Apr 16, 2025 83 min read Daily News Summaries

Mongolia News Summary for April 16, 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

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

In the 15th district of Songinokhairkhan, A. Delgerbayar was appointed as the Executive Director of the "Traditional Medicine Liver Clinic Center" affiliated with the Capital City Governor's Office last March. Yesterday, on April 14, some staff members who had not handed over their duties, had created significant debts causing damages, and had not complied with the orders of the Director of the Health Department were dismissed. Additionally, major renovations will be made to the building of the Traditional Medicine Liver Clinic Center, and the center's operations will be expanded to provide pediatric and internal medicine care, which is in high demand within the district. On this subject, D. Amgalan, head of the Capital City Governor's Office, stated, "The Traditional Medicine Liver Clinic Center under the Capital City Governor is a public healthcare institution. Although A. Delgerbayar was appointed as the director a month ago, the hospital's operations have been disrupted due to resistance by the previous management. Therefore, officials who were obstructing the normal operation of the hospital have been dismissed. Furthermore, during the previous period, the Center incurred debts of 705 million tugriks for social insurance, 507 million tugriks for taxes, and an unclear 1 billion 26 million tugriks, causing significant damages. The officials responsible for this will be investigated by legal authorities. This year, a budget of 4.5 billion tugriks has been allocated for major repairs of this healthcare facility. With these renovations, pediatric, internal medicine, and liver disease services—which are desperately needed in Songinokhairkhan district—will be expanded." Regarding the situation of the pediatric department at the United Hospital of Songinokhairkhan district, the department head, Z. Ganchuluun, provided information. He said, "The district's pediatric department has a total of 130 beds for inpatient treatment. However, we admit 250–300 children per year. Also, the emergency department receives more than 150 children per day, and during flu season, 350–400 children are served, so we are constantly operating under heavy workload. In Songinokhairkhan district, there is only one department for 135,000 children, so during the high-demand winter period, some children are transferred to the National Center for Maternal and Child Health for treatment. Therefore, it is absolutely necessary to establish an additional pediatric hospital in Songinokhairkhan district," he said.

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Members of Parliament to Submit Draft Law to Reduce Personal Income Tax

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

An initiative to reduce the 10% personal income tax to 1% has gathered 100,000 citizen signatures in just one week. According to the Law on the State Great Khural (Parliament), if a petition submitted through the D-E-petition electronic system receives the support of 33,000 citizens, a working group can be established on the specific issue. If 70,000 signatures are collected, the matter is subject to oversight by a standing committee. Upon reaching 100,000 signatures, the issue must be decided by Parliament. In this context, some members of Parliament announced today at the State Palace that they are preparing to initiate a draft law on this matter. Member of Parliament J. Bayarmaa stated: "50% of those who supported the petition are aged 18-25 and 26-30, which shows that young people are heavily burdened by taxes. From a geographical perspective, 65,000 of the petition's signatories are residents of Ulaanbaatar, indicating that the tax burden is particularly high in the capital. The Joint Government's 2024-2028 action program states that low- and middle-income citizens will be relieved of the tax burden. However, as of now, government expenditures are increasing sharply. Moreover, the amount of taxes and fees continues to grow each year. In other words, our country's tax policy is implemented to cover budgetary expenditures. If the tax rate is reduced, it will have positive results such as increasing citizens' real income, curbing the shadow economy, and reviving the motivation of workers."

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Opposition to Political Appointments in State-Owned Companies

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: news.mn

The Mongolian Energy, Geology, and Mining Workers' Union announced that appointing political figures to all 27 enterprises in the energy sector, under the pretext of improving the governance and control systems of state-owned entities and increasing productivity and efficiency, is not only a violation of the law due to overlapping positions but also breaches the Law on State Savings. The Law on State Savings states: "It is prohibited to create new positions with similar roles to first deputy, deputy, assistant heads, or advisors under other titles and to maintain such positions for appointing any officials." However, officials have been appointed to positions with changed titles but the status of deputy, thereby violating the law. Additionally, the union opposes the establishment by the government of a National Energy Reform Committee with a multi-billion budget under the pretext of reforming the legal environment of the energy sector and improving governance. While management structures are bloated, long-standing debts persist, and companies claim they lack funds to increase worker salaries, it is wrong to create new positions in the energy sector with a three-billion budget. Furthermore, the activities related to the founding of “Erchis Mongol” LLC violated relevant provisions of the collective bargaining agreement in the energy sector. Originally, the company was said to be established to eliminate overlaps in state functions and improve governance and productivity. However, current observations indicate this is not the case. The issues regarding the governance of state-owned energy companies and reforms do not align with the policy and planning of the energy sector. Establishing “Erchis Mongol” LLC also violates provisions of the collective bargaining agreement in the sector. The agreement stipulates that in cases where an enterprise in the energy sector plans to suspend operations long-term or merge with another organization, it must consult with the union in advance. Yet, up to now, the union has not been approached in any way regarding this matter.

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A proposal was received to arrest G.Gankhuyag as a suspect for attempting to assault a high-ranking government official no later than today at 22:00.

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

State wrestler G. Gankhuyag has been accused of "threatening others," and the intelligence agency has urgently detained him. The period for which he was detained has ended, and the prosecutor has submitted a proposal to the District Court of First Instance for Criminal and Civil Case Procedures to continue his detention. According to official sources, the proposal to arrest G. Gankhuyag as a suspect has been accepted. Consequently, according to official information, the period for which state wrestler G. Gankhuyag can be detained as a suspect cannot exceed 22:00 on April 15, 2025.

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Amendment to Grant Mongolian Citizenship to Foreign Athletes Showing Olympic Potential Proposed

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

A proposed amendment to the Law on Citizenship aims to allow foreign nationals who have achieved or have the potential to achieve Olympic success to become citizens of Mongolia, regardless of the conditions currently specified in the law. Members of Parliament S. Byambatsogt, Kh. Gankhuyag, and P. Sainzorig have drafted a bill to amend the Law on Citizenship. Specifically, they propose to add the phrase "for sports included in the Olympic Games program, or" after "having obtained professional qualifications" in section 9.3 of the Law on Citizenship. According to official statistics provided by the State Committee on Physical Education and Sports, a total of 140,932 athletes were registered in Mongolia in 2023. Of these, 68,214 (48.4%) are in team sports, 23,798 (16.9%) in national sports, 15,824 (11.2%) in combat and strength sports, 17,406 (12.4%) in intellectual sports, 12,423 (8.8%) in measurable sports, and the remaining 3,267 (2.3%) are in para and military sports. However, the exact number of athletes practicing sports included in the Olympic Games program is not specified in this information. Therefore, the initiators of the bill see a need to create a legal framework that would facilitate the development of other Olympic sports and team sports in Mongolia by increasing human resources and opportunities for success, in addition to the participation of athletes, sports unions, clubs, and enthusiasts. Their goal is to attract top representatives of the sports sector to Mongolia by granting citizenship, using their skills to train the new generation. As Mongolia seeks to have foreign athletes compete in international sporting events under its name, Mongolian athletes have also participated in competitions representing other countries. For example, judo athlete G. Otgontsetseg became a citizen of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and shooter D. Munkhbayar became a citizen of the Federal Republic of Germany, winning medals at the Olympics and world competitions under those countries' names. On the other hand, Iran's judo athlete Mollaei Saeid became a citizen of Mongolia and successfully won a silver medal at the Olympics for Mongolia. Also noteworthy are Bat, a citizen of the Russian Federation, who successfully coached the Mongolian ice hockey team at the IV Division Ice Hockey World Championship in Mongolia, and the ongoing requests from various sports federations and clubs to grant citizenship to high-level professional athletes and coaches to allow them to compete under Mongolia's name. According to the current Law on Citizenship, passed by Parliament in 1995, the conditions for acquiring Mongolian citizenship include possessing sufficient means of livelihood, knowledge of Mongolian culture, official language, and the Constitution, and having resided continuously in Mongolia for at least five years prior to applying for citizenship. However, the law also provides that foreign nationals who have made significant contributions to Mongolia, possess highly necessary skills or expertise, or have achieved or have the potential to achieve notable success in any scientific field may be granted citizenship by the President of Mongolia irrespective of the above conditions. The proposed amendment would include foreign nationals who have achieved or have the potential to achieve outstanding results in sports included in the Olympic Games program in this provision. This would allow Mongolia to bring world-class athletes into the country as citizens, enabling success in international competitions and creating an environment for local athletes to gain knowledge, skills, and techniques from them. Countries use sports to strengthen national identity and pride, inspire younger generations with national values and ambitions, and develop tourism, investment, economy, social, and cultural cooperation based on sports. In 2024, the Mongolian physical education sector will celebrate its 100th anniversary, using the occasion to reflect on the achievements and lessons learned over the years, with frequent discussions and events by sports professionals. Experts emphasize the need to support and develop Olympic sports, alongside public physical education and national sports, and to make progress in training the sports workforce. Therefore, the drafters have prepared an amendment to add to Article 9.3 that the President of Mongolia can grant citizenship to foreign nationals who have achieved or have the potential to achieve outstanding results in Olympic sports, regardless of other legal requirements. This would increase Mongolia's chances of international sporting success by enlisting top foreign athletes as citizens and enable them to pass on their knowledge and techniques to local athletes. Additionally, participation of top international athletes under Mongolia's name would encourage youth to engage in sports, promoting a healthy lifestyle.

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J. Bayarmaa: I will initiate a bill to reduce personal income tax to 1 percent, supported by the Democratic Party faction

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

Member of Parliament J. Bayarmaa held a press conference about initiating a bill based on the citizens' proposal to reduce personal income tax (PIT) from 10 percent to 1 percent, which was supported by 100,000 citizens. During the event, Member of Parliament J. Bayarmaa said: "Citizen R. Shinegerel submitted a proposal to reduce PIT to 1 percent as a D-electronic petition, and within a week, 100,000 citizens supported it. Therefore, we, the Members of Parliament, must turn citizens' proposals into a bill. The Democratic Party faction has expressed its support for turning this proposal into a bill. Of the 100,000 citizens who submitted their support, 50 percent are aged 18-25 and 26-30, which shows that our younger generation is under significant tax pressure. Also, 60,000 of these 100,000 citizens are from Ulaanbaatar city. Although we have formed a coalition government, lowering taxes is a promise that was made in the political programs of both parties. The government has also included this in its action plan. Today, government expenditure is rising dramatically and these expenditures are funded by revenue. Of the 787,000 citizens paying social insurance, 50 percent receive a salary less than 2 million MNT. For example, a person earning a gross salary of 2.5 million MNT only takes home 2 million MNT after taxes. Meanwhile, the company spends 2.8 million MNT for this employee, including contributions to social insurance. Recently, taxes and fees have increased dramatically. For instance, the capital city tax increased by 100 percent, vehicle tax by 200 percent, and road use tax by 400 percent. Therefore, these increasing taxes and fees are becoming a burden for citizens. PIT increased by 44 percent between 2022-2023, which means tax pressure on citizens has increased accordingly. This year, there are plans to increase it by another 22 percent. On the other hand, government expenditure has been increasing by about 30 percent each year; between 2023 and 2024 alone, it increased by 36 percent. In order to meet these expenses, all possible taxes must be collected from citizens. However, our intention is to reduce this heavy tax burden on citizens. We want citizens to retain more of their real income. Taxes are usually increased to cover government spending, but now we must reduce government expenditure and leave more money in the hands of citizens. By removing tax burdens, people's real income will increase, the shadow economy will shrink, and work motivation will improve. Furthermore, trade and the turnover of goods will increase, and the capital market will become more active. Therefore, it is necessary to review the budget and cut expenditures."

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P. SAINZORIG: If non-standard appointments are being made, the board members of state-owned companies must also be dismissed

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

To clarify how many councils and committees with unclear functions exist, how many people work there, whether there are officials appointed in violation of the Law on State Savings, and whether this complies with legislation, Members of Parliament B. Enkhbayar, P. Sainzorig, and Z. Mendsaikhan submitted an inquiry to Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene on the 28th of last month. The response to the inquiry was received yesterday. Regarding this, Member of Parliament P. Sainzorig said, "In addition to the government, ministries, and agencies, there are 57 committees in operation. Some of them, it is said, were set up temporarily within the government's objectives. Councils and committees are established by law. Since the law clearly stipulates which ministry's functions are separated or consolidated, the concept of 'temporary' does not exist. Forty-two productivity managers have been appointed. For example, at a place like 'Erdenet Factory', it is reasonable to have a professional deputy director responsible for production. However, it is unacceptable to make direct political appointments without a selection process when it is unclear whether it complies with the law or not. For instance, despite having a Ministry of Energy and a responsible minister, an Energy Committee has also been established. It is not clear what this committee will do. Can the state budget be spent so inefficiently? While claiming to streamline the civil service, appointing people who serve only as the 'arms and legs' of politicians, who can do little more than scold others on the phone, under the names of councils and committees, is being opposed." He also stated, "If non-standard appointments are being made, then the board members of state-owned companies must be dismissed. Then, install your control managers." B. Enkhbayar: They Intend to Increase the Number of Productivity Managers from 42 to 100 Meanwhile, Member of Parliament B. Enkhbayar wrote on his social network, "In addition to ministries and agencies, the government has established a total of 57 committees, commissions, and councils, including 10 committees and four councils not specifically assigned functions by law. These 14 councils and committees have 90 positions, for which 30 billion MNT will be spent. The creation of streams of structures with overlapping duties prescribed for legally established ministries and agencies, the appointment of new staff who have not passed the civil service examination, and the transformation of the state into a bloated, unaccountable political patronage network are unconstitutional and hinder the effective management and governance of the state. By establishing positions such as productivity and control managers, which are prohibited under the Law on State Savings, giving them salaries and status equivalent to deputy directors, and making mass appointments in state-owned companies, banks, and organizations, a total of 42 such officials have been appointed so far, with plans to reach 100 soon. Many have been appointed under the guise of political alliances, starting from the aides of 'Jenko' Kh. Battulga and close associates. The rumor that the country is being run from the 15th floor turns out not to be untrue after all. I demand that this abuse be stopped immediately," he wrote.

