Jan 7, 2025 73 min read Daily News Summaries

Mongolia News Summary for January 07, 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.

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Politics

The Return of 1.7 Billion MNT Bribe Money Taken by G. Amarbatan of "Erdenet Mining Corporation" is Underway

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: isee.mn

The work to return 540,307 euros, which were illegally transferred from Mongolia and stored in a commercial bank in the Republic of Latvia, is ongoing. Specifically, G. Amarbatan, who worked as the head of the Trade Department of the "Erdenet Mining Corporation" from 2010 to 2013, concluded a contract to purchase copper concentrates with companies such as "Trafigura Behre Amsterdam" and "Taurus Metals". In return for altering the loading list of copper concentrates, he received bribes via an account at Rietumu Bank in the Republic of Latvia belonging to Garland Marketing Ltd, a company he established registered in the British Virgin Islands. Specifically, from the company Etona Investment Corp: on December 7, 2006, he received 50,000 USD (58,250,000 MNT); on February 26, 2007, he received 32,000 USD (37,248,000 MNT); and on August 1, 2007, he received 64,000 USD (74,609,280 MNT). From Grinder Trade Investment LTD: on October 5, 2010, he received 51,475 USD (67,822,945.25 MNT); on October 7, 2010, he received 36,975 USD (48,534,494.25 MNT); on February 21, 2012, he received 109,975 USD (145,645,391.25 MNT); and on May 23, 2012, he received 104,975 USD (138,688,711 MNT). From Noble Phonenix Limited: on September 30, 2013, he received 54,975 USD (91,007,814 MNT); on October 17, 2013, he received 79,975 USD (135,609,608.75 MNT); on May 28, 2014, he received 49,975 USD (91,027,463.5 MNT); and on June 3, 2014, he received 43,807 USD (79,896,082.74 MNT). In total, he took bribes worth 678,132 USD (968,339,850.74 MNT). Furthermore, knowing that the 678,132 USD deposited into the account at Rietumu Bank in the Republic of Latvia by Garland Marketing LTD was obtained through bribery, G. Amarbatan retained it from February 9, 2014. To conceal the illegal source of funds, on May 26, 2014, he opened a correspondent account at Rietumu Bank in the Republic of Latvia. From this account of Garland Marketing Ltd, on June 10, 2014, he transferred and concealed 672,092 USD (1,226,453,644.36 MNT), and on June 13, 2017, another 300 USD (711,648 MNT), totaling 672,392 USD (1,227,165,292.36 MNT). Additionally, on March 14, 2018, the 671,440 USD he had in his personal account at the Rietumu Bank in the Republic of Latvia was converted into 540,307.98 euros (1,603,644,890.79 MNT) and hidden until September 19, 2022, amounting to 570,307.98 euros (1.7 billion MNT) as discovered during the investigation. Thus, efforts by the Anti-Corruption Agency to return these funds have commenced, and this work is still ongoing.

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Member of Parliament B. Purevdorj Proposes to Reduce VAT from 10% to 5%

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: isee.mn

Member of Parliament B. Purevdorj has drafted a bill to decrease the Value Added Tax (VAT) from 10% to 5%. According to Article 11.1 of the Law on Value Added Tax, a 10% tax is imposed on the valuation of sales of all types of goods, works, and services sold within the territory of Mongolia, as well as on all types of goods, works, and services imported into Mongolia. As of today, the outstanding VAT debt of business entities has reached 540 billion tugrugs, and they face the danger of ceasing operations. In other words, consumers pay a 10% tax to the state on every product, goods, and service they purchase. Member of Parliament B. Purevdorj has drafted a bill to reduce this 10% tax to 5%. However, he has not yet submitted the bill to Parliament and has only drafted a change to Article 11.1. In his New Year's message, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene stated that tax reforms would begin in 2025. It is clear that these reforms will be developed by the government. MP B. Purevdorj argues for reducing VAT, stating, "Today, business owners face significant pressure from taxes, loans, and rent. Various taxes like corporate income tax, VAT, social insurance tax, and city tax negatively impact business activities. Additionally, high-interest loans and rental pressures cannot be ignored. For example, a rental agreement made for the first month at five million tugrugs has increased to 18 million tugrugs per month over four years. There are even cases where rent has risen from 27 million to 88 million tugrugs. The number of businesses becoming bankrupt due to their inability to pay rent is increasing. If taxpayer businesses go bankrupt due to such pressures, it will undoubtedly cause significant challenges to the national economy and tax revenues. VAT, also known as consumption tax or goods and services tax in some countries, is calculated on the sales-based VAT from which the VAT paid on purchases is deducted. The main feature of VAT is that the tax burden falls on the final consumer, while the tax paid by manufacturers can be refunded. The main distinction of VAT from other taxes is its dual goal of improving the tax system. Since the beginning of 2016, Mongolia's VAT revenue has been steadily increasing, and the underground economy has been contracting, with a positive impact on budget revenues; however, it's important to consider the evaluation measured by revenue collection efficiency indicators. As of today, the outstanding VAT debt of businesses has reached 540 billion tugrugs. In 2025, inspectors will visit these businesses and may close their accounts, threatening to cease their operations. Although our country has a high revenue collection efficiency indicator (for example: 27 in African countries, 37 in South American countries, 38 in European Union countries, 35 in Asia Pacific countries, and 68.5 in Mongolia), the VAT refunds are relatively small, which shows that instead of improving the tax system, its main goal is focused on generating budget revenues. In other words, it is commendable that our country's VAT revenue is growing and revenue collection efficiency is continuously increasing, but as a result, there may be risks of increased inflation rates, unemployment rates, and reduced GDP. This is because VAT is an indirect tax, and any indirect tax affects the pricing policy. When an indirect tax system is introduced, price increases are often observed. The price that consumers pay increases due to the effects of indirect taxes. The extent of the increase depends on the supply and demand levels for the particular goods, works, and services. This effect influences the inflation rate. Indirect taxes are more burdensome for low-income individuals and less for high-income ones. For example, if a person with a monthly income of 1,000,000 tugrugs spends half of their income, or 500,000 tugrugs, on consumption, 5% of their total monthly income would be spent on VAT. If a person with an income of 5,000,000 tugrugs spends 500,000 tugrugs on VAT-inclusive purchases, 1% of their income would be spent on VAT. Thus, it can be seen that regarding income levels, it acts as a regressive tax. In the case of a consumption tax, higher consumption means continuing to pay more tax. For a sales tax, it is similar, and the goods reaching consumers living in remote rural areas may become more expensive due to the effects of cumulative taxes. Since indirect taxes do not depend on the profit level, they weigh heavily on taxpayers with low profitability. If a business owner with 1% profit is levied 1% on sales, their business would go bankrupt. However, a business operating with a 50% profit would be less affected. Low-profit businesses often involve more labor-intensive work, so sales tax affects the unemployment rate. Therefore, sales tax often imposes more pressure on self-employed and small businesses, and poses a risk of making them less competitive with larger businesses. In conclusion, by improving Mongolia's VAT system, especially by enhancing revenue collection efficiency and expanding the taxpayer base, as well as reducing the VAT rate, it would be possible to limit the above-mentioned risks. Therefore, the proposal is to amend Article 11 of the Law on Value Added Tax in the section "11.1. A 10% tax shall be imposed on the valuation of sales of goods, works, and services specified in Articles 7.1.1 and 7.1.2 of this law," by changing "10%" to "5%". Once the legal amendment is approved, besides improving the revenue collection efficiency indicator and supporting business activities, expanding the taxpayer base would create positive conditions in the economy and for taxpayers without reducing, but rather potentially increasing, the tax revenues collected in the state budget.

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L. Munkhbayasgalan: Cancellation of the Equal to One-Year Salary Severance for Members of Parliament

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: isee.mn

The public has criticized the provision allowing Members of Parliament to receive a severance equal to a 12-month salary after their term ends, as specified in the amendments to the law on the State Great Khural (Parliament). MP L. Munkhbayasgalan expressed her position on the matter, saying, "We will cancel the provision where a person who has served as a Member of Parliament for four years receives a severance equal to their one-year salary. Therefore, I have submitted a proposal to introduce amendments to the law on the State Great Khural during the spring session."

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Discussions Underway to Extradite Founder of "Achit Ikht" P.Tsagaan from Singapore

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The Economic Crime Division of the General Police Department has been investigating "Achit Ikht" LLC, which operates using the ore stockpile of the state-owned Erdenet Mining Corporation, under allegations of large-scale tax evasion. In connection with this, P.Tsagaan, who served as the Chief of Staff to President Ts.Elbegdorj and former Minister of Finance, was put on the wanted list both domestically and through Interpol. At the start of the new year, it garnered public attention when Singaporean law enforcement detained him and restricted him from leaving a certain address. Some online news outlets reported on this incident, while others denied it. Furthermore, there were claims that he gave paid interviews. However, the Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs, O.Altangerel, confirmed P.Tsagaan's detention. It has been reported that law enforcement, with the help of Interpol, determined that he avoided tax evasion charges and resided in Thailand, Indonesia, South Korea, and Singapore. Currently, discussions are ongoing with Singaporean law enforcement regarding his extradition. An audit conducted on the "Erdenet Mining Corporation" revealed that its then-leadership granted special advantages to "Achit Ikht" without a decision from the board. The audit also indicated that the economic feasibility study was weak and posed high economic risks, noting that the revenue from the sale of exported cathode copper had not been fully paid to "Erdenet Mining Corporation." In addition, despite an agreement for "Erdenet Mining Corporation" to own 34% of "Achit Ikht," this has not yet been implemented.

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TODAY: Military registration begins in the capital

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: montsame.mn

A summary of some events happening on Monday, January 6: 10:00 AM: Regular meeting of the Democratic Party and Mongolian People's Party groups in the State Great Khural. 2:00 PM: Meeting of the Economic Standing Committee of the State Great Khural to be held in the “Great Khan Chinggis” hall. 3:30 PM: Meeting of the State Structure Standing Committee of the State Great Khural will be held in the “General D. Sukhbaatar” hall. - Meetings of the working groups established by orders 42, 85, and 109 of the State Great Khural Speaker for 2024 will also take place. - In accordance with the Military Service Law, the Minister of Defense's order, and the Mayor of Ulaanbaatar's decree, the 2025 military registration will be organized from January 6 to 22 in the capital. - Registration for the “Dronocon-2025” unmanned aerial vehicle national championship takes place until January 14. The championship will be held on January 25-26. - From January 1, the Tax Authority is accepting applications from citizens who purchased a home for the first time and students seeking tuition fee discounts for studying in domestic and foreign universities. - As of January 15, the official state number registration will begin. Until January 14, citizens, businesses, and organizations can familiarize themselves with this system and verify their information. - The special exhibition “Marco Polo, Khubilai Khan, and the Mongols,” dedicated to the 700th anniversary of Marco Polo, is open at the Chinggis Khan National Museum's 9th-floor exhibition hall until January 15. In local areas: A working group assigned by the State Great Khural Office and the Ethics and Conduct Subcommittee will work in Arvaikheer soum of Uvurkhangai province from January 5 to 7 to acquaint themselves with the operation of Ethics Subcommittees and the implementation of the Law on Ethics of Public Servants. The "Bright Child-2025" tournament to determine the champions of young chess players in Bulgan province will be held on January 6-7. The “Bright Child-2025” tournament to determine the champion young chess players in Zavkhan province will also be held on January 6-7. Follow @montsame.mn

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O.Altangerel: The Support for Members' Salaries Implemented Since 1992 Should Be Changed. There Should Be No Opposition.

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: itoim.mn

We clarified some issues with Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs O. Altangerel regarding current affairs. - There is information that the director of Achit Ikht company, P. Tsagaan, has been detained. Is this true? - P. Tsagaan is being investigated in connection with a criminal case. Due to it being announced internationally through Interpol, information about his presence abroad has reached our country. Currently, there is no detention or arrest. If he is to be arrested, there must be a court decision. Announcements through Interpol are made based on the prosecutor’s decision. - Do you know where he is? - We received information that he is in Singapore. As part of the "Operation 5Sh," they are searching for individuals who fled abroad and are evading criminal responsibility in Mongolia. As of the last six months of 2024, more than 10 individuals have been brought back under the "Bird Operation". If individuals under investigation for criminal cases flee abroad, they are announced internationally through Interpol. The prosecutor's office decides who to announce, while the court decides whether to arrest them. - Under what charges is P. Tsagaan being investigated? - He is being investigated on the grounds of tax evasion and money laundering. - According to Article 41.9 of the Law on the State Great Khural (Parliament), "If a member's term ends and they are not employed afterwards, they will receive an allowance equal to the basic salary of a member for 12 months, and if employed in a less paid job, they will receive an allowance equal to the difference in salary. If they move to their previous residence before becoming a member, their and their family's travel expenses, load, and baggage costs will be calculated and provided according to auto transportation rates." What is your stance on this provision that favors MPs? - The regulation related to guarantees for MPs has been implemented since 1992. At one point, even apartments were given to MPs elected from rural areas. Now it is clear to everyone that this measure is inappropriate. This provision came with the law ratified by the current parliament. No changes have been made to the law since the election. Therefore, I think no member will oppose making a political decision to repeal this provision. There is no need for MPs to enjoy privileges, additional salary because they are MPs. There are legal concessions related to expressing views and conducting activities as an MP, but it must not be a law for personal and pocket benefits. Since it is a law, it can be changed. If any member initiates it, I will be the first to sign and support it. - Is this a form of legal theft? - This legal regulation that has existed since 1992 must be changed. There have been many cases where MPs elected from rural areas received support for housing and money in the history of eight parliaments in Mongolia. If the parliament with 126 members sets a precedent by refusing privileges, especially financial ones, for individual MPs, this will become a tradition going forward.

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Will We Continue to Favor the Corrupt?

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: news.mn

In Mongolia’s history, the coal theft scandal, involving 40 trillion tugrik, has been publicly revealed for nearly two years. The case, known as the "coal scandal," has been long discussed, and the number of those implicated has decreased until finally, 11 individuals were sentenced by a court. The court proceedings related to these 11 individuals initially occurred over a period of 15 days in January 2024. However, due to appeals from defendants and their lawyers, the case was reviewed by the Ulaanbaatar City Criminal Court of Appeal and decided in a closed session over two days on September 12, 2024. Some individuals had their sentences overturned and were ordered to be retried, while others had their sentences upheld. The Prosecutor General’s Office filed an objection, and defendants and their lawyers appealed to the Supreme Court, which refused to hear the appeal. Therefore, the decisions of the appellate court remain in place. The appellate court modified some of the first-instance court’s decisions, including reducing some sentences and annulling others to be retried, while maintaining the sentences for the remaining defendants. Decisions of the Appellate Court include: - T. Ayursaikhan's three-year prison sentence reduced to 2.6 years. - T. Ayursaikhan’s assistant, I. Davaadorj, sentenced to two years. - B. Gankhuyag's 5.9-year sentence reduced to 3.9 years. - The individual known as the reincarnation of Danzanravjaa had his fine waived. - T. Ayursaikhan’s brother, T. Tuvshinbaatar, was released from the sentence. - The indictment against B. Otgonjargal for providing undue advantage was dismissed. - The director of Like Life LLC was fined 10 million tugrik. - B. Gankhuyag's wife was fined one million tugrik. - H. Batkhishig’s 14 million tugrik fine was annulled. - B. Erdenebayar, Head of Investment Department at Erdenes Tavantolgoi JSC, was fined 10 million tugrik and had movement restrictions imposed. - O. Dagvadorj was fined 10 million tugrik and had movement restrictions for six months. The Prosecutor General’s Office investigated 82 cases since its establishment on December 5, 2022, accused 156 individuals and three legal entities, and examined 38 criminal cases. Notably, 13 influential figures from politics, 90 executives from Border, Customs, and National Road Transport Centers, directors, and managers of private companies, individual coal transporters, and four foreign nationals have been accused. Prosecutors filed charges against 96 individuals and two legal entities, resulting in first-instance courts reviewing seven cases and returning two cases for additional investigation. Furthermore, the Prosecutor General’s Office of the capital city claims that, over the past two years, 91 individuals have been prosecuted for “coal” crimes. The court examined 16 cases related to illegal activities in coal extraction, export, transportation, and purchase based on prosecutor charges, which led to sentences including imprisonment, fines, and public office bans under the Criminal Code. The Anti-Corruption Agency, General Police Directorate, and General Intelligence Agency's joint task force continues investigating 12 cases involving 43 officials, including current and former MPs, ministry officials, heads of state-owned enterprises, and council chairmen. The cases revolving around the Development Bank and coal theft, which involved large sums and numerous people of interest and gained significant public attention, seem to end with such lackluster outcomes, as seen in the example of those involved in the coal theft case. Not just coal or Development Bank thefts, but multiple corruption and official crimes have only resulted in fines, as the public knows. The public demands severe punishments for those involved in corruption and official crimes, increasing accountability rather than ending with small fines, and for agencies like the Anti-Corruption Agency and courts to work independently. Despite these outcries, legal institutions continue to function in this manner. According to the 2023 Corruption Index, we dropped five places, ranking 121st among 180 countries. The question arises if we will move forward or backward with the upcoming 2024 Corruption Index announcement. As the punishment for those involved in corruption and official crimes is reduced for some while others argue penalties are too light, the refusal by courts to even hear objections continues to erode trust in whether Mongolia's state is genuinely combating its corrupt officials, or still "patting the heads" of its corrupt individuals, despite politicians’ eloquent statements, ineffective laws, and promises of impartial fights against corruption irrespective of party affiliation.

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Today the MPP and DP factions in the State Great Khural will meet

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: isee.mn

According to the schedule, the factions of the Mongolian People's Party (MPP) and the Democratic Party (DP) in the State Great Khural (Parliament) will meet to consolidate their positions on the issues to be discussed in the standing committee and plenary sessions this week. This week, during the standing committee and plenary sessions, the following issues are set to be discussed: - The draft law on amendments to the Law on the National Wealth Fund and the associated draft laