lack of a disability-friendly environment, scarce support, and widespread misconceptions make it difficult for them to engage in political processes. Nonetheless, D. Bilguun and E. Darkhikhuu are determined to overcome these barriers. Through their efforts, they prove that their voices play an important role in Mongolia’s future. "Overall, the political education of young people is poor. In my opinion, only about 20% of young people have political knowledge," said D. Bilguun. A logistics manager by profession, Bilguun was born with cerebral palsy and participated this year in the "Konrad Adenauer" Foundation’s Public Impact Program (KASCAP). Since 2020, the "Public Influence on Politics" program has supported the political participation of young people with disabilities in Mongolia. Its main goal is to strengthen their social and political activity and to equip them with leadership skills. For a week, they meet experts and leaders from various sectors, exchanging knowledge and experience while building a sustainable network of relationships. The lack of interest in social activities cannot be solely attributed to poor political education, D. Bilguun pointed out. The results of a 2023 survey conducted by the Human Rights Commission support this. People with disabilities aged 18 to 25 show the most interest in politics. Of those surveyed, 85.7% voted in the 2020 parliamentary elections, 84.1% in the same year's local elections, and 84.7% in the 2021 presidential elections. This high turnout was influenced by government efforts to increase the participation of people with disabilities in elections. For example, provisions were made for the visually impaired to fill out ballots in writing, polling places were equipped with magnifying glasses, and access conditions to polling stations were improved. For those unable to reach polling stations, the election committee provided portable boxes for voting at home. Despite these measures, challenges persist. The ability to vote freely and secretly remains a major challenge. In a 2021 survey, 90% of respondents said they could not vote without external assistance during the presidential election. Especially for people with intellectual disabilities, a specific legal framework is needed to limit the influence of caregivers. During parliamentary elections, many polling stations lacked necessary equipment and were not accessible. Furthermore, the National Human Rights Commission criticized that, while accessible booths and information boards are legally required for national elections, these were not regulated for local elections, contributing to lower turnout and discrimination against people with disabilities. In 2023, the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities called for better implementation of the convention guaranteeing voting support. However, this is insufficiently reflected in Mongolian legislation. The lack of barriers-free environments and poor infrastructure, especially sidewalks, are major obstacles. "Inadequate infrastructure is one of the biggest factors limiting our participation," said D. Bilguun. "The most obvious example is stairs. For people with movement disabilities, it often proves to be an insurmountable barrier." Replacing all stairs with ramps is not a realistic possibility. Most stairs are too steep, and the lack of handrails poses significant challenges. This is a risk not only for people with disabilities but for everyone frequenting public places. Standards should protect the interests of others and offer the best solutions. This should be implemented and monitored in Mongolia. E. Darkhikhuu, head of the "Independent Living Center" NGO in Arkhangai province and a KASCAP participant, agrees with D. Bilguun. Also born with cerebral palsy, Darkhikhuu is active in social life. They have participated in numerous recent trainings and events, highlighting poor roads and inadequate infrastructure as significant barriers to social participation. Limited access to public spaces leads to the exclusion of a considerable portion of Mongolia's population. According to the National Statistical Office, at the end of 2023, 111,200 people with disabilities lived in Mongolia, making up about 3.1% of the total population. Compared to countries such as Germany or Austria, this low percentage suggests a discrepancy between official statistics and reality. To improve the quality of life and participation of these individuals, Mongolia has revised its laws and established new structures in recent years. The Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities was enacted in 2013, and in 2018, the General Agency for the Development of Persons with Disabilities was established. New development centers were opened in several provinces. However, the situation remains dire. People with disabilities continue to be one of the most isolated social groups. A 2013 study by the Institute of Philosophy at the Academy of Sciences found that their level of restriction was 42.9%, 23.3 percentage points higher than non-disabled individuals in the same households and 28.1 percentage points higher than the average for other population groups. Although Mongolia has signed the international convention on the rights of people with disabilities, the reality is different. Many still find it impossible to participate in equal social life. Despite legal regulations, the necessary work, resources, and tools to ensure participation are often lacking. One attempt by the Mongolian government to address the issue is to increase the representation of people with disabilities in parliament. In a discussion on implementing the convention on the rights of people with disabilities, it was recommended to amend legislation, including measures to support political participation. This included supporting people with hearing, visual, and intellectual disabilities, emphasizing assistance for disabled candidates from small parties. For the first time, 126 members were elected according to amendments to the Constitution in the 2024 parliamentary elections. It raised expectations for greater representation of various social groups in parliament. Seventy-eight members were elected through a majoritarian system, and 48 through a proportional system. The ruling party MPP placed O. Saranchuluun, the executive director of "Achilles" NGO and someone with movement disabilities, fourth on their list, while the Democratic Party listed J. Bayasgalan, an actor using a wheelchair, seventh on their list. Both were elected to the State Great Khural, becoming the first disabled members of Mongolia's legislative body. The candidacy plan could have been long-term thinking, as the Political Party Law passed in 2023 provides more financial support to parties with elected disabled members. Unfortunately, many recommendations to support the political activism of disabled people were not incorporated into the law. This included the state’s promise to allocate 20% of support funds to strengthening vulnerable groups. The policy to support "small" party candidates with disabilities was also unsuccessful. Many laws, regulations, and instructions to support the political participation of people with disabilities, especially concerning electoral law regulation, do not achieve the expected results. Mechanisms for monitoring implementation and imposing accountability for violations are lacking. Among the political parties, initiatives promoting participation often remain superficial and heavily depend on the specific initiative of individual leaders or influential politicians. Running on a party list is the only real opportunity for disabled people to get elected to the State Great Khural. The opportunity to run in a constituency is extremely limited. The main reason for this is the high financial burden. Financing a certain portion of election expenses by oneself is allowed by law, and the thresholds set by parties exceed 300,000 euros. This is unimaginable money for most people with disabilities. To address this, the National Human Rights Commission recommended measures in the 23rd report to support all stages of elections. This included financing campaign materials, special vehicles, and boards, and supporting sign language interpreters and personal assistants. The government planned to regulate state support, compensation, and tax exemptions by law, but the delay raises doubts about the feasibility of this plan. Although there is access to polling stations and the ability to vote, political participation for people with disabilities remains highly limited. Barrier-free infrastructure, accessible public transport, comprehensive information, and equal competition remain insufficient. Since 2006, there have been discussions about barrier-free access to public facility rooms and buildings. However, inadequate implementation, lack of oversight, and indifference from large parts of society render established laws and standards ineffective. Daily obstacles make legally guaranteed rights feel like an unattainable dream. Another reason for the inadequate political representation of people with disabilities lies in how society perceives them. Rarely seen and isolated from the public, most Mongolians have never encountered someone else's challenges or have no experience interacting with them. This gives rise to stereotypical misconceptions. Often, people doubt the intellectual capacity of those with physical disabilities. This doubt, coupled with a lack of political knowledge and real communication practice, weakens the confidence of many individuals. Yet, self-confidence is crucial for social and political participation. To overcome this self-doubt and engage in political activism, D. Bilguun decided to participate in the KASCAP program. This program provides confidence and motivation while imparting knowledge and experience and building a communication network. The program shows that only the affected individuals can actively participate and help fix the existing challenges. Although KAS and other foreign organizations provide assistance, nothing can replace your own drive and dedication, acknowledges E. Darkhikhuu. Through his NGO, he inspires other people with disabilities to take an interest in politics. The development of Mongolia also depends on their participation.

Back to Table of Contents

D. Bolorsuren: H. Battulga's Lawyer D. Purevbaatar Called Me About the Togrog Nuur Mine. I'm Afraid and Need Protection.

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Citizen D. Bolorsuren held a press conference outside the Anti-Corruption Agency regarding the Togrog Nuur mine. Her father, R. Dugerjav, founded “Togrog Nuur Energy” LLC in 2005. D. Bolorsuren stated, “Recently, I’ve been getting calls from various numbers regarding the Togrog Nuur mine. My father passed away three years ago. H. Battulga's lawyer, Purevbaatar, has been calling and writing to me. Additionally, there are online claims that my father sold the mine for 1.3 million dollars. "My father was a scientist with a PhD, a professor, and had served as an Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary. He traveled to Antarctica seven times and acquired land there. He was a healthy man. In 2005, my father and some associates established a smokeless fuel plant at the Togrog Nuur site and in 2008 produced 'Noyon Biki' smokeless fuel. My father held a 20% share of the site and was the executive director. In 2009, the Togrog Nuur site was sold to the Chinese at the Hong Kong stock exchange for 250 million dollars. They took our 20% share without permission and transferred it further. We went through three courts trying to get our 20 percent, but to no avail. "It's distressing to see the Togrog Nuur site's issue being raised politically at the level of the Parliament and the Government. As a citizen, I decided to submit the materials I have to the Anti-Corruption Agency. Otherwise, it seems they're not allowing my father's soul to rest in peace, falsely claiming he sold it for 1.3 billion dollars. "I am receiving calls and messages from unidentified numbers. I am scared. I need protection."

Back to Table of Contents

Environment

Discussing pressing issues such as climate change and biodiversity loss

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Minister of Environment and Climate Change, S. Odontuya, participated in a high-level ministerial discussion about the triple environmental crisis facing Central Asia. This discussion, held in Samarkand, Republic of Uzbekistan, involved ministers responsible for environmental issues from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Mongolia. They discussed pressing issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental pollution facing humanity. During the discussion, countries shared measures and best practices implemented within the framework of climate change and environmental policy. For example, some Central Asian countries presented their successful experiences in developing fruit orchards, planting drought-resistant trees and shrubs in arid areas, expanding urban green spaces, and training human resources to achieve tangible results. Mongolia shared its experience in involving the private sector in the implementation of the "Billion Trees" national movement, establishing the Environmental Protection Trust Fund to create a sustainable financing system for environmental protection, and concrete actions being taken to build ponds and protect endangered wildlife. In the Central Asian region, the effects of climate change are commonly observed. Accelerating melting of glaciers and decreasing water resources pose risks to food security, exacerbate river shrinkage, land degradation, and ecosystem scarcity. The desiccation and desertification of the Aral Sea is a clear example of the environmental challenges facing this region. Under these conditions, participating countries have exchanged experiences and proposed cooperation in implementing studies, projects, and programs at the regional level, and discussed cooperating in training human resources at the Green University of the Republic of Uzbekistan, according to the Ministry of Environment and Tourism.

Back to Table of Contents

KHOVSGOL: Will Cooperate with Germany to Preserve Environmental Balance

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Khovsgol Province is expanding its international relations and has initiated collaborations with Baruth, Germany; Japan; Dandong, China; Irkutsk, Russia; and Daejeon, South Korea. The focus of these collaborations includes education, health, culture and arts, and tourism. The Governor of Khovsgol Province, L. Tumurbaatar, welcomed Helmut Rudolf Kulitzi, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Germany to Mongolia. Governor Tumurbaatar noted that Murun County has been actively collaborating with Baruth Mark, Germany, since 2011 in the areas of economy, environment, and education. Ambassador Helmut Rudolf Kulitzi is visiting Khovsgol Province for the first time. The natural beauty and traditional culture of the Khovsgol region attract significant interest from both German citizens and tourists from the region. He proposed further cooperation to maintain the ecological balance in Khovsgol Province. During the meeting, they agreed to expand cooperation to ensure environmental balance and to enhance human resource capacity.

Back to Table of Contents

"Oyu Tolgoi" Company to Leave Behind 100 Million Trees

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: ikon.mn

In 2021, the President of Mongolia, U. Khurelsukh, announced from the platform of the UN General Assembly a national movement to plant billions of trees by 2030. Following this initiative, numerous state and private organizations have joined the "Billion Trees" national movement, including "Oyu Tolgoi" company, which pledged to plant 100 million trees. The program "Let Us Leave Behind 100 Million Trees" is divided into two main parts: actual planting and growing of trees, and compensatory activities. Specifically, within the framework of reforestation, they have planted and grown 1.3 million trees, while investments have been made in forestry sector infrastructure equivalent to planting and growing 19.2 million trees, resulting in a total of 20.5 million trees being planted and grown in terms of performance. Reforestation efforts have been carried out in areas such as Bogd Khan Mountain, Altanbulag soum of Selenge aimag, and Manlai, Bayan-Ovoo, and Khanbogd soums of Umnugovi aimag. Since planting trees yields long-term results based on proper planting and constant care, "Oyu Tolgoi" company has been paying special attention to the sustainable growth of each planted tree. During 2023 and 2024, within the framework of forestry sector restoration, 615.9 hectares of damaged and abandoned land will undergo restoration, and five new fully mechanized modern tree nurseries have been established. Additionally, ten packages of 8 types comprising 80 pieces of equipment worth 1.5 billion MNT have been handed over to the Forestry Authority, a government implementing agency, to develop forestry sector infrastructure. Moreover, experiments comparing traditional seed and cutting planting methods with new drone-based seed bomb planting technology have been conducted, and scholarships have been awarded to 10 students studying environmental and forestry engineering. Mass reforestation projects for 2022-2024 include planting 70 hectares at Turgenii Valley in Bogd Khan Mountain, 400 hectares in Altanbulag soum of Selenge aimag, and 60 hectares in Khanbogd, Bayan-Ovoo, and Manlai soums of Umnugovi aimag, as well as forest strips along the roads in Khanbogd soum. The newly planted trees faced risks of being trampled and eaten by livestock and wild animals. The main preventive method to protect against this issue is to fence around the reforested areas and maintain the integrity of these fences. Implementing tree planting activities in a mutually beneficial way with local herders is particularly important. An increasing number of livestock has been viewed as a major factor contributing to overgrazing, land degradation, and desertification, although traditional pastoral livestock has been the main livelihood for our country for generations. Therefore, "Oyu Tolgoi" company aims to collaborate with herders by implementing mutually beneficial new schemes for its reforestation projects. Protecting the reforestation areas is required, and for this, the company is offering the following solutions to increase herders' involvement in some of its projects: - Making herders contracted guards of the reforestation areas; - Planting economically beneficial fruit trees within fenced areas, allowing herders to benefit from the yield; - Transferring fence ownership to herders once the planted trees have sustainably grown; - Purchasing seeds and cuttings prepared by herders; - Allocating land for haymaking and reforestation. On March 24, 2025, "Oyu Tolgoi" company organized a joint discussion with the Forestry Authority, professional forestry organizations, the Environmental Authority, scientists, researchers, and various stakeholders under the theme "Trees and Livestock as Friends." The event successfully discussed important issues such as implementing the "Let Us Leave Behind 100 Million Trees" program, creating mutually beneficial reforestation work with herders living near reforestation sites, establishing mass reforestation and road corridors in the Gobi and Khangai regions, and collaborating on floodplain reforestations with herders. Within the "Let Us Leave Behind 100 Million Trees" program, "Oyu Tolgoi" company not only plants trees but also implements comprehensive work such as forestry sector investments, restoration, expanding collaboration with herders, and introducing advanced technologies. Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social and Web pages) are prohibited from using our information either in full or in part in any form, except with agreement and by crediting the source (ikon.mn).

Back to Table of Contents

Results of the Environmental and Livestock Impact Inspection Presented

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: montsame.mn

In recent times, information has been spreading online claiming there is a negative impact on the environment and livestock due to uranium. In response, a working group was established by order of the First Deputy Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat. Last month, this group worked in Sainshand and Ulaanbadrakh sums of Dornogovi aimag. The working group included representatives from the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the Water Agency, the General Authority for Veterinary Services, the National Center for Public Health, the General Police Agency, the Office of the Nuclear Energy Commission, the Radiation Control Laboratory of the Standards and Metrology Agency, "Mon-Atom" LLC, and local organizations. They aimed to clarify, scrutinize, evaluate, and provide truthful information to the public about the ongoing discussions among citizens. The group aimed to determine whether there were any adverse radiological effects on human and animal health or the environment. They collected samples from various points such as herders' spring camps, animal enclosures, pastures, and hand-dug wells for analysis. The findings concluded that the levels were not exceeding or were below the acceptable standards. For instance, no radioactive substances were found in the samples taken from the aborted twin kid of a herder named D. Norsuren and from a deformed lamb of herder N. Batbaatar in the 1st bagh of Ulaanbadrakh sum. According to the measurement and analysis results, the working group indicated that there are no significant adverse effects on the health of the local population, livestock, or the environment in the region, as previously reported by the working group.

Back to Table of Contents

SELENGA: A Warning on the Need for Implementing Disaster Risk Reduction Policies

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Deputy Chairman of the National Emergency Management Agency and Head of the Emergency Management Agency, Major General G. Ariunbuyan, is working in Selenge Province. He participated in the regular meeting of the Emergency Commission of the province, familiarized himself with the current situation, and provided relevant instructions. Over the past four years, Selenge province has experienced a total of 674 incidents and disasters, during which emergency personnel have saved 530 lives and protected assets worth 13.5 billion tögrögs belonging to both the public and private sectors. In collaboration with the "Keys to Success" Training Center and within the framework of the Occupational Health and Safety Management System ISO 45001:2018 and Quality Management System ISO 9001:2015 standards, they have trained 34 staff members to specialize in these areas. Furthermore, to improve the working conditions of the staff, a total of 361 types of developments have been carried out from 2021 to 2024, relying on internal resources and support from cooperating governmental and business organizations. Additionally, the "Rescuer Mazaalai" training room, the "Safe Household" methodical training room for disseminating disaster risk reduction knowledge to citizens at the household level, and the "Fire Safety" training room for organizing fire prevention training for businesses, organizations, and citizens have been established, and training exercises are being regularly conducted. Addressing social issues for the staff, a phased work plan is being implemented. Together with the Darhan-Uul Province Wedding Palace, the wedding ceremonies of six emergency personnel were organized. After reviewing the information, Major General G. Ariunbuyan emphasized the importance of successfully implementing fire and flood risk reduction and preventive monitoring and checks, which significantly impact environmental protection and citizen safety. He reiterated the need to improve preventive measures and warned about the necessity of implementing disaster risk reduction policies. In addition, during his visit to the Emergency Management Agency departments and branches in Selenge and Mandal soums, he familiarized himself with the work being done to enhance the organization's capacity, preparedness, and readiness, and listened to the opinions and feedback of the staff.

Back to Table of Contents

Most Wildfires Occur in Eastern Provinces

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: montsame.mn

In the past 20 years, 24.7% of the wildfires in the country occurred in April, while 54.2% occurred in May and June. During this period, 83.7% of the wildfires were recorded in the territories of Dornod, Selenge, Sükhbaatar, Khentii, Bulgan, Tuv, and Khuvsgul provinces. Therefore, the National Emergency Management Agency advises that every organization, enterprise, and citizen in these regions should be responsible and take preventive measures against forest and field fires during the spring days when the level of dryness increases.

Back to Table of Contents

Innovation

Mongolian and South Korean Startup Entrepreneurs Exchange Experiences

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Ministry of Economic Development and the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Mongolia organized the 'Mongolian-Korean Startup Entrepreneurs Forum' in Ulaanbaatar. The Government of Mongolia is making significant efforts to support non-mining exports. This includes improving the business environment, supporting private enterprises, and attracting foreign investment. During this forum, entrepreneurs from both countries shared their experiences on how to succeed. They were provided with detailed information on innovation-based startup investment, financing, and policies to increase exports. Investment opportunities were also discussed. I. Batkhuu, the State Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Development, stated, "The Republic of Korea is a developed country with major corporations that have demonstrated economic growth miracles. This forum includes about 20 young businessmen who have brought new business models and created wealth in a competitive market. They have all successfully launched their businesses domestically and internationally. I wish our youth could learn from their experiences and enhance their competitiveness. Startups are a risky business model. They require diverse policies and support. Our ministry considers investment and improving the business environment, specifically the systems supporting startups and innovation." South Korea supports its startup entrepreneurs with state policy. For example, they have incubator centers in each region to foster this type of business. They also provide tax and financial support to new entrepreneurs, allowing for mistakes. Companies working in sectors such as education, healthcare, culture, food, fashion, construction, and light industry participated from the South Korean side. Kang Nam Koo, founder of South Korea's Ingstory company, stated, "Our company mainly operates in education. We are planning to open cafes equipped for students to study. There are over 700 such cafes in our country. In Korea, those with new ideas receive various supports, such as reduced taxes based on income, offering cheap offices, and the government covering travel expenses. I am not sure what kind of support exists in Mongolia. I hope to gather the necessary information through the forum." During the event, information was provided on the current economic state of Mongolia, the '14 mega projects to be implemented from 2024-2028', and the 'Mongolia-Republic of Korea Economic Partnership Agreement.'

Back to Table of Contents

B.Badamtsetseg: We aim to implement digital tax audits

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The General Department of Taxation is working to provide advisory services that meet the needs of taxpayers, assisting in the voluntary compliance with tax laws, and focusing on preventing taxpayers from facing risks. The department is analyzing common violations discovered during tax audits over the last 3-4 years, categorized by industry and type of tax, with plans to conduct training, provide guidance, prepare recommendations, and upload content to online platforms. Additionally, during tax audits, they have been studying the gaps, overlaps, and conflicting provisions in tax and related legislation, as well as the difficulties faced in implementation. Based on this, they have developed proposals to amend the relevant laws and submitted them to the working group. For instance, they have prepared proposals regarding how to address the statute of limitations for tax reassessments, calculation of interest, liability clauses, and audits related to tax crimes and money laundering, according to B. Badamtsetseg, the head of the Tax Inspection and Methodology Division of the General Department of Taxation. In an effort to align the tax office's activities with international best practices, what progress has been made to improve the TADAT rating and enhance the electronic tax system? In cooperation with Japan's JICA, within the "Enhancing Tax Administration Capacity Based on Big Data" project, we are working to submit reports based on risk model results, conduct simplified audits for micro and small enterprises, and improve audit methods and workflows. We are developing the capability to conduct digital tax audits in collaboration with other divisions and integrating this into the Unified Tax Administration System, aiming for full implementation by 2025. This development will automate interactions with taxpayers based on risk analysis models, enhance the risk-based tax audit system, and create opportunities for increased tax revenue. What results have emerged from implementing a quality control system aimed at increasing operational effectiveness and changing staff attitudes? Digital tools are being introduced to control the quality of tax audits, with programs being developed to verify if decisions align with risk assessments before finalization. This will allow for the evaluation of audit quality and outcomes, and if audits are found insufficient, alerts will be sent to the inspecting tax officers for reevaluation. It is a performance operation without individual intervention. Additionally, we focus on holding tax inspectors accountable for inadequate audits and enhancing their skills. In the context of the OECD's Seamless Inspector Program and the Government Inter-Forum's Deep Dive Program, what activities are underway in the tax agency? In 2017, Mongolia joined the OECD/G20 initiative on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting. In 2018, we committed to revising legal frameworks, enhancing the capacity to counter tax planning and schemes, exchanging information for tax purposes (EOI), and implementing international standards for transparency. The comprehensive revision of tax laws approved by Mongolia's Parliament in 2019 includes significant changes regarding international tax law. Tax inspectors responsible for audit functions are regularly receiving online training on transfer pricing from the OECD. Through this training, they can fully grasp the intricacies of transfer pricing, international tax relations, and complex audits. During these audits, they assess whether transactions adhere to the arm's length principle based on the nature, economic substance, and necessity of transactions including interest, management fees, and terms of goods and services. Audits not only focus on transfer pricing issues but also on identifying risks related to tax evasion and tax schemes. Therefore, this year, the tax agency plans to train employees on complex audit methodologies, build a competency-based workforce, employ skilled inspectors in audit units, improve domestic and international cooperation, and support taxpayers in risk prevention through training, advice, and guidance.

Back to Table of Contents

Using Technological Solutions for Public Oversight of Political Party Financing

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The General Election Commission, in cooperation with the Open Government Partnership, Open Society Forum, Transparency International, and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), is organizing a seminar titled "International Practices to Define Requirements for the Electronic System of Political Party Financing to Ensure the Implementation of the Political Party Law." The seminar is being held to ensure the implementation of specific aspects of the Political Party Law by defining the requirements for the electronic reporting system. Magnus Öhman, Senior Adviser and Regional Director for Europe at the International IDEA Political Finance wing, presented on "Digital Transparency and Global Experiences: Electronic Solutions for Ensuring Transparency in Certain Regions." He discussed international experiences in reporting, analyzing, and openly publishing through electronic systems. He advised the development of reporting manuals and guidelines and recommended regular training for party staff. Öhman emphasized the importance of developing a system that allows government agencies to exchange information to ensure the reports are complete and meet legal requirements. The OSCE's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) is conducting an assessment of the implementation of the Political Party Law at the request of the General Election Commission. Legal expert Nadia Sirenko, election consultant Goran Petrov, and Fernando Casal Bértoa, a member of the Political Party Basic Team, presented preliminary recommendations on the Political Party Law during the international conference. ODIHR experts plan to meet with stakeholders from April 8-11 to clarify practical implementation of the law, exchange views on feedback and recommendations, and introduce additional changes. The recommendations are planned to be finalized and publicly shared in the second quarter of this year. The conference aims to utilize technological solutions to ensure transparency and public oversight of political party financing, to develop an electronic system, to study international experiences, and to facilitate information exchange. In addition to the international organizing institutions, participants include the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), Armenia's Commission for the Prevention of Corruption, the University of Bristol in England, UN Development Program project consultants, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Finance, the Anti-Corruption Agency, the National Audit Office, Youth Oversight for Policy, and other civil society organizations. The seminar, "International Practices to Define Requirements for the Electronic System of Political Party Financing to Ensure the Implementation of the Political Party Law," will continue for two days.

Back to Table of Contents

Implementing Process Reengineering in the Police Department

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The Government's Monitoring Department has conducted Process Reengineering in the Forestry Department. In connection with planning to implement this in the Police Department, discussions were held with the leadership of the National Police Agency. Attending the meeting were the Head of the Government's Monitoring Department, Ch. Ünеrbayar, the Deputy and Head of the Strategy, Policy, Innovation, and Development Department at the National Police Agency, O. Ganbat, among other relevant officials. Head of the Government's Monitoring Department, Ch. Ünеrbayar, stated that the Process Reengineering to be undertaken at the Police Department aims to increase state productivity, ensure decision-making is optimal and realistic, maintain proper human resource policies, provide efficient and prompt service to citizens without bureaucracy, reduce the workload of employees, and achieve effective progress in the introduction of technology. He expressed the desire to collaborate with a unified work plan. The primary goal of process reengineering is to understand and realize the basic concept and significance of reengineering state organization operations, to provide support in acquiring the capability to implement it in practice, to analyze the current process to identify improvement opportunities, to plan and execute revised workflows, and to leverage digital technology to make the operations of state organizations and public services more efficient and citizen-friendly.

Back to Table of Contents

Currently Announced Scholarship Programs

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: news.mn

Information about scholarship programs with ongoing registration is provided. SELECTION ANNOUNCED FOR STUDY IN THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN Requirements: - Applicants for undergraduate level must be Mongolian citizens studying in the 12th grade of general education schools (academic transcript for the 2025-2026 school year with a grade point average of 85+); - Applicants for the master's program must be Mongolian citizens with a bachelor's degree (GPA of 3.3 or above, with work experience of at least 2 years); - Applicants for the doctoral level must be experienced Mongolian citizens with a master's degree and under 35 (GPA of 3.3 or above, with work experience of at least 2 years); - Proficiency in English or Russian at B2 level; - Must not have received a scholarship or loan from the Government of Mongolia. Additionally, must not be concurrently receiving a scholarship from any other country's government. Fields of study: - Construction and Urban Planning - Transportation - Mining and Extraction - Energy - Digital Development and Information Technology - Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry - Educational Studies - Teaching / Special Education - Educational Psychology - International Relations Registration will take place online from April 2 to April 25, 2025, until 10:00 AM. See details HERE. SELECTION FOR UNDERGRADUATE AND MASTER'S PROGRAMS IN POLAND Requirements: - Must be a Mongolian citizen studying in the 12th grade of general education schools (academic transcript for the 2025-2026 school year with a grade point average of 85+); - Must be a Mongolian citizen studying in the 1st or 2nd year of an accredited higher education institution in Mongolia (GPA of 3.2 or above); - Master’s program applicants must have a bachelor's degree, be Mongolian citizens (GPA of 3.2 or above, with work experience of at least 2 years, and under 35); - Must not have received a government scholarship previously. Fields of study: - Agriculture - Information and Communication Technology - Environmental Studies - Nanoscience and Engineering - Preschool and Primary Education Teaching - Special Education - Biotechnology and Bioengineering - Chemistry and Biology Registration will take place online from April 2 to April 15, 2025, until 11:59 PM. See details HERE.

Back to Table of Contents

Health

SOUTH GOBI: Cooperation with Korea University's Anam Hospital

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Dalanzadgad - South Gobi aimag is implementing phased efforts to improve the quality of healthcare services and empower medical professionals. Within this framework, a task group led by Deputy Governor of South Gobi aimag, J. Zanabazar, officially initiated cooperation with the Anam Hospital of Korea University in Seoul, South Korea. They met with the director of the hospital's international center, Jin Dong Young, deputy director of foreign relations, Jeong Jang Hu, and a professor from the ophthalmology department, T. Ariunaa, who is originally from South Gobi aimag. During the collaboration meeting, they discussed programs such as enabling medical staff to gain experience and specialize at Anam Hospital, inviting its specialists to conduct examinations and diagnoses for residents, and providing theoretical and practical training to build capacity. It was also discussed that residents of South Gobi with diagnoses that cannot be treated in Mongolia can receive discounted treatment at Anam Hospital. Anam Hospital and the physicians from South Gobi aimag's Provincial General Hospital conducted preliminary check-ups for local residents and provided telemedicine services, including remote diagnosis. Anam Hospital is internationally recognized for its excellence in healthcare quality and standards, successfully implementing robotic surgeries for thyroid cancer through the oral cavity, bladder replacement, breast reconstruction, pelvic lymph node surgeries, and robotic surgeries for bladder cancer. Deputy Governor J. Zanabazar remarked that this memorandum is unique as it has been authorized by Mongolia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It aims to implement significant initiatives such as empowering medical professionals between the two countries and providing up to 40% discounts for patients traveling for treatment due to diagnoses untreatable in Mongolia. Anam Hospital is also transitioning towards full automation with artificial intelligence, allowing patients to receive diagnoses without needing to travel physically. Specifically, patients seen at South Gobi aimag's Provincial General Hospital can be monitored and diagnosed fully by Anam Hospital remotely. South Gobi aimag's Provincial General Hospital is equipped with some of the rare medical equipment in Mongolia. This has had a positive impact by reducing queues in state hospitals. Procedures such as kidney dialysis, cardiac catheterization, and coronary artery surgeries are performed without delay within the aimag. In the future, there is a goal to expand foreign relations further with Anam Hospital and focus on empowering medical professionals while integrating international medical services into local health policies.

Back to Table of Contents

Arts

PHOTO: The "UB Food" Festival Introducing Culinary Cultures from Many Countries Begins Today

Published: 2025-04-08 | Translated from: isee.mn

In an effort to boost tourism and introduce the culinary cultures of various countries, the "UB Food" festival began today. This food festival will continue for a week at Sukhbaatar Square, ending on the 14th of this month.

Back to Table of Contents

Today's Stories

Politics

Economy

Diplomacy

Infrastructure

Society

Environment

Innovation

Health

Arts

Politics

Discussion of Merging the New Party into the Democratic Party

Economy

Foreign Exchange Reserves Exceed $5 Billion

A. Telmen: The Mongolia Mining Exhibition is a practical event that provides a platform for real meetings and information exchange among industry participants.

Defined Vision to Become a World-Class Tax Administration

J. Enkhbayar: There is a possibility of raising 600 million USD from cashmere

"Erdenes Tavantolgoi" JSC Sold 32,000 Tons of Coking Coal

Preparing to Submit a Draft for Tax Concessions to IT Companies

A Proposal to Include Non-Paying Residents in the Mongolbank Blacklist

USD Exchange Rate Reaches 3535 MNT

America First Policy May Lead to New Risks

UMNUGOVI: 5 Billion Tugriks to be Spent on SME Development Loans

"We Owned 20% of the Tögrog Nuur Deposit but it was Sold Without Our Consent"

Export Revenue Increased by 9% From the Previous Week

Agreement to Deregulate Taxi Service Prices Signed with Seven Companies

Diplomacy

European Union's Center, European Driving Force: The New Phase in Relations Between the Czech Republic, Poland, and Mongolia - I

Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Mongolia Visits Uzbekistan's Senate Chairwoman Tanzila Narbayeva

Infrastructure

$594 Million Investment Required to Build Multilevel Intersections at 18 Locations, Including the Central Post Office and Ministry of Foreign Affairs

A 102 Kilometer Railway Will Be Built from Bagakhangai to Khunnu City

Schedule for Power Outage on April 9

Discussing Collaboration with JICA for Redesigning and Upgrading Busy Intersections

Sukhbaatar: Government Agencies Begin Installing Black Boxes in Vehicles

Event Schedule: Press Conference on Current Affairs from the Ministry of Transport

Initiation of the First Phase of the "Selbe Revival" Project's Embankment Construction

Adjustment Made to Temporarily Halt Transportation Over 44 Tons During Thawing Season

U.Onortsetseg: Unauthorized Fences Removed near 'Ambassador' Complex to Open Entrances

Sent an official request to change the standards governing road weight limits

Society

MONGOLIA: Without Accessibility, Participation is Impossible

D. Bolorsuren: H. Battulga's Lawyer D. Purevbaatar Called Me About the Togrog Nuur Mine. I'm Afraid and Need Protection.

Environment

Discussing pressing issues such as climate change and biodiversity loss

KHOVSGOL: Will Cooperate with Germany to Preserve Environmental Balance

"Oyu Tolgoi" Company to Leave Behind 100 Million Trees

Results of the Environmental and Livestock Impact Inspection Presented

SELENGA: A Warning on the Need for Implementing Disaster Risk Reduction Policies

Most Wildfires Occur in Eastern Provinces

Innovation

Mongolian and South Korean Startup Entrepreneurs Exchange Experiences

B.Badamtsetseg: We aim to implement digital tax audits

Using Technological Solutions for Public Oversight of Political Party Financing

Implementing Process Reengineering in the Police Department

Currently Announced Scholarship Programs

Health

SOUTH GOBI: Cooperation with Korea University's Anam Hospital

Arts

PHOTO: The "UB Food" Festival Introducing Culinary Cultures from Many Countries Begins Today

You might also like...

Mongolia News Summary for April 18, 2025

Mongolia News Summary for April 17, 2025

Mongolia News Summary for April 16, 2025

Mongolia News Summary for April 15, 2025

Mongolia News Summary for April 14, 2025