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Economy

Excessive Budget Expansion and Declining Exports Set to Push Inflation into Double Digits

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: news.mn

We spoke with economist R. Davaadorj. - The exchange rate of the US dollar has surpassed 3,500 MNT. How does this affect Mongolia's economy? The Law on the Central Bank says that the main goal of the Bank of Mongolia is to ensure the stability of the national currency, the tugrik, so people seem to be blaming the Bank of Mongolia. What is your position? - This is an example of the government's policy measures missing the mark. There is no need to shift the blame onto the Bank of Mongolia. The reason the exchange rate rises is that the volume of foreign currency entering our market has decreased sharply, while the outflow has drastically increased, as can be seen from statistical data. Mongolia's economy is dependent on coal—let me give you a single number. Last year, export income was about 15 billion USD, out of which 9 billion came solely from coal. Prices were reasonable; a ton of coal sold for over 100 USD. Today, the price is around 70 USD, and not only have prices dropped, but sales have also declined, so the 'coal dollars' are not coming in. For this period last year, we earned 2.2 billion USD from coal, but this year only 1.2 billion. We're missing a whole 1 billion USD. And that's just the official number—no one knows exactly how much is lost through offtake agreements. This is the result of a policyless government that currently reigns. In the first three months of 2025, Mongolia's total foreign trade turnover reached 5.6 billion USD: exports at 3 billion USD, imports at 2.5 billion USD. Compared to the same period last year, total trade turnover fell by 504.1 million USD (8.3%), exports fell by 637.5 million USD (17.5%), and imports increased by 133.4 million USD (5.5%). Meanwhile, the excessive money from the expanded budget has flowed out of the country in the form of foreign currency, which is a major cause of the exchange rate surge. I warned last year, when this year's budget was being submitted: 'The 9.8 trillion tugrik capital expenditure will turn into foreign currency and flow out of the country. Almost all of the 26 trillion tugrik current expenditure will increase foreign currency usage. The over-expanded 2025 budget will cause the exchange rate to surge and increase inflation, with negative consequences. In other words, the budget itself will trigger a sharp rise in the exchange rate and price hikes. Rising inflation puts the middle class at risk, increasing hardship for pensioners and low-income households.' Decision-makers in government, by ignoring the advice of professional researchers and going it alone, have led to the current situation where the US dollar exceeds 3,500 MNT and inflation is at double digits. In short, the government's uncalculated decisions are now reaching into the pockets of low-income citizens. - Businesspeople say that political pressure, more than exchange rate pressure, is hindering Mongolia's development. Is this true? - I agree 100%. Our budget is now almost 40% of GDP. State-owned enterprises account for around 30% of GDP. Adding in tender-related companies, foreign aid and concessional loan-driven businesses, plus those who obtain special state permits, almost 80% of GDP is state or state-dependent. This makes one question whether Mongolia really has a free market. Recently, there has been a coordinated campaign to blame businesspeople for all problems, which many have noticed. This makes one doubt whether Mongolia has economic freedom at all. On the other hand, under the banner of public or people's property, corruption has flourished—not just in millions, or billions, but in trillions. This is more of a burden to ordinary businesspeople than the exchange rate. In the bigger picture, this is stalling Mongolia's development. - The government has decided to increase foreign currency reserves to 5 billion USD, but the dollar is still surging. What is the cause of this? - There are many reasons for the exchange rate increase. Our economy is highly dependent on imports. When imports, especially of equipment, machinery, and goods, increase, so does the demand for dollars. When export revenues, especially from coal and copper, underperform, the foreign exchange supply is limited. This creates exchange rate pressure. Double-digit inflation due to the expanded budget has weakened the purchasing power of the tugrik and pushed up the dollar. With high inflation, citizens and businesses prefer to hold foreign currency, increasing demand. In short, when confidence in economic stability is low, people prefer dollars, pushing up the exchange rate. Mongolia's total external debt has reached 37 billion USD. Servicing and partial repayment of this debt increases foreign currency outflow. Even if foreign reserves have increased, the Bank of Mongolia appears to be avoiding excessive market interventions to keep the rate stable, which I support. It is difficult to manage a free market through intervention but some stabilization in the event of sharp fluctuations is reasonable. As a consuming country, we cannot exhaust our reserves. Under the floating exchange rate regime, the rate is determined by supply and demand, which is healthy. I appeal to the 126 members of parliament: If you really want to support your citizens and businesses and develop the country, it's urgent to 'end budget expansion.' - Where is the main inflow for the increased currency reserves coming from? - Mongolia's foreign reserves have reached 5 billion USD. This income comes from mining exports, especially from coal, copper concentrate, and gold sales. The Bank of Mongolia's gold purchases have increased in recent years thanks to favorable legal and tax conditions. Purchasing about 20 tons of gold annually significantly helps boost reserves. Additionally, the Oyu Tolgoi project is a major source of foreign inflows. Foreign direct investment is therefore crucial. It is unfortunate that those in power lack even this basic understanding. I also commend the Bank of Mongolia for reducing the People's Bank of China's swap agreement debt from 2 billion to 1.2 billion USD. This has had a direct effect on the 'clean' increase of our foreign reserves. Loans and financial aid from international financial institutions such as the IMF and World Bank also helped support currency reserves. - How long will the effects of the policies pursued by the Bank of Mongolia and the government last, and how will they affect inflation in the future? - The Bank of Mongolia aims to bring inflation down to around 6% (+/- 2%) in 2025–26, and to stabilize at 5% from 2027. Although inflation was 6.6% in 2024, the expanded budget and effects of dzud (livestock winter loss) are causing pressure, pushing it higher than target levels. However, reserves reaching 5.2 billion USD and 50% repayment of the China swap debt have positively influenced the exchange rate. These policy effects may persist in the medium term, but declining export income, poor budget policy (expansion), uncertainty in external factors, and tariff-induced trade wars could have negative impacts. The government should focus on fiscal discipline and boosting mining exports. Especially, it is crucial to tackle the wasteful spending and corruption issues in state-owned enterprises for Mongolia's future. But I doubt whether today's government has such courage. The burden of foreign debt, major bond repayments, and falling prices for mining products all pose serious risks to the economy. Economic slowdown linked to US tariffs, and declining demand for China’s raw materials could compress export revenues and intensify currency pressure. Rising domestic electricity and heating prices will also trigger supply-side inflation. Since our country is a consumer nation and highly reliant on imports, increased import volumes will weaken the exchange rate, raise the prices of consumer goods, and further stoke inflation. In conclusion, excessive budget expansion and declining exports are set to drive inflation into double digits. To address this, the government should diversify exports, reduce import dependence, and the Bank of Mongolia should maintain flexible exchange rate policies. There should be opportunities to invite foreign specialists to advise and formulate optimal policies for budget expenditures and external debt payments. Empty-headed politicians are completely useless in the current risky situation. If the government continues down this path of "brainwashing" citizens, the country, households, and businesses will unquestionably face dire circumstances. - The Democratic Party has repeatedly declared it will defend the free market. Is it succeeding? - To be frank, it is not succeeding. The Democratic Party, as the opposition, lacks core governmental power and cannot directly influence policy implementation. It is regrettable that some of its leaders are expressing views contradictory to their pledges. Specifically, speaking in favor of populist promises and uncalculated government decisions deviates from free market principles. Just take a look at the level of criticism flooding social media. Moreover, the Democratic Party has failed to propose concrete solutions to issues like the exchange rate crisis and inflation that threaten macroeconomic stability. Businesspeople seemed to expect and hope for sensible decisions from the Democratic Party. I attended a session of the Democratic Party group in parliament yesterday morning. Members were addressing exactly these issues: how the bloated government and budget expansion are hindering business and what should be done to correct this. If the Democratic Party works with a more stable and practical plan, it could better fulfill its promise to defend the free market. In summary, the Democratic Party is attempting to defend the free market, but current implementation is inadequate, its influence on government policy is weak, and its personnel choices are unfortunately poor.

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Despite the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank being responsible for stabilizing the tugrik, the exchange rate has strengthened by 800 tugrik to the US dollar since the appointments of B. Javkhlan and B. Lkhagvasuren

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

The main responsibility of the Bank of Mongolia is to keep the tugrik stable. However, since B. Lkhagvasuren was appointed as President of the Bank of Mongolia in 2019, the US dollar exchange rate against the tugrik has continuously increased. Specifically, in 2019, one US dollar was equal to 2,663 tugrik, whereas as of March 2025, it is equal to 3,475 tugrik. In other words, over the past six years, the US dollar has strengthened by 800 tugrik against the national currency. Some members of the public blame Finance Minister B. Javkhlan for the increase in the exchange rate of the tugrik. This is because the primary duty of both the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank is to maintain the policy to stabilize the tugrik. According to Article 7.1 of the Law on Regulation of Currency, "The government exercises the following full powers regarding currency regulation: to increase sources of foreign currency and to take measures to improve the balance of payments." However, the exchange rate of the US dollar continues to increase, and the purchasing power of the tugrik continues to decrease day by day.

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The physical volume of coal exports has decreased

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The physical volume of coal exports reached 15.8 million tons in the first three months of this year, which is 1.9 million tons less than the same period last year. Due to the drop in coal prices on the global market, export income decreased by 934 million US dollars compared to the same period of the previous year. Comparing coal export revenues for the first three months of this year to the previous year, the decrease was 715 million dollars due to price changes and 220 million dollars due to the reduction in physical volume, according to the General Customs Administration. As a result of these factors, the demand for foreign currency has also increased. While commercial banks submitted bid requests to purchase an average of 165 million US dollars per week at foreign exchange auctions in the fourth quarter of last year, this figure rose to 192.0 million US dollars in the first quarter of this year, an increase of 27 million dollars. In order to reduce short-term imbalances between supply and demand and the resulting sharp exchange rate fluctuations, and to ensure smooth payments for strategically important goods and products, the Bank of Mongolia conducted foreign exchange auctions twice a week in the first quarter of this year. Due to short-term seasonal imbalances in foreign exchange flows, the exchange rate of the Mongolian togrog against the US dollar weakened by 2.5 percent in the first quarter compared to the beginning of the year. In addition, Mongolia's foreign currency reserves currently stand at 5 billion US dollars. According to the Bank of Mongolia's estimates, with the seasonal increase in activity in the mining sector, and growing foreign currency inflows from wool, cashmere, and tourism services until the end of this year, and with no major foreign debt payments scheduled until April next year, it is expected that the balance of payments deficit will decrease going forward, as reported by the central bank.

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Gold Price Increased by $693.9 per Ounce Compared to 2024

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Mongolia traded with 128 countries in the first three months of 2025. According to the National Statistics Committee, exports reached US$3 billion and imports reached US$2.5 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of US$465.1 million. The total volume of goods turnover was US$504.1 million, with imports increasing by US$133.4 million. The increase in imports compared to the same period in 2024 was driven largely by passenger cars (US$73.6 million), diesel fuel (US$21.9 million), vehicle parts and accessories (US$21.3 million), trucks (US$18.3 million), and mobile phones (US$11.7 million). Mineral products, machinery and mechanical equipment, electrical appliances, vehicles and their parts, and ready-to-eat food products accounted for 74.5% of total imports. On the export side, copper ore and concentrates accounted for US$291.8 million, zinc ore and concentrates for US$39.7 million, and fluorspar ore and concentrates for US$29.3 million. The price of gold increased by US$693.9 per ounce compared to the same period in 2024, and copper ore and concentrate prices rose by US$291.5 per ton. Of Mongolia’s exports to China, 48.3% was coal and 33.5% was copper ore and concentrates, while 99.3% of exports to Switzerland consisted of unprocessed or semi-processed gold. The price of iron ore and concentrates fell by US$7.6 per ton and coal by US$47.1 per ton. As of the first three months of this year, 49.1% of coal exports went through the Gashuunsukhait border point, a decrease of 3.4 percentage points compared to the same period in 2024. Of total imports, 33.1% came from China, 27.6% from Russia, 13.8% from Japan, 4.9% from the USA, 4% from South Korea, and 2.9% from Germany, totaling 86.3% of all imports. Of the imports from Russia, 76.7% were petroleum products, while 81.4% of imports from Japan were passenger cars, and 10.2% of imports from China were trucks. The average border price of imported passenger cars was US$9.9 thousand per vehicle, an increase of US$2.4 thousand compared to the same period in 2024. 50.4% of exports went through Gashuunsukhait, 21.8% through Zamyn-Uud, and 8.9% through Shiveekhuren border points, accounting for a total of 81.1% of exports. 50% of imports entered through Zamyn-Uud and 24% through Sukhbaatar border points, accounting for 74% of total imports. In March 2025, exports increased by US$23 million and imports by US$98.5 million compared to February. Precious stones, metals, jewelry, and plant-based products accounted for 96% of exports, while mineral products, machinery and mechanical equipment, electrical appliances, vehicles and their parts, and ready-to-eat food products made up 74.5% of imports.

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RE/MAX Has the Largest Real Estate Database in Mongolia – Numbers Don’t Lie!

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: ikon.mn

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At the RE/MAX system, you can learn from experienced brokers and agents and work together based on top world-class technology. Moving in step with the rapidly developing global market, learning, and growing together.
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With a globally recognized brand, your business can grow quickly and stably! Benefit daily from the business experience and knowledge accumulated over more than 50 years by highly developed countries in the real estate sector. We are offering you the experience and knowledge to advance your business by 50 years. In the first quarter of 2025, 231 fiery new agents joined RE/MAX. 231 new agents from RE/MAX MONGOLIA's region successfully graduated from the Fire Up training in Q1 2025. Future top brokers and agents have taken their first step towards their dreams, entering the real estate sector with professional, reliable knowledge and vital skills. From the day they knocked on our branch doors, they began their journey toward success, beaming with enthusiasm and shining eyes. We continue to expand our operations and train the best leaders in the real estate sector. Please warmly welcome them and encourage them on the road to success! 86 Graduates from the MOMENTUM training are ready to energize the real estate sector. The international Momentum training program, aimed at developing agents' skills and introducing new methods and strategies, was successfully implemented. In Q1 2025, 86 of our agents completed this training, arming themselves with new skills and knowledge, ready to shake up the real estate industry. RE/MAX MONGOLIA regularly improves its agents' skills and routinely involves them in training. Agents who receive training gradually get closer to achieving their goals by improving their sales, communication, and leadership skills. We are confident our graduates will achieve even greater professional success. Thank you to our agents who are always ready to learn and grow! RE/MAX MINI OLYMPICS 2025 RE/MAX's youth is a group with a unified culture and purpose. We successfully held the 2025 Q1 SPORTS activities, the "SNOOKER & POOL BILLIARD" and "BOWLING" championships, last quarter. We held our STRATEGY MEETING 2025 to implement world-class technology in our services. RE/MAX Mongolia's central office declared 2025 as the year of "SERVICE EXCELLENCE" and held a successful strategy meeting among all directors to discuss how the region will operate. On the occasion of our 10th anniversary, we aim to set a new standard in the real estate market in 2025, focusing on three main directions:
- Digital Transformation: Introducing world-class technology to our services, making them faster, simpler, and more reliable.
- Training and Development: Providing agents with world-class knowledge and skills, setting a new professional standard in Mongolia's real estate market.
- Service Quality Enhancement: Implementing international standards, forming a more controlled and efficient system. It is notable that in the Year of the Wood Snake (“Eldev Erdenet”), wealth, trade, gain, and prosperity are believed to thrive. Therefore, in 2025, RE/MAXers will reach new heights together. We are confident that we will implement the digital transformation, training and development, and service quality enhancement programs successfully and deliver the best services to all our clients. In Q1 2025, our sales reached 345 billion MNT, a 32.5% growth from the same period last year and an achievement rate of 104%. Together, we brought 4,605 real estate transactions to the market, of which 2,501 were sales and 2,104 were lease transactions. Also, we achieved a 38% increase in sales revenue, a 16% increase in the number of transactions, and a 7% rise in newly listed properties versus the previous year. In Khan-Uul district alone, we made up 41.9% (53.6 billion MNT) of the total sales. Here are the top 10 projects by sales in RE/MAX Mongolia's region for March 2025 (excluding garage and rental transactions). Good luck with your work in April 2025. 😊 Notice
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ARKHANGAI: The Khangai region will be developed not only through traditional animal husbandry but also tourism

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The inaugural meeting of the Khangai Regional Council was held at the "Ara Arena" complex in Tsetserleg city, Arkhangai province. The expanded meeting was attended by members of the State Great Khural (Parliament), Government members, leaders from Uvurkhangai, Bayankhongor, Arkhangai provinces, sums (districts) and baghs (villages), representatives from the private sector, international and local governmental organizations, scientists, researchers, and citizens. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene participated in the meeting and gave a presentation on the topic of "Regional Development Reform," introducing the 14 mega projects being implemented by the Government, factors affecting foreign and domestic politics and economics, and opportunities for developing the Khangai region. He stated that, under the new regional development concept, the government will pursue policy to develop the Khangai region as a sub-region specialized in traditional animal husbandry and urban development. He emphasized it is important for the results of regional policy to be directly linked to people's well-being and quality of life. He noted that it is necessary for the provinces in the region to gather together to resolve the pressing issues, and openly discuss what laws and legal amendments are needed. He expressed that special attention would be given to priority projects and programs in the Khangai region, listening to issues on the ground and making relevant decisions during these meetings. In particular, he specified that local citizens should especially pay attention to ensuring the benefits of the wealth fund, named after the Great Khan, reach the local population. In addition, First Deputy Prime Minister L. Gantomor, Deputy Prime Ministers S. Amarsaikhan and T. Dorjkhand introduced the unique features, development opportunities, and the significance of projects to be implemented for each province in the Khangai region. The proposals and recommendations from five sectoral sub-meetings were consolidated and discussed by nine MPs elected from the Khangai region to the Parliament. Proposals were made to accelerate and bring into operation the construction and assembly works of thermal power plants being built in the three provinces of the Khangai region, to resolve the increasing demand for heat and electricity through public-private partnership, to start a 340 km road project from Bayankhongor to the Terhiin Tsagaan Lake in Arkhangai for tourism development, to construct at least two factories in each province for processing wool, cashmere, and hides and skins, to increase the value added of animal raw materials, and to prepare by the fourth quarter of this year a detailed plan with solutions for foreign markets, technology, human resources, taxes, and investment environment for integrating animal raw materials into economic circulation. Further proposals included the connection of the 360 km Arvaikheer-Shiveekhuren border checkpoint road, 200 km road from Tsetserleg to Bayankhongor, 270 km road from Bayankhongor city to Shinejinst sum, cancellation and new selection of contractor for the 120 km hard-surfaced road from Dashinchilen-Orkhon Bridge, linking it to Ulziit sum, and Ulziit sum to Murun-Tarialan direction, starting the two-way, six-lane highway project on UB-Lun direction, preparing a feasibility study for the Lun-Kharkhorum road, initiating development of multi-level educational and research-industrial complexes and specialized colleges based on some state universities and polytechnic colleges, expediting planning and construction works for the "New Kharkhorum" city, and establishing diversified tourism clusters focusing on history, religion, culture, and health through public-private partnership, as well as administrative reforms by consolidating sums. More than 30 proposals were put forward by sectoral meeting participants. Regarding these proposals, the views and requests of citizens, positions of scientists and researchers were listened to, and the Prime Minister and government members answered all questions, discussed solutions for joint development of the Khangai region, and talked through projects to be implemented, pressing issues, features, strengths and weaknesses. All suggestions and recommendations from the inaugural meeting of the Khangai region will be consolidated and relevant decisions will be made during a subsequent government meeting. In conclusion, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene announced the establishment and formalization of the Khangai Regional Council, expressing the government's special support for developing the Khangai region not only as a specialized traditional animal husbandry and urban subregion but also as a tourism-oriented region. He stated readiness to direct tax advantages to support the development of traditional animal husbandry, and accepted proposals to diversify natural and historical tourism. Issues such as the initiation and review of the Baitrag Hydroelectric Power Plant project, completion of ongoing state-funded projects, accepting project proposals in the education sector as the next year is declared "Year of Supporting Education" by the government, connection of the Khangai region to Shiveekhuren checkpoint with an auto road, and a total of 17 agenda items will be studied and introduced for decision to the Government by Minister and Head of the Government Secretariat N. Uchral and Minister and Head of the National Committee for Oversight and Evaluation E. Odbayar.

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"Let's Reduce the PIT from 10 Percent to 1 Percent by Cutting Budget Expenses"

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: news.mn

Members of Parliament led by J. Bayarmaa gave a briefing today at the State Palace. She stated: "The spring session has just started, and there are many expectations from the parliamentary meetings. Members of Parliament are initiating a draft law to reduce the Personal Income Tax (PIT) rate from 10 percent to one percent. In just a week, 100,000 people signed an online petition to support this initiative. As MPs, we are obliged by law to turn public opinions into legislative proposals. This proposal is also supported by the Democratic Party caucus in Parliament. We are representatives of the people. The younger generation is significantly burdened by taxes. Although we are working in a coalition government, all political parties promised in their platforms to reduce the tax burden. The state budget expenditures have massively increased, and these are financed by increased revenues. For example, out of 787,000 citizens paying social insurance contributions, 50 percent, or 390,000 people, earn less than 2.2 million tugrik in salary. To receive two million tugrik in hand, one’s base salary should be 2.5 million. Companies must spend a total of 2.8 million tugrik, while PIT is levied at progressive rates of 10, 15, and 20 percent. A citizen earning 2.5 million tugrik pays 221,000 tugrik in taxes. Tax policy is being implemented to cover budget expenditures. We need to lighten the burden on taxpayers and save on budget expenses. Doing so will increase citizens' incomes, reduce the shadow economy, and boost labor activity, among other benefits. In 2023, the state budget was 22.5 trillion tugrik, and in 2025 it is expected to be 33.7 trillion—an increase of about 11 trillion. The city's business tax increased by 100 percent, vehicle tax by 200 percent, and road usage tax by 400 percent. As for PIT, it increased by 44 percent in 2022-2023. This year, there's a plan to raise this tax by 25 percent. In just two years, the budget has increased by 11 trillion tugrik, so reducing citizens' PIT by 2.5 trillion tugrik should cause no issues. In fact, simply keeping the state budget at last year's level of 30 trillion can easily cover the 2.5 trillion PIT difference. Those seeking work will find a way. Are we standing with our citizens or not? The increased budget is targeted at officials. Meanwhile, citizens are struggling to pay taxes. Instead of reducing government size and taxes as promised, the opposite policy is being implemented. Unnecessary expenses such as the Selbe River flood dam and food festivals are being made, among others." MP G. Ochirbat said: "Today, we must support and improve the environment for our businesses. The coalition government has aimed to establish e-governance. This goal needs to be implemented in practice. Since there is a sector ministry, duplication of public service functions in government must be eliminated. Although Mongolia is called a democratic and digital country, human interference remains high. Instead of tightening tax policy, we should relax it. We support citizens' proposals and will initiate related laws. As the saying goes, those who want to work will always find a way. We expect attacks from the MPP regarding this matter, but we have shown that it is possible, citing examples from international experience. In just a week, 100 citizens united and signed the online petition. We are ready to engage in a constructive debate with solutions."

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International Conference on Economic Cooperation between Mongolia and the Republic of Korea Held

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

As part of the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the Republic of Korea, an international conference on cooperation between the two countries was held today. At the opening of the international conference, a message was delivered by D. Amarbayasgalan, Chairman of the State Great Khural of Mongolia. Distinguished guests included B. Lkhagvasuren, President of the Bank of Mongolia; J. Chinburen, Member of Parliament and Head of the Mongolia–Republic of Korea Parliamentary Group; Choi Jin Won, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Korea to Mongolia; and L. Turuud, President of the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, all of whom offered greetings. Opening the international conference, B. Lkhagvasuren, President of the Bank of Mongolia, stated, "Since Mongolia's transition to a market economy, the Republic of Korea has consistently been one of our most reliable economic partners. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the Republic of Korea in 1990, our two countries have expanded their cooperation in all sectors and actively worked together in many areas, such as economics, education, arts and culture, science, and technology, developing an effective partnership. Today, the Republic of Korea remains one of Mongolia's main partners in investment and trade, and the people of Mongolia view Korea as a trusted friend. We are deeply grateful for the Republic of Korea's significant contribution to our development and for sharing its successful experiences with our country." Economic cooperation between Mongolia and the Republic of Korea has steadily increased since 1990. While the bilateral trade turnover was $2.7 million in 1990, by the end of 2024 it had grown to $620 million. Mongolia mainly imports passenger cars, trucks, tobacco, and cosmetics from the Republic of Korea, while exporting minerals such as molybdenum and fluorite, as well as cashmere products, to Korea.

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J. Bayarmaa: Reducing personal income tax to 1% will allow citizens to invest the money they keep for themselves in stocks, boosting the capital market

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Members of the Democratic Party caucus in the State Great Khural (Parliament) provided information today regarding the initiation of a law related to the citizen's proposal supported by 100,000 people to reduce the Personal Income Tax (PIT) rate from 10 percent to 1 percent. Member of Parliament J. Bayarmaa: The proposal by citizen R. Shinegurel to reduce the profit tax paid on personal salary and income from 10% to 1% was posted on the e-petition system and within a week, 100,000 people supported it. According to the Law on Parliamentary Procedures, there are regulations to turn petitions and complaints from the public into law drafts. Therefore, to support the will of the citizens, we aimed to initiate a draft law to reduce the personal income tax to 1 percent. Our Democratic Party group has decided to support this proposal. Interestingly, 50 percent of those who participated in the petition are aged between 18-25 and 26-30 years. This means that our young generation is greatly burdened by taxes. Also, 65,000 of the supporters are from Ulaanbaatar city. The Joint Government's 2024-2028 program outlines reducing the tax burden for citizens with low and medium incomes. However, state budget expenditures are increasing significantly, and these expenses are covered by tax revenue. According to data from the Ministry of Finance, 50 percent of the 787,000 citizens who pay social insurance contributions earn less than the national median salary. For a citizen to receive a salary of 2 million MNT, their official gross salary must be 2.5 million, and the company ends up paying 2.8 million in total. Recently, tax and fee rates have increased greatly. The city tax in the capital has doubled. The vehicle tax has tripled. These taxes and fees have become a heavy burden on citizens' shoulders. Our country’s tax policy is mainly implemented to compensate for budget expenditures. Reducing taxes will increase real income for citizens and limit the shadow economy. People's work motivation will improve. Citizens will be able to use the money that stays with them after lower taxes to buy stocks and make investments, which will help boost the capital market. The Constitution guarantees equal rights for citizens regardless of age, sex, place of residence, or environment. We are therefore following the principle of making the tax rate equal at 1 percent for all citizens. Member of Parliament B. Punsalmaa: The Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Budget has accepted the citizens’ proposal and handed it over to the Tax Law Reform taskforce. I am part of this working group. The working group is currently studying ways to reduce personal income tax. Internationally, this type of tax tends to be higher, but people pay it without issue because the state provides generous refunds to those who pay personal income tax. Such a system does not yet exist in our country. Until this principle can be established, I support the initiative to set a flat tax rate of 1% for all. Member of Parliament G. Ochirbat: In 2024, the state budget was 27 trillion MNT, with personal income tax revenue accounting for 1.7 trillion of that. We need to support businesses and broaden the base of our tax system. Investors are leaving Mongolia. If we implement a policy to open new markets and maintain existing ones, we can compensate for budget shortfalls. Russia, with a population of 144 million, has 1.5 million civil servants—a ratio of 10.4 civil servants per 1,000 people. Meanwhile, Mongolia has 225,496 civil servants, with one civil servant for every 65 people. Although we describe ourselves as an open, democratic, and technologically advanced country, in reality, many services are still administered directly person-to-person. This situation perpetuates corruption and bribery. Notice:
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Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

According to the General Department of Social Insurance, the revenue of the Social Insurance Fund reached 1.573 trillion MNT in the first quarter of 2025, increasing by 315 billion MNT compared to the same period last year. The main contributors to the growth in the Social Insurance Fund's revenue were the pension insurance fund, which grew by 259 billion MNT, and the allowance insurance fund, which grew by 23 billion MNT. The expenditures of the Social Insurance Fund amounted to 1.443 trillion MNT in the first quarter of 2025, an increase of 326 billion MNT from the same period last year. The main factors were the pension insurance fund's expenditures, which rose by 278 billion MNT, and the allowance insurance fund's expenditures, which went up by 26 billion MNT.

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EVENTS: The Trade Union Federation to Organize a Press Conference on Issues Facing the Energy Sector

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: ikon.mn

At the State Palace:
10:00-14:30 – Meetings of the Standing Committees will be held.
11:00 – Members of parliament led by J. Bayarmaa will give information about the citizens' initiative to reduce the Personal Income Tax from 10% to 1%, supporting a draft law based on the proposals of 100,000 citizens. At the Headquarters of the Confederation of Mongolian Trade Unions (CMTU):
10:00 – A press conference will be held regarding violations of laws and regulations in the energy sector, infringement of employees' legal rights and interests, deteriorating wages and social security, as well as working conditions and the impact on occupational health and safety. At the Shangri-La Hotel:
10:00-11:30 – AmCham Mongolia will organize a discussion titled "The Billion-Dollar Question: The Future of Mongolia's Tourism Industry". At the "National Press Center":
11:30 – Victims of a 33 billion MNT fraud case involving Buyn-Uukhaa-2, Tuul, and Shine Yarmag residential complexes, with the participation of government and law enforcement officials, will approach the Ministry of Justice and Internal Affairs following a request made through the National Human Rights Protection Federation of Mongolia.
12:00 – A citizen who suffered damages due to the fault of the Cinderella Hospital will give a statement.
12:30 – Information will be provided about the establishment of the "Association of Citizens Nominated for the 2024 Parliamentary Election" and about illegal actions in the current parliamentary election process. Notice:
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The Price of Male Goat Increased by 30,000 Tugrug, Steer Price Increased by 244,000 Tugrug

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

According to the National Statistics Office, the average livestock market prices report for March 2025 indicates that prices for all five types of livestock have increased. Specifically, the price of horses is now 1.5 million tugrug, an increase of 172,600 tugrug compared to the same period last year. The price of young stallions has reached 1.2 million tugrug, up by 79,000 tugrug. The price of steer (young castrated cattle) is now 1.6 million tugrug, which is an increase of 244,000 tugrug. The price of male sheep stands at 280,000 tugrug, 54,000 tugrug higher than before, and the price of male goats has reached 177,000 tugrug, up by 30,000 tugrug. Furthermore, as of last month, the price of male cattle was highest in Govisumber province at 2.3 million tugrug and lowest in Bayan-Ulgii province at 950,000 tugrug. The price for cowhides over 2 meters in length was 7,600 tugrug in March 2025, an increase of 1,300 tugrug compared to the same period last year. The average price for one kilogram of white cashmere decreased by 9,000 tugrug year on year, standing at 133,000 tugrug.

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"The management structure is bloated, indebted, and the energy sector, which cannot afford to increase workers' salaries, does not need a productivity manager"

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Mongolian Energy, Geology, and Mining Workers' Union held a press conference today, addressing the legal violations, infringement of workers' rights and interests, worsening of salaries and social security, and issues affecting labor conditions and occupational safety and health in the energy sector. The union raised and demanded solutions for the following issues: 1. Political appointments in each of the 27 enterprises in the energy sector have resulted in overlapping positions in violation of the law In the name of increasing productivity and efficiency in state-owned legal entities, changes were made in governance and positions called "productivity managers" were appointed. This violates the following legal provisions: - Article 3.2 of the Law on State Savings requires a control regime, and article 5.4 prohibits the creation of positions with equivalent duties and authority to those of first deputy, deputy, assistant managers, or advisors under other names. It forbids appointing any individual to such positions. - Article 15.1.2 prohibits assigning overlapping roles or creating redundant positions. Despite different names, individuals with the authority of deputies have been appointed. Political appointments on every single one of the 27 energy sector enterprises create conflicts in labor relations. Furthermore, the government set up the National Energy Reform Committee with a budget of billions to update the legal environment and improve corporate governance in the sector, but this also violates the law. Expanding management structures—already bloated and indebted—by adding positions with budgets of 2-3 billion, when there is no money to raise workers' salaries, is wrong. 2. The Law on State Savings contradicts other laws The Law on State Savings conflicts with other laws. There are more than 80 roles in the energy sector that are classified under hazardous conditions. Workers in these tough circumstances who wish to organize cultural or sports events are told there is no budget and that such activities are forbidden under the Law on State Savings. However, the Law on Physical Education and Sports requires organizations of all forms of ownership to promote employees' mental, intellectual, and physical development through active exercise and sports, and such budgets must come from the organization. Yet, the Law on State Savings prohibits using organizational funds for sports events. This contradiction between the two laws is evident. 3. Audits of collective agreements prevent workers from receiving additional pay and benefits In the energy sector, collective agreements between the Enterprise Trade Union Committee and management are governed by labor law. However, the Law on State Savings forbids providing allowances, awards, or incentives in any form other than stipulated in statutory law. When resolving workers' issues through collective agreements, audits claim this violates the Law on State Savings, which negatively affects workers' rights and interests: because of this, workers cannot receive extra pay or benefits. The goal of the Law on State Savings is to enforce financial discipline and limit wastefulness in all public agencies and government bodies. But its misuse is harming the interests of workers in state-owned organizations. The Mongolian Energy, Geology, and Mining Workers' Union strongly opposes this and demands the immediate abolition of positions such as control and productivity managers. Warning
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J. Bayarmaa: By Cutting Extravagant Expenses Like Food Festivals and Suspension Bridges, It Is Completely Possible to Reduce Personal Income Tax

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

Member of Parliament J. Bayarmaa gave information on reducing Personal Income Tax (PIT). We asked her the following regarding this issue. In her speech, Member of Parliament J. Bayarmaa said: “A lot of people supported the reduction of PIT in a very short period. We must absolutely consider the wishes and interests of the general public. The Law on Parliamentary Procedure stipulates that the right and obligation exist to submit and pass public petitions and initiatives as law. Therefore, I am considering to propose this law. Some members of Parliament, including the Democratic Party's caucus, have expressed support. There is also discussion about whether it is possible to reduce the PIT. The answer is that it is completely possible. When the budget expands, it means taxes are increased to cover the corresponding expenses. For example, the state budget for 2024 was 30.5 trillion, but this year it has risen to 33 trillion. In just one year, it increased by 3.2 trillion. If we set the PIT at 1 percent, the budget would lack 2.5 trillion in revenue. Thus, a budget adjustment would be needed and we must cut these excessive expenses. Secondly, reducing taxes will expand the tax base. With a specific lower tax rate, it becomes possible to reduce the shadow economy. The likelihood that people will honestly pay 1 percent tax rises. Most importantly, this is included in the government’s program of action. The People’s Party must fulfill its promise to reduce the tax burden. It was promised to streamline government and lift people out of poverty. But now, government is inflated and budget expenditures have increased. We must cut unnecessary expenses and nonessential investments. For example, they say they will build a suspension bridge. Most recently, they organized a food festival with state funds, selling rice with stir-fry and soup to the people. A dam was built for 20 billion. There are many examples of disorganized and extravagant government spending. All of this must be cut and trimmed back.”

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The Average Price of White Cashmere per Kilogram Decreased by 9,000 MNT Compared to Last Year and Now Fluctuates Between 80,000 and 160,000 MNT

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

According to the National Statistical Committee, the average price of one kilogram of white cashmere is 133,000 MNT, which is a decrease of 9,000 MNT compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, as reported by the provincial Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Departments, as of April 14, 2025, the price of goat cashmere in the provinces is as follows: In Arkhangai Province: 120,000–125,000 MNT
In Bayan-Ölgii Province: 90,000–100,000 MNT
In Govisümber Province: 125,000–130,000 MNT
In Dundgovi Province: 110,000–120,000 MNT
In Dornod Province: 160,000 MNT
In Sükhbaatar Province: 150,000 MNT
In Khentii Province: 150,000–160,000 MNT
In Orkhon Province: 135,000–137,000 MNT
In Ömnögovi Province: 80,000 MNT
In Khövsgöl Province: 130,000–135,000 MNT.

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Diplomacy

UN Special Rapporteur Conducts Official Visit to Mongolia

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Dr. Ana Brian Nougrères, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the right to privacy, conducted an official visit to Mongolia from April 8 to 14. On April 14, the State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, L. Munkhtushig, met with the Special Rapporteur. He expressed his gratitude for her visit to Mongolia in accordance with the open invitation extended to UN mandate holders and rapporteurs by the Government of Mongolia in 2004. He also highlighted Mongolia's support and cooperation with the UN, its agencies, and special mechanisms of the UN Human Rights Council within the framework of Mongolia's multi-pillar foreign policy objectives. During her visit, Special Rapporteur Dr. Ana Brian Nougrères met with representatives of both governmental and non-governmental organizations, including the Innovation and Digital Policy Standing Committee of Parliament, the Parliamentary Subcommittee on Human Rights, the Constitutional Court, the Supreme Court, the Office of the Prosecutor General, the General Intelligence Agency, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Family, Labor and Social Protection, the Ministry of Justice and Internal Affairs, and the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Communications. She familiarized herself with the policies and activities concerning the protection of personal data in Mongolia. On April 14, she presented her preliminary conclusions of the visit to representatives of the Government of Mongolia. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, she will present her final report to the United Nations Human Rights Council in March 2026.

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Sumo Grand Champion M. Davaajargal: The Emperor of Japan’s Upcoming Visit to Mongolia Marks a Golden Moment in the Relations of Our Two Countries

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

Sumo grand champion M. Davaajargal spoke to the media regarding current events. He said, “I spent two days in Mongolia and am set to return tomorrow. The reason for my visit is that my coach is turning 65 on July 6th and will retire from the Sumo Association. This coach has produced two grand champions from Mongolia—specifically, Harumafuji D. Byambadorj and Terunofuji G. Gan-Erdene. He also helped and taught me, always sharing his wisdom. In 2007, when I became a grand champion, he guided me through the champion’s ceremonial rituals and shared his knowledge generously. I am truly happy that he has been nominated for the Order of the Polar Star. The Emperor of Japan will visit Mongolia soon. Under the guidance of our teachers, we are preparing the students. The Emperor had previously visited Mongolia as a crown prince. This time, he will visit as Emperor. This signifies a golden age in the relations of our two countries. Going forward, I will continue to pass on the traditions and etiquette of champions—both in body and mind—to the students,” he said.

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SELENGE: Representatives from Biei City in Hokkaido, Japan are visiting

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Representatives from Biei City, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan are visiting Sukhbaatar soum in Selenge aimag. The guests are being received by the Chairperson of the Citizens' Representative Khural of Sukhbaatar soum, the heads of policy committees, and the local executives, with whom they are holding meetings regarding foreign relations and cooperation. During the meeting, the two sides exchanged views on friendly cooperation between the two countries, foreign relations, infrastructure, environment, tourism, manufacturing, and development projects. The governor of Sukhbaatar soum, T. Purevsuren, introduced the ongoing development work and the policies being implemented in the soum, as well as provided an overview of the area to the guests and expressed his thoughts regarding future collaboration.

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G. Zolzaya Appointed as Consul of Mongolia to Manzhouli, People's Republic of China

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: ikon.mn

L. Munkhtushig, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), handed over the consular patent to G. Zolzaya, appointed as Consul of Mongolia to Manzhouli, People's Republic of China (PRC). During the handover, State Secretary L. Munkhtushig emphasized the importance of providing high-quality, prompt, and efficient state services to Mongolian citizens traveling to and residing in China, without unnecessary bureaucracy, and wished G. Zolzaya success in her work. According to the MFA, the consular district of the Consulate General of Mongolia in Manzhouli encompasses Hulunbuir city and Hinggan League of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. The consular service is a component of the diplomatic service and has the primary responsibility of protecting the rights and legal interests of Mongolian citizens and legal entities abroad. Notice: Media organizations (television, radio, social media, and websites) are prohibited from fully or partially using our information in any form, and may only use it by mutual agreement while referencing the source (ikon.mn).

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Ambassador Sara Solis of Guatemala Received by Mongolian Officials

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Saraa Solis, the Ambassador of the Republic of Guatemala to Mongolia (with concurrent accreditation), was received by S. Sukhbold, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Mongolia to the Republic of Korea, at the Embassy on April 10, upon her request. During the meeting, Ambassador Sara Solis informed that she is planning to visit Mongolia on an official trip in the near future, to meet with representatives of public and private sectors, explore possibilities for importing goods and products from Guatemala, establish inter-university cooperation, and promote her country. Ambassador S. Sukhbold mentioned that Mongolia had submitted its draft proposal for a mutual visa-free travel agreement between the two countries and requested to expedite the finalization process. Mongolia and the Republic of Guatemala established diplomatic relations on July 3, 2006. Mongolia covers Guatemala from its Embassy in the Republic of Cuba, while Guatemala covers Mongolia from its Embassy in South Korea, according to information from the Mongolian Embassy in the Republic of Korea.

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Infrastructure

Electricity Supply Restriction and Maintenance Schedule for April 16

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Electricity will be restricted and maintenance will be carried out on April 16. We are delivering the schedule for electricity restriction and maintenance of lines and equipment to be conducted tomorrow, April 16, 2025. According to information from "Ulaanbaatar Electric Distribution Network" JSC, electricity will be restricted during daytime hours for certain households and businesses in Bayanzurkh, Chingeltei, Khan-Uul, and Songinokhairkhan districts of the capital city, as well as some households and businesses in the central areas of Tuv Province: Zuunmod, Erdene, Arkust, and Bayandelger sums. The locations where electricity will be restricted on April 16, 2025: You can view the detailed schedule for the maintenance of power lines and equipment by clicking HERE. Notice Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) are strictly forbidden from fully or partially using our information in any form. Usage is only permitted when agreed upon in advance and the original source (ikon.mn) is cited.

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LIVE: UB City Council Discusses Establishment of 'Ulaanbaatar Cable Car' Municipal Enterprise and 10 Other Issues

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

The UB City Council is convening today, with 26 out of 45 representatives in attendance. In opening the meeting, Council Chairman A. Bayar highlighted the historical 60th anniversary of the founding of Ulaanbaatar's four oldest districts and extended his greetings to all. Today's meeting agenda includes: 1. About the project for a "20-minute city" and its concept. 2. Approving procedures on improving the city's air quality, installing electric heaters and gas fuel devices in ger district households, and providing price incentives for their usage. 3. Amending the budget estimate for the Tuul Highway project. 4. Implementing the waste incineration and energy production plant project through a public-private partnership. 5. Establishing the 'Ulaanbaatar Cable Car' municipal budget enterprise and approving its statutes. 6. Registering buildings and structures into city ownership. 7. Transferring buildings and structures between balances. 8. Establishing a local budget enterprise for the Top 17 investment and construction projects, and approving its statutes. 9. Registering residential buildings into city ownership. 10. Discussing the dismissal of a member from the Board of Directors.

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Of the 28 Temporary Structures in the National Park, Only "Horse Country House" and "Action Dome" Will Be Built Permanently. MNT 50 Billion Transferred to the Capital's Jurisdiction.

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The 17th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification is scheduled to be held in Mongolia in the third quarter of 2026 at the National Park. The conference will last for 10-12 days, during which approximately 500 delegates will attend the high-level events, 300 will participate in ministerial meetings, and a total of 6,000–7,000 foreign and domestic delegates are expected for the general sessions. A proposal to establish a locally owned, economically autonomous organization responsible for preparing the necessary temporary structures and infrastructure for the conference was discussed at today's meeting of the Ulaanbaatar City Citizens' Representative Khural (City Council). During the session, City Council member J. Enkhjargalan remarked: "According to my sources, the total cost to organize the conference is 350 billion MNT, and out of the 28 planned temporary structures, two might become permanent buildings. After organizing the previous international ASEM meeting, organizations and individuals involved were investigated by legal authorities for wasteful expenditures. Therefore, only two permanent structures will remain from the 28? How will equal participation be ensured?" Battulga, head of the working group organizing COP17, explained: “The City Council has decided to organize the COP17 events on a 38-hectare area of the National Park. Out of this, 29 hectares are planned for conference facilities and roads. According to the City Architect’s guidelines, sketches for 28 buildings at this site are being drawn. As planned, two of the buildings—'Horse Country House' and 'Action Dome'—are being designed to be permanently constructed in that location. However, a final decision on whether they will remain permanent or also be temporary will be made following the environmental impact assessment. International conference facilities are typically constructed in vacant areas in a way that minimizes environmental impact and are dismantled two months after the event.” “In the 2025 state budget, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change allocated spending authority of 50 billion MNT to the capital. The mayor signed an order in January transferring this funding, and currently, core infrastructure—such as water supply, power, and fiber-optic cables—is being connected to the National Park's central area. In addition, spaces for citizen recreation and automobile parking will be improved. After the event, the temporary structures will be dismantled and the land restored.” He further clarified: "This budget has been transferred to the Capital Investment Agency, and according to the law, a contractor will be selected through a procurement process." The conference facilities to be installed at the National Park will be large marquees. During this meeting, a resolution was passed to establish the “COP17 Investment and Development Agency,” a state-owned enterprise responsible for starting and commissioning the COP17 conference buildings—funded by national and local budgets and other investment sources—in Ulaanbaatar for the 2026 UN Convention to Combat Desertification event. The mayor will approve the agency’s structure and staffing, with its operating expenses to come from the city budget, as stipulated in the resolution. Warning: Media organizations (TV, radio, social and web pages) are strictly prohibited from using our content fully or partially without permission. Only with agreement — and by citing the source (ikon.mn) — can it be used.

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A.Erbol: Geological Work Completed, Geodetic Survey 90% Complete for the New Ring Road Project

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: ikon.mn

A new 25-kilometer-long ring road is planned for the capital city. Information about the progress of the project was provided. Regarding this, A. Erbol, Director of the Unified Project Management Department’s road and road facility project, said: “The main structure of the ring road will have six lanes, in some places two levels, and tunnels, with a total length of approximately 25 km. As of today, the geological work has been fully completed, and the geodetic survey is over 90% complete. Before June 30, we will have the project confirmed and formalized by relevant councils. At the beginning of May, we are developing the feasibility study and submitting it to the relevant organizations for approval. Once the feasibility study is fully completed, we will select a contractor under EPC conditions and commence construction.” Regarding the geodetic survey, D. Tümen-Naas, Director of "Bayasakh Survey" LLC, explained: “Our company is working on the 1:500 scale topographical map along the New Ring Road. Along the 27 km road, we have investigated 51 geodetic points, flown 270 km by drone, and participated in the development of the topographical map. The survey work began on January 24 this year. During the process, the alignment was changed. The city mayor Kh. Nyambaatar and Project Director A. Erbol worked along the alignment and met with engineers. Then, the alignment was approved in a government meeting. Currently, we are re-measuring and plan to finish in 20 days.” The western turning point of the new ring road will be from the road built from Yarmag to the Station, heading to the direction of the Kharkhorin shopping center. By building a bridge structure over the railway in front of this shopping center, a vertical route will connect Bars-2 market and Enkhtaivan avenue to the back of the First neighborhood, i.e., Sodong neighborhood. The new ring road will continue through Khan Material and Bayankhoshuu. On the east side, from the turning section at the front of the 407th correctional facility under the General Executive Agency of Court Decision, and from the intersection of the "Da Khuree" auto trading center, vehicles will travel via a bridge structure or two-level road, directly connecting to the Tuul Expressway. In the area near the "Janjin Club" cultural palace, due to the presence of many tall buildings and complex land clearance, the bridge structure will continue to connect to the Tuul Expressway. With the implementation of the project, a "Complete Street" will be established, combining pedestrian and bicycle paths as well as green areas. Notice: Media organizations (TV, radio, social and web pages) are strictly prohibited from using our information in whole or in part in any form, and may only use it by agreement with the original source (ikon.mn) properly credited.

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Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene Familiarizes Himself with the Plan for the New City of Kharkhorum

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Today, Prime Minister of Mongolia L. Oyun-Erdene visited and became acquainted with the master plan and construction planning for the new city of Kharkhorum. The new city is planned to be established in a 189,000-hectare area of the Orkhon Valley, encompassing the territories of Khotont, Khashaat, and Ögiin Nuur of Arkhangai Province, and Kharkhorin soum of Övörkhangai Province. There are plans for a settlement zone accommodating 500,000 people, a Class 4E international airport, an agricultural cluster, a unified transport and logistics center on 4,800 hectares, and a tourism zone at Ögiin Nuur covering 2,450 hectares. The establishment of Kharkhorum city is mandated by the President’s decree and relevant resolutions from the State Great Khural (Parliament) and the Government. Accordingly, the Government's operational program for 2024–2028 includes the development of this city. In the initial phase, it is planned that half of Kharkhorum city will comprise green spaces and that electricity needs will be met through renewable energy sources. Implementers of the project presented to the Prime Minister that there is full potential for the city to become the economic hub of the region. Initial urgent issues include intensifying the exploration, excavation, and research activities at the site of the ancient capital Kharkhorum, the construction of a 6-lane, 101.7 km road from Ulaanbaatar to Lun, a 4-lane, 189.6 km road from Lun to Kharkhorum, and investments for the design and construction of a first-class railway from Ulaanbaatar to Kharkhorum.

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68 People to be Paid from the Budget to Work in the 'Dream Team' Establishing Kharkhorum City

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

Our government has long established a tradition of creating special units with dozens of staff members solely for preparatory work on future projects and programs. These units are led by party and politically-connected individuals, who are appointed to director and manager positions and enjoy privileges, causing the budget funds to be spent freely and without restraint. Over the years, numerous administrative bodies have been established and then dissolved under the pretense of advancing infrastructure and development projects, to the point that it's impossible to count them all. For instance, for the “Aerial Cable Transport Project” to be implemented on just one route in Ulaanbaatar, a state-owned company with over 20 staff was created, funded by the budget for 1.5 years, and then recently dissolved. Now, a new trend has begun: in the name of city building, more managers and a larger “dream team” are being appointed. The leadership of these “paper cities” is continuously rotated, their structures and staff numbers constantly renewed and expanded. Most recently, in August 2021, the government established the "Administration of the Khushig Valley Development" for the new Zuunmod and Maidar city projects, and in February 2023, the "Administration for Development Issues of the New Kharkhorum City." Now, the administration for the New Kharkhorum city in the Orkhon Valley is being restructured into an even larger and more complex organizational body called the "Mayor’s Office of Kharkhorum City." It is sheer extravagance and folly to create and staff administrative and working offices for an unestablished, not-yet-begun city project, and to pay around 70 people from the budget. Let's elaborate below. Initial administration established with 30 staff
The "Administration for Development Issues of New Kharkhorum City" was initially established with 30 positions. By the end of 2024, the administration had 27 employees, including an administrative head and chief manager, with three departments (administration, finance, city planning, investment, and cooperation). Two people have served as the agency's head so far. The first was Ulaanbaatar’s chief architect, N.Natsagdorj, followed in March this year by former Deputy Minister of Roads and Transport Development, L.Khaltar. The stated goal of such an administration was to provide unified organization and management for tasks such as planning, development, legal framework, infrastructure, and investment environment necessary for city building. However, if one were to evaluate whether the administration’s staff fulfilled these duties and whether the cost of their daily operations, salaries, and wages from the budget advanced the project, the result would be quite disappointing. Tangibly, there is nothing concrete to show for their work. Perhaps, if asked, they might say they produced paperwork, studies, and assessments. However, the main specialized tasks — such as the general development plan, environmental impact assessment, engineering infrastructure feasibility studies, road and structure designs — were all outsourced by tender to private companies, funded by the budget (just these four items cost 3.3 billion MNT). Even the concept of the general plan is being developed through an international tender, meaning "outsiders" will be doing the work. So, what exactly have the 30 or so budget-paid staff supposedly responsible for development issues been doing all this time? 3.8 Billion MNT Allocated Just This Year
The one thing the administration for the development of New Kharkhorum City has managed to do well is contribute significantly to the inefficient use of taxpayers' money. It's difficult to specify exactly how much was spent on salaries for the director, chief manager, and other specialists, but it was clearly substantial. Besides basic salary and bonuses, usual expenses of state organizations such as office rental, equipment, routine maintenance, business trips, outsourced services, and so on have all been incurred. According to "Glass Account" data, the Kharkhorum city administration was allocated 3.8 billion MNT just this year. Of this, 1.5 billion was for salaries, 308.9 million for office use, 373.3 million for supplies and materials, 300 million for trips and hospitality, and 94.5 million for equipment — quite a massive budget. To put this in perspective, a person earning an average monthly salary of 1.5 million MNT would have to work for 63 months, or over five years, to earn what this organization spends in just one year on equipment and maintenance — a staggering extravagance. Based on this year’s budget, it is estimated that in just over the past two years since the establishment of this administration, between 7-10 billion MNT has already been spent to maintain it, even just conservatively. Moreover, this amount is set to increase further, as the government has now decided to expand the administration into the "Mayor’s Office of Kharkhorum City." Expanding by Claiming to Abolish
By government resolution No. 136, dated the 19th of last month, it was decided to abolish the administration for the development of New Kharkhorum City and transfer its budget, rights, duties, structure, and composition to the "Mayor’s Office of Kharkhorum City," setting the upper staff limit at 68. The management structure now includes a mayor, chief architect, office director, and chief manager — four executive positions, with three departments (administration and management, city planning and development policy, public relations) and seven divisions for the office itself. In essence, this is simply a name change and expansion, not a real abolition. The administration continues to function as before, in the same location and structure to date, and now efforts are underway to double its staff numbers up to the new limit. As a result, the financial burden of establishing Kharkhorum City on the budget will only grow further. Who knows when a city will ever be built in the Orkhon Valley, or how long such a large number of people will be paid with taxpayers' money. This decision clearly demonstrates the double standards of Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene’s government, which claims to make the civil service leaner and more efficient. Despite loudly proclaiming efforts to streamline and enhance state services, they have assigned productivity and control managers to every state-owned company and established an office with about 70 positions for a city that exists only on paper — revealing their real priorities. The Cabinet Secretary, N.Uchral, who is a leading proponent of public service reform, is himself responsible for setting up the Kharkhorum City Mayor’s Office. Quite ironic, isn't it? Such government business proceeds both in public and behind the curtain. At this rate, if all 14 planned satellite cities in Ulaanbaatar get their own mayor’s office staffed with dozens of officials each, no one will be surprised.

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Society

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

A digital petition to reduce social insurance fees has begun collecting signatures from citizens on the D-Petition platform for public petitions and complaints. Citizen B. Batbileg initiated this petition, stating, "Could the current level of social insurance fees be reduced to 12%? We believe there are alternative ways to fund the social insurance fund that do not require such high contributions. If employees voluntarily transfer the annual dividend income from their 1072 shares to the Social Insurance Fund, the insurance fee can be reduced to 12% for the following year. This would help avoid turning up product prices or affecting inflation, and would help prevent the depreciation of the national currency." To date, 69,975 citizens have supported and signed the petition. If you wish to vote, please click HERE.

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A Day Offering Free Legal Advice to Citizens Will Be Organized Tomorrow

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: ikon.mn

With the aim of improving the legal literacy of the citizens of the capital, a regular event is organized on the third Wednesday of every month where citizens can receive free legal advice. The National Human Rights Commission will participate in the event, providing information and advice about its activities, receiving and investigating complaints and information. Lawyers and advocates from the Mongolian Trade Union Federation will offer citizens basic legal advice. This month's event will take place tomorrow, April 16, at the "Dunjingarav", "Dragon", "Misheel Expo", "Selbe", "Bayankhoshuu", the last stop of Khoroolol at "E-mart", and the Yarmag Administrative Complex Building B branch of the city's integrated service centers. Additionally, citizens can receive free basic legal advice by calling the numbers 75050801, 75050802, 75050803, and 75050804. Citizens can visit any of the city's service centers or call the numbers above between 09:00 and 16:00 to receive advice and assistance on any legal and regulatory issues they face, including civil, administrative, criminal, family, and contract law. The event is organized by the Capital City Governor’s Office in collaboration with the Mongolian Bar Association. Notice: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social and web pages) are strictly prohibited from using our information in any form, fully or partially, and may only use it with prior agreement and by citing the source (ikon.mn).

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Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

The police have intensified efforts to locate, arrest, and extradite individuals who have committed sexual violence against minors abroad through Interpol. Last week, the Minister of Security of Argentina announced on their social media that a suspect who had committed a crime of raping a minor in Mongolia and fled abroad was apprehended and handed over to Mongolian authorities. Reports from Kyrgyz media and Interpol's official X (Twitter) account stated that a Mongolian citizen, wanted for blackmailing and raping a 13-year-old girl through threatening her with pictures and videos on social networks and then fleeing abroad while under investigation, was found and arrested in a joint operation by the Kyrgyz and Mongolian Interpol offices and handed over to Mongolian authorities. Last year, more than 20 such individuals were brought back to the country through Interpol, according to the police. This year, sources indicate that the police have intensified special operations to uncover pedophiles involved in sexual violence against minors and individuals linked to drug offenses through Interpol.

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Tourist Information Center to Open at Choijin Lama Temple Museum

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The Choijin Lama Temple Museum and Mongolian Guide Tour LLC are collaborating to open a Tourist Information Center as part of their medium-term business partnership plan. The museum is regarded as one of the key complexes representing our country's history, religion, and cultural heritage, and is a featured destination in the itineraries of tourists visiting Ulaanbaatar. Accordingly, they have decided to establish a center to provide tourists with centralized news and information. In addition, there are plans to set up a gift shop alongside the Tourist Information Center, where souvenirs related to Mongolian lifestyle, culture, and traditions will be offered to foreign visitors. Ch. Buyanbadrakh, the director of Mongolian Guide Tour LLC, wrote on social media, “We are carefully selecting and collecting nationally produced products for tourists. We are busy with various works such as replacing the covering of the information center (studio ger), installing signage and boards, and arranging the interior. We are ambitious to make the Choijin Lama Temple Museum a hub for tour guides and tourists to gather.”

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Suspects in Child Abuse Cases Extradited from Abroad

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The police have carried out the extradition of B.N., who was involved in a case of sexually assaulting a minor and had left the country while under investigation. Following an Interpol Red Notice, his location was determined and the operation to bring him back to his home country was organized by the police. In December 2024, it was established that B.N. was living in the Republic of Argentina, and officials from the Ministry of Justice and Internal Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the General Prosecutor’s Office, the Criminal Police Department, and the National Central Bureau of Interpol of the Mongolian Police, in cooperation with Interpol officers from Argentina, Turkey, and China, worked together to secure his extradition. Currently, B.N. is being held at Detention Center No. 461 under the General Executive Agency of Court Decisions, and the police continue their investigation. He escaped during a probe connected to the rape of a minor in Sukhbaatar District in the fall of 2021, and in the summer of 2022, first crossed the northern border. From there, he traveled through several countries, eventually reaching the American continent. In addition, police have recently extradited another individual who had been internationally sought after through an Interpol Red Notice. This individual, D.B., also under investigation for sexually assaulting a minor, fled across the border in 2023. It was determined that D.B. was in Kyrgyzstan, and, working with law enforcement agencies there, he was detained in the fall of last year. Subsequently, the National Central Bureau of Interpol of Mongolia, in collaboration with Interpol officials from Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, organized the extradition operation.

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Citizens' Suggestions Now Being Collected for Local Development Fund Projects to be Implemented Next Year

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Citizens' suggestions are now being collected for project initiatives to be implemented with the financing of the Local Development Fund (ONHS) in 2026. The collection of suggestions from citizens of the 204 khoroos (district sub-units) in the nine districts of the capital has begun. Suggestions from citizens will be accepted until June 15th of next year. Citizens can submit their suggestions via the "ONHS" mobile application, the "E-mongolia" app, or online at https://onhs.mof.gov.mn. In 2025, the Local Development Fund will allocate 60.3 billion MNT for the capital, of which 60 percent—36.2 billion MNT—will be redistributed to the districts, and 40 percent will be planned for city-wide investments. By providing suggestions for the projects and programs to be implemented with these funds, citizens can help improve and beautify their own districts and khoroos, creating a child-friendly and clean environment. According to the 2024 survey, 40 percent of citizens aged 18 and above in the 204 khoroos participated by giving their suggestions, resulting in confirmed projects and programs funded by the Local Development Fund. In 2025, a budget of 24.1 billion MNT has been approved from the Fund for the capital, which will be used for investments and major renovations of hospitals, schools, and kindergartens. The Local Development Fund is one of the few budgets that is planned solely based on citizens’ suggestions. The Fund’s resources are drawn from a specified portion of domestic value-added tax, petroleum resource utilization fees, mineral resource utilization payments, and revenue from exploration and exploitation licenses. How to submit your suggestion:
Source: Public Relations and Media Department, Mayor’s Office Notice: Media organizations (TV, radio, social networks, and websites) are prohibited from using this information in any form, either wholly or partially, without permission. In case of agreement, the source (ikon.mn) must be cited.

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Environment

Ulaanbaatar to Collaborate with World Bank to Reduce Air Pollution

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Governor of the capital city and Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, Kh. Nyambaatar, met with Christophe Crépin, Manager of the Environment Department for East Asia and the Pacific at the World Bank, and a delegation of air quality specialists. During the meeting, Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar presented 24 mega projects aimed at improving air and environmental quality, reducing traffic congestion, and enhancing the quality of life for residents in Ulaanbaatar. He also discussed possibilities for collaboration with the World Bank. He stated, "First and foremost, around 50,000 households in the areas with high levels of air pollution will be converted to gas and electric heating. This work will be completed before the coming winter heating season, starting with insulating the houses and yurts of those households. Therefore, we have expressed our desire to cooperate with the World Bank on these projects and programs." Christophe Crépin, Manager of the Environment Department for East Asia and the Pacific at the World Bank, affirmed the World Bank's continued support and expressed readiness to expand and strengthen bilateral cooperation in every aspect.

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Warning about Forest and Steppe Fire Hazards

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

As temperatures rise and dryness increases across most regions in the coming days, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is warning everyone to be cautious about the dangers of forest and steppe fires. The agency has reported that on April 13-14, it received a total of five reports of forest and steppe fires in Tsagaan-Uul in Khuvsgul province, Bugat in Bulgan province, Khalkhgol in Dornod province, Mandal in Selenge province, and Khuld in Dundgovi province. The steppe fire that started in Khuld, Dundgovi province has been fully extinguished. Fires in Tsagaan-Uul (Khuvsgul), Bugat (Bulgan), and Khalkhgol (Dornod) have been contained, and efforts are ongoing to extinguish a forest fire in Mandal, Selenge province. Emergency response teams, border guards, and local professionals are working together to put out these fires.

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Discussion of the Winter's Air Pollution Hearing Report; Government to Receive Directions

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: ikon.mn

At today's meeting of the Standing Committee on Environment, Food, and Agriculture of the State Great Khural, the report of the working group tasked with preparing and organizing a general oversight hearing on air pollution and smoke was discussed. The report was presented by Member of Parliament and head of the working group J. Chingburen. In his presentation, he noted that according to Article 39.1 of the Law on the State Great Khural, petitions from citizens on issues of public interest are to be received electronically, thus establishing a legal environment for public hearings. With 71,452 citizens signing the petition, conditions were set for a public hearing. The standing committee established a working group on December 19, 2024, to prepare and organize the hearing on air pollution and smoke. The working group was headed by MP J. Chingburen, with other members including MPs and committee heads. Additionally, under a resolution passed on December 19, 2024, J. Chingburen was appointed as the chairperson of the hearing. The hearing was scheduled to take place on February 3-4, 2025, under the theme “Outcomes and Solutions of Implementation of Policies and Decisions on Reducing Air Pollution.” In preparation, four preliminary discussions were organized, with 194 citizens and 93 government officials participating. Citizens asked questions, received responses, and 28 people made presentations. The general oversight hearing was held on February 3-4, 2025 at the State Palace, with the announcement made via public media from December 26, 2024, to January 29, 2025. Aside from MPs, the hearing included representatives from six NGOs, 94 citizens, and two broadcast media outlets. In total, 104 participants were registered, including 64 from government agencies and 46 from NGOs and citizens. The working group leader presented the consolidated findings and recommendations of the hearing. These included: - Ensuring every household has a carbon monoxide detector due to ongoing health risks from improved fuel usage; risk assessment and mitigation by Tavan Tolgoi Fuel LLC and the Capital Governor's Office; - The Ministry of Health to analyze the health data of vulnerable groups and deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning, to develop evidence-based prevention and protection plans for targeted populations, and to ensure hospital preparedness; - The committee to establish a subcommittee on air pollution reduction, hold officials accountable for negligence, and amend relevant legislation; - To encourage individuals and businesses with incentives for reducing heat loss and electricity consumption; - To transition Ulaanbaatar from solid fuel to gas and other energy sources only after conducting risk, cost, and benefit assessments under household conditions; - To develop and approve unified standards for home and building insulation, introduce new insulation technology, and create competitive conditions among businesses; - Localities to develop and implement their own air pollution reduction and citizen protection plans, financed by local budgets; - The ministry to provide capabilities to measure all pollutants in localities and phase out solid fuel usage. Following the report, MPs Ts. Iderbat, L. Munkhbayasgalan, N. Naranbaatar, Ts. Munkhbat, B. Jargalan, and P. Batchimeg asked questions and made comments. For instance, MP Ts. Iderbat questioned the inclusion of personal accountability for maintaining carbon monoxide detectors, financial resources for compensating affected households, and MP L. Munkhbayasgalan inquired about supporting businesses involved in fuel and detector production. MP Ts. Munkhbat asked about reasons for increased pollution compared to past winters. Leader J. Chingburen replied that from 2019-2021, air was cleaner because raw coal use was strictly banned except in major city heating stations. Compressed fuel standards had been lowered to suit binders, and fuel drying technology was changed. Currently, there is no control over raw coal entering Ulaanbaatar. Over 5,000 civil servants used to enforce fuel switching during previous winters, but this important public awareness activity has now ceased. MP B. Jargalan noted that despite proposals and decisions over the past 20 years, smoke has caused the deaths of 779 citizens and 5 billion MNT was spent on reduction measures with little result. Thus, the current parliament is urged to take decisive action to reduce air pollution. MP J. Batjargal stated that as long as fuel and gas are used, emissions will occur. Therefore, he proposed to set acceptable emission levels for the capital, regulate fuel, stoves, detectors, and chimney technology, and strengthen oversight. It was thus resolved that the report would be presented by MP J. Chingburen at the plenary session. Afterwards, the draft parliamentary resolution "On Giving Direction to the Government" was discussed. MP J. Chingburen explained that, in connection with the outcomes and solutions of the policy hearing, the working group recommended giving specific directions to the Government. The draft includes installation and monitoring of carbon monoxide detectors in all ger district households, prompt action if detectors are triggered, daily communication of air pollution data, increasing information access for target groups, and developing evidence-based plans to protect vulnerable populations and public health, including behavior change and hospital preparedness. It also proposes to analyze deaths from CO poisoning, establish legal grounds for compensating affected households, improve coordination among government and non-government bodies, ensure regular reporting, and make funding and expenditure information publicly available. A total of 13 provisions are included. MP P. Batchimeg recommended the National Committee for Environmental Pollution Reduction be led by high-level officials to ensure inter-sectoral coordination. MP B. Uyanga supported including indoor air pollution in the resolution, and MP A. Undraa suggested revising insulation standards and building codes. Thus, the draft resolutions from the working group and MP B. Jargalan, along with additional MP suggestions, were consolidated. In a vote, 62.5% of MPs present supported discussing the resolution at the plenary session. The committee’s recommendation will be presented at the plenary session by MP M. Mandkhai, according to the State Great Khural’s Press Office. Notice
Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social, and Websites) are prohibited from fully or partially reusing this report in any form unless agreed upon, and must reference the source (ikon.mn) if permitted.

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Dornogovi: Earthquake with Magnitude 4.7 Occurred in Khatanbulag Sum

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

In the Khorgo Bayan area of Sulinkheer bag, Khatanbulag sum, a 4.7 magnitude earthquake occurred at 2:00 AM on April 15th of this year. This location is situated 265 kilometers southwest from the provincial center and 25 kilometers east from the sum center. According to representatives of local citizens, three strong tremors were felt during the event. The sum's Administrative Office reported that there was no damage resulting from the earthquake.

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KHUVSGUL: Efforts Underway to Fully Extinguish Fire

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

A call was received by the Khuvsgul Province Emergency Management Agency at 21:34 on April 14 reporting a fire at the Shinee Murun Shopping Center in Elst 7th bag, Murun soum, Khuvsgul Province. At the location, 52 staff members from the Emergency Management Agency with 6 units of equipment are working to stop the spread of the fire and fully extinguish it. Meanwhile, 72 police officers are providing security, and service workers from the Khuvsgul Usuvag Company are transporting water to the area. Staff from the Emergency Management Agency have safely relocated goods and materials belonging to some businesses and citizens from one floor of the affected building to a secure location. Shinee Murun Shopping Center is a two-story building with sandwich panel construction, measuring 73 by 43 meters. Over 260 citizens were providing services in various categories such as food, goods, cosmetics, and ready-made clothing at this center.

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City Council: Discussing Distribution of Electric Heaters in Ger Districts

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: news.mn

The regular meeting of the City Council continues today. During the session, a presentation was made by Member of Parliament G. Luvsanjamts about the "20-Minute City" concept. G. Luvsanjamts emphasized that urban and residential areas should be friendly for citizens, human-centered, free from congestion and pollution, and social services should be easily accessible. The development of the 20-Minute City concept is nearly complete and will be submitted to Parliament by the government. He also mentioned that not only Ulaanbaatar but many countries have abandoned the permit-based system for urban planning and this has resulted in unregulated construction. Many are now correcting these mistakes by implementing concepts like the "15-Minute City." The city should be composed of smaller units, with the core being education. Services like kindergartens and primary and secondary education should be accessible within 20 minutes. Currently, they are planning to divide the city into 14 units. Additionally, each unit should have a family clinic and a pharmacy. Each unit should also include green spaces and sports facilities. Local administrative buildings will be transformed into public citizen centers. During the meeting, 10 issues are being discussed, including the proposal for the 20-Minute City concept; improving air quality in the city; providing electric heaters and gas appliances to households in the ger districts; approving guidelines for offering discounts for the use of these devices; making amendments to the budget for the Tuul expressway project; implementing a waste incineration plant in partnership with the private sector; establishing a locally-owned company for Ulaanbaatar Cable Car and approving its regulations; transferring ownership balances of constructions to the city; and granting exemption to board members. The Speaker of the City Council, A. Bayar, also highlighted the historic 60th anniversary of the founding of the original four districts of Ulaanbaatar and extended his congratulations.

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Two Earthquakes of Magnitude 4.4 and 4.7 Occurred in Khatantbulag Soum, Dornogovi Province

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: ikon.mn

At 02:05:57 on April 15, 2025, local Ulaanbaatar time, an earthquake with a magnitude of 4.7 occurred in the territory of Khatantbulag soum, Dornogovi province. The earthquake's epicenter was located 21 km southeast of the center of Khatantbulag soum and 132 km southwest of the center of Ulaanbadrah soum. Geographic coordinates (Latitude, Longitude): 43.01, 109.29 About 10 minutes later, at 02:11:07, another earthquake with a magnitude of 4.4 was recorded. The epicenter of this second earthquake was 25 km southeast of the center of Khatantbulag soum and 133 km southwest of the center of Ulaanbadrah soum. Geographic coordinates (Latitude, Longitude): 42.98, 109.32 Source: Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics, Mongolian Academy of Sciences Notice: Media organizations (television, radio, social and web pages) are prohibited from using our information in whole or in part in any form, and it can only be used by mentioning the source (ikon.mn) with prior agreement.

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Pasture Plants Have Not Yet Sprouted in About 80 Percent of the Country

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

According to the report released by the Agricultural Weather Research Department of the National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Research, pasture plants have not yet sprouted in about 80 percent of the country. More specifically, although plants have started to sprout in some soums of Khovd, Zavkhan, Umnugovi, Dundgovi, Bayan-Ölgii, Uvs, Khovd, Govi-Altai, Bayankhongor, Arkhangai, Övörkhangai, Töv, and Dornogovi, the growth is poor and there is no possibility to graze animals. However, in most areas of Bulgan and Selenge, and in a few soums of Khovd, Govi-Altai, Töv, and Umnugovi, the situation is moderate, and in some soums of Darkhan-Uul, Umnugovi, Dornod, Khuvsgul, Bulgan, and Töv, the conditions are normal.

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Innovation

The Capital City Governor's Office Will Collaborate with Potomac University in the USA

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Capital City Governor's Office (CCGO) and Potomac University in the United States will cooperate in the fields of education, research, capacity building, governance, and technology. D. Amgalan, Head of the CCGO, and Andrea Kemp-Curtis, President of Potomac University, signed a cooperation agreement. With this agreement, the two sides will implement programs for cultural and conference exchanges, as well as student exchange, and will jointly conduct research on urban development, governance, and public administration, including the integration of smart city technology projects. Additionally, the agreement will enable urban and rural public officials to access remote learning opportunities and develop online course content and educational platforms. Previously, in 2023, the two parties signed a memorandum of understanding and implemented a program to improve the education and professional development of state employees in the capital city.

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ANA BRIAN NUGRERES: There is a need to operate an independent organization to protect personal data

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

Ana Brian Nugreres, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the right to privacy, officially visited Mongolia from the 8th to the 14th of this month. During her visit, she conducted observations and research related to the implementation of the right to privacy, including issues concerning health data, cybersecurity, surveillance, enforcement mechanisms, and more. She shared her preliminary findings with journalists yesterday. The final report will be presented to the UN Human Rights Council in March of next year. PROTECTING PERSONAL DATA IS A FUNDAMENTAL HUMAN RIGHT
Mongolia is the fourth country visited by the UN Special Rapporteur. She noted after exchanges with various officials that it is crucial to implant the idea that protecting personal data is a fundamental human right in people's minds. She highlighted that accepting this and developing specific policy adjustments are needed. Protecting personal information can be carried out through complaint review procedures, audits, or oversight by independent bodies. Ana Brian Nugreres said, "Mongolia adopted the Law on the Protection of Personal Data in 2021 and began implementing it in May 2022, marking a much-needed update in the country's legal framework. While this was a significant advancement, additional changes and improvements are needed to establish effective enforcement mechanisms. When speaking with private companies, they indicated that the lack of public awareness and knowledge about privacy rights is the most pressing issue. Increased public education would allow citizens to better protect their information and prevent violations." Mongolia’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is the sole mechanism for overseeing the implementation of privacy laws, issuing recommendations and directing relevant agencies. However, it lacks the authority to impose compulsory measures to restore violated rights. To ensure the efficient protection of personal and sensitive information, there is a need to establish a truly independent Data Protection Authority (DPA). This body must have the power to issue mandatory decisions and impose penalties depending on the harm caused, thus creating a strong oversight mechanism to protect citizens’ data. There is also a lack of understanding among citizens about consent regarding the collection or use of personal data. While the government has prioritized building the legal framework, effective implementation is crucial. For this, building professional capacity—including bilateral cooperation regarding cross-border data transfers—remains an urgent issue. She described "E-Mongolia," an integrated digital platform offering over 1,000 government services online, via mobile app, and self-service kiosks. Over 60% of the population is registered on this system. PEOPLE LACK SUFFICIENT INFORMATION ABOUT THEIR RIGHTS
She continued, "If legislation was effectively implemented, people would be better aware of their rights to personal data protection and would file more complaints about violations. However, in reality, complaints are very few or nearly absent, indicating a lack of understanding or awareness about these rights.” Officials recognize the challenges and future risks as the country transitions to digital systems in the economy, health, social welfare, and labor sectors, and acknowledge the need to continuously improve the legal and regulatory environment protecting the constitutional right to privacy. The preliminary report points out that Mongolia, like other countries, is experiencing many cyberattacks. For example, in 2024, there were 1.6 million cyber incidents and 13,061 cybercrimes. The General Intelligence Agency investigates breaches under five different laws. More streamlined legislation would improve responses to cyber threats. The risk of psychological and physical harm from online bullying, discrimination, and fake news is rising, especially among youths and children who are heavy users of social media. She learned that the government plans to regulate some illegal online gambling and sports betting platforms to protect citizens from scams and cybercrimes. She also welcomed planned legislative changes targeting illegal gambling agents—especially those allowing use of private bank accounts or communications devices for such purposes. She also discussed the widespread installation of cameras in public areas of urban and city environments to detect traffic and criminal violations, mentioning a visit to the Rapid Command Center in Nalaikh district. This center oversees the collection and security of camera footage. However, it is critical to provide the public with more information regarding the collection, storage, and use of such data, as well as the risks of unauthorized surveillance. In conclusion, she called on the government to continue efforts to increase awareness and knowledge about the right to personal data protection, especially among vulnerable groups (senior citizens, people with disabilities, minorities, the low-income), and to bridge the digital divide present in the general population. She warned that there will be increasing challenges and emphasized the importance of political will to resolve them. She also mentioned that some topics would require additional evaluation in the final report, which will be presented for comment to the Mongolian government before its formal submission at the 61st session of the Human Rights Council. After presenting her report, she answered questions from journalists. Here are some highlights: —Based on your observations, how well does Mongolia protect personal data? Last year, a major hospital lost the records of many patients.
—Several people I met raised the issue of lost medical records. There is ongoing evaluation as to the levels of these breaches. Generally, databases containing personal information should be under strict protection and people with access should be tightly regulated. For comparison, some countries have systems that allow hospitals to share patient records securely when necessary, which aids in better treatment. —Have any complaints from Mongolian citizens about data breaches been brought to the UN?
—We were told that the General Intelligence Agency receives these kinds of complaints or petitions, but no individual complaints about data breaches from Mongolia have been submitted to our organization. —Journalists often face issues related to the disclosure of personal data in their work. What is your opinion on this?
—There are cases where it is appropriate to protect or disclose information. Determining this boundary is not easy, and often this is left to the courts. Journalists must be diligent in verifying and investigating any information they receive. The authenticity of the information depends on the source. There are also unofficial sources, such as social media. Should this be considered of equal value as official sources? Journalists, being responsible for educating the public, need to have the knowledge and skills to evaluate sources. It is important to spread awareness about the risks and the necessity of verifying information. As an aside, I have done research in the field of artificial intelligence. From my findings, there are two principles that should be regarded similarly to basic human rights: explanation and transparency. For example, even in platforms and apps based on AI, it is crucial to know how your personal information is processed, for what reasons, and how it is put together. You should be able to receive explanations and demand transparency regarding how your information is handled.

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Orkhon: Support for Studying at Foreign Universities and Colleges

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Registration for citizens wishing to study on a scholarship at the language preparatory course of Suncheon National University in South Korea will begin on April 21. According to the Governor's 2024-2028 action program, it is stated that “Specialized high schools will be established where students can acquire career guidance and select professional paths, and graduates will be supported to study at foreign universities and colleges.” To implement this initiative, Orkhon province entered into a cooperation agreement with Suncheon National University in 2024. Within the framework of the agreement, a regulation has been approved to provide 100% scholarship for 30 citizens of Orkhon province aged between 17 and 23 to study in the first semester of the university’s language preparatory course. Scholarship applicants must choose only one specialty from the list of 30 eligible fields—including civil engineering, architecture, electrical engineering, forestry engineering, chemical engineering, and horticulture—and must have taken the general entrance exam in subjects relevant to the chosen specialty as well as English. The tuition fee for the first semester (equivalent to 6 months) of the language preparatory course will be fully covered by the local budget for successful candidates. During the scholarship period, accommodation and meals will be provided by Suncheon National University. From the second semester onwards, recipients are responsible for tuition, accommodation, meals, health insurance, and other expenses themselves. Depending on their academic performance and quality during the preparatory course, recipients may be eligible for up to a 70% discount on tuition fees when enrolling in bachelor’s programs. There are several additional requirements for scholarship applicants and their families or guarantors, such as proof of regular income and financial capacity certified by tax payments and social insurance. In cases where parents are deceased, the tax payment and social insurance status of a second guarantor (sibling or close relative) must be provided. The Education Department of the province is preparing to accept scholarship application materials from April 21 to 25.

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Applications for the 'Teach for Mongolia Fellowship' Program Continue

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: news.mn

The Teach for Mongolia Program, which selects ambitious young leaders eager to make positive changes in society and gives them the opportunity to work as full-time teachers for two years in general education schools facing teacher shortages, thereby improving access to education, has announced its fourth round of applications. Since its launch in 2022, the program has selected and trained 33 young participants through its three previous rounds, sending them to work as teachers in 14 schools across 13 districts in 8 provinces, directly reaching over 7,400 children. Who is eligible to apply for this program?
- Citizens of Mongolia (no age limit)
- Holders of a bachelor's degree from an accredited university with a GPA of 3.0 or higher (must have graduated by June 2025)
- Applicants do not have to be education majors but must be ready to meet certain requirements
- Must have teamwork skills
- Must have a genuine desire and enthusiasm to contribute to reducing educational inequality and a positive personal attitude Those who meet the specified requirements will begin teaching from September this year. They must also be able to participate in teacher methodology, lesson planning, psychology, and other personal development training sessions during the summer. If you wish to apply for this program, please register at www.teachformongolia.mn by April 30, 2025.

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Health

CENTRAL: Two Cases of Measles Confirmed

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

As of April 15, 2025, one laboratory-confirmed case of measles has been detected in Zuunmod, the capital of Tuv province, bringing the total number of reported cases to two. According to an expert from the local Health Department, as of April 14, 127 contacts at four exposure sites have been identified. Among these, 61 people have not received the environmental (ring) vaccination. The reasons for not being vaccinated are as follows: one pregnant woman, six people who are too young to be vaccinated, 17 people who had the disease previously, 27 people who refused vaccination, and 20 people for whom the contact number was wrong or could not be reached. To date, 66 individuals have been vaccinated as part of the ring vaccination effort. As of April 14, a total of 610 residents in Tuv aimag have received supplemental immunization against measles.

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Healthcare Service Expenditure Reaches 721 Billion Tugrik, Increasing by 209 Billion Compared to the Same Period Last Year

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

The cost of the healthcare service package in the first quarter reached 721 billion tugrik, an increase of 209 billion tugrik compared to the same period of the previous year. According to the General Authority for Health Insurance, in the first quarter of 2025, the health insurance fund's income was 621 billion tugrik, while the cost of the healthcare service package was 721 billion tugrik. Compared to the same period last year, income increased by 42% or 186 billion tugrik, and expenditures increased by 40% or 209 billion tugrik. The National Statistics Office reported that the cost of the healthcare service package exceeded total income by 16%, or 99 billion tugrik.

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From the 28th of this month, the services of the "Traditional Medicine Hepatology Clinical Center" will be transferred to the Songinokhairkhan Hospital branch

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Renovations and modernization are scheduled to take place at the "Traditional Medicine Hepatology Clinical Center" under the Mayor's Office, located in the territory of Songinokhairkhan district. In connection with this, starting from April 28, the services of this center will be temporarily transferred to the branch outpatient clinic of Songinokhairkhan General Hospital located in Bayangol District's 20th khoroo (commonly known to the public as the "10 Buudal outpatient clinic") until the completion of the renovations. According to Kh. Bat-Ireedui, Head of the Department of Public Health, "The renovation of some hospitals operating in the capital and the procurement of necessary equipment has been approved in the revised 2025 budget. One of these is the renovation of the 'Traditional Medicine Hepatology Clinical Center' under the Mayor's Office. Starting from April 28, the services and care provided by this clinic will be transferred to the branch of Songinokhairkhan General Hospital until the renovation work is completed." The aim is to renovate the 'Traditional Medicine Hepatology Clinical Center' in a modern style, acquire necessary equipment, and continue providing services in the fields of traditional medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics. The hospital’s operations will not be completely stopped. Regarding the management privatization of the hospital, there has been no official conclusion from the audit organization or the working group, and the hospital still remains under city ownership. Although A. Delgerbayar was appointed as the hospital director, a problem has arisen because former employees and staff are refusing to accept the new director. Yesterday, the head of the City Governor’s Office visited the 'Traditional Medicine Hepatology Clinical Center' and dismissed staff members who declared they would not work with Director A. Delgerbayar, as was reported today. For the past 30 years, issues related to the hospital named after Khatann Baatar have been discussed. This clinic is the National Center for Hepatology under the Mayor’s Office, and is city-owned, with current expenses covered by the city. The city will take charge of its property," the city mayor declared yesterday. Attention: Media organizations (TV, radio, social media, and web pages) are prohibited from using our information in any form, wholly or partially, without agreement. Use is only allowed with proper source citation (ikon.mn) upon agreement.

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NCCD: 77 People from Umnugovi Infected with Foodborne Illness Have Arrived

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: news.mn

The National Center for Communicable Diseases (NCCD) has reported that three separate outbreaks of food-related infections have occurred at mining companies operating in Umnugovi province since March 17, 2025. The latest outbreak was recorded on April 8. Around 800 mine workers from three companies located in Tsogttsetsii soum, Umnugovi province, suffered from food poisoning. As of April 15, there are 119 cases being treated in the infectious diseases clinic of NCCD, 40 people are receiving home care, and 16 cases are being isolated and treated in local hospitals. Since April 8, clinical and surveillance specialists from NCCD, together with local health inspectors, have been working at these mining companies. Today, 77 suspected foodborne infection cases from a mine in Gurvan Tes soum, Umnugovi province, have been transported to the intestinal infections department of NCCD for medical care. Currently, these are considered suspected foodborne infection outbreaks, and ongoing surveillance, investigation, and laboratory testing are being carried out as reported.

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Sports

Professional Athletes from Four Countries Announce Participation in the "Ulaanbaatar Marathon"

Published: 2025-04-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The annual traditional "Ulaanbaatar Marathon" will be held on April 24, 2025. There are five days left until registration for the marathon, which started on the 1st of this month, closes. Individuals, organizations, and foreign citizens wishing to participate in the marathon can register online at https://ulaanbaatar.marathon.mn/ or via the "Hipay" application and pay the fee online. As in previous years, the race categories range from 500 meters up to 42 kilometers. The registration fees are as follows: 5,000 MNT for 1.5 km, 10,000 MNT for 5 km, 50,000 MNT for 10 km, 70,000 MNT for 21 km, and 90,000 MNT for 42 km. Runners in the 5 km category can receive their bib numbers from their district's Sports and Physical Culture Department, while those registered for the 1.5, 10, 21, and 42 km categories are to collect their numbers from the city's Sports Directorate. Registration for the 500 and 800 meter races is managed by the Mongolian Special Olympics Committee. So far, professional athletes from Kenya, Japan, Russia, and Germany have announced their participation in this year's marathon, and some changes are being made to the course. Last year, over 30,000 domestic and international runners participated in the "Ulaanbaatar Marathon." The event has been organized annually since 2014 to promote the development of running in Mongolia, increase the number of enthusiasts and practitioners, and foster physical and mental development among the younger generation.

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Today's Stories

Politics

Economy

Diplomacy

Infrastructure

Society

Environment

Innovation

Health

Sports

Politics

Officials Who Caused Large-scale Damages through Taxes, Social Insurance, and Unclarified Actions Will Be Investigated

Members of Parliament to Submit Draft Law to Reduce Personal Income Tax

Opposition to Political Appointments in State-Owned Companies

A proposal was received to arrest G.Gankhuyag as a suspect for attempting to assault a high-ranking government official no later than today at 22:00.

Amendment to Grant Mongolian Citizenship to Foreign Athletes Showing Olympic Potential Proposed

J. Bayarmaa: I will initiate a bill to reduce personal income tax to 1 percent, supported by the Democratic Party faction

P. SAINZORIG: If non-standard appointments are being made, the board members of state-owned companies must also be dismissed

Economy

Excessive Budget Expansion and Declining Exports Set to Push Inflation into Double Digits

Despite the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank being responsible for stabilizing the tugrik, the exchange rate has strengthened by 800 tugrik to the US dollar since the appointments of B. Javkhlan and B. Lkhagvasuren

The physical volume of coal exports has decreased

Gold Price Increased by $693.9 per Ounce Compared to 2024

RE/MAX Has the Largest Real Estate Database in Mongolia – Numbers Don’t Lie!

ARKHANGAI: The Khangai region will be developed not only through traditional animal husbandry but also tourism

"Let's Reduce the PIT from 10 Percent to 1 Percent by Cutting Budget Expenses"

International Conference on Economic Cooperation between Mongolia and the Republic of Korea Held

J. Bayarmaa: Reducing personal income tax to 1% will allow citizens to invest the money they keep for themselves in stocks, boosting the capital market

Social Insurance Revenue Increased by 315 Billion MNT in the First Quarter

EVENTS: The Trade Union Federation to Organize a Press Conference on Issues Facing the Energy Sector

The Price of Male Goat Increased by 30,000 Tugrug, Steer Price Increased by 244,000 Tugrug

"The management structure is bloated, indebted, and the energy sector, which cannot afford to increase workers' salaries, does not need a productivity manager"

J. Bayarmaa: By Cutting Extravagant Expenses Like Food Festivals and Suspension Bridges, It Is Completely Possible to Reduce Personal Income Tax

The Average Price of White Cashmere per Kilogram Decreased by 9,000 MNT Compared to Last Year and Now Fluctuates Between 80,000 and 160,000 MNT

Diplomacy

UN Special Rapporteur Conducts Official Visit to Mongolia

Sumo Grand Champion M. Davaajargal: The Emperor of Japan’s Upcoming Visit to Mongolia Marks a Golden Moment in the Relations of Our Two Countries

SELENGE: Representatives from Biei City in Hokkaido, Japan are visiting

G. Zolzaya Appointed as Consul of Mongolia to Manzhouli, People's Republic of China

Ambassador Sara Solis of Guatemala Received by Mongolian Officials

Infrastructure

Electricity Supply Restriction and Maintenance Schedule for April 16

LIVE: UB City Council Discusses Establishment of 'Ulaanbaatar Cable Car' Municipal Enterprise and 10 Other Issues

Of the 28 Temporary Structures in the National Park, Only "Horse Country House" and "Action Dome" Will Be Built Permanently. MNT 50 Billion Transferred to the Capital's Jurisdiction.

A.Erbol: Geological Work Completed, Geodetic Survey 90% Complete for the New Ring Road Project

Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene Familiarizes Himself with the Plan for the New City of Kharkhorum

68 People to be Paid from the Budget to Work in the 'Dream Team' Establishing Kharkhorum City

Society

67,000 Citizens Have Signed Petition to Transfer Dividends from 1072 Shares to Social Insurance Fund and Reduce Social Insurance Fees to 12%

A Day Offering Free Legal Advice to Citizens Will Be Organized Tomorrow

Suspect Who Threatened and Assaulted 13-Year-Old Girl Using Social Media Tracked Down and Arrested through Interpol

Tourist Information Center to Open at Choijin Lama Temple Museum

Suspects in Child Abuse Cases Extradited from Abroad

Citizens' Suggestions Now Being Collected for Local Development Fund Projects to be Implemented Next Year

Environment

Ulaanbaatar to Collaborate with World Bank to Reduce Air Pollution

Warning about Forest and Steppe Fire Hazards

Discussion of the Winter's Air Pollution Hearing Report; Government to Receive Directions

Dornogovi: Earthquake with Magnitude 4.7 Occurred in Khatanbulag Sum

KHUVSGUL: Efforts Underway to Fully Extinguish Fire

City Council: Discussing Distribution of Electric Heaters in Ger Districts

Two Earthquakes of Magnitude 4.4 and 4.7 Occurred in Khatantbulag Soum, Dornogovi Province

Pasture Plants Have Not Yet Sprouted in About 80 Percent of the Country

Innovation

The Capital City Governor's Office Will Collaborate with Potomac University in the USA

ANA BRIAN NUGRERES: There is a need to operate an independent organization to protect personal data

Orkhon: Support for Studying at Foreign Universities and Colleges

Applications for the 'Teach for Mongolia Fellowship' Program Continue

Health

CENTRAL: Two Cases of Measles Confirmed

Healthcare Service Expenditure Reaches 721 Billion Tugrik, Increasing by 209 Billion Compared to the Same Period Last Year

From the 28th of this month, the services of the "Traditional Medicine Hepatology Clinical Center" will be transferred to the Songinokhairkhan Hospital branch

NCCD: 77 People from Umnugovi Infected with Foodborne Illness Have Arrived

Sports

Professional Athletes from Four Countries Announce Participation in the "Ulaanbaatar Marathon"

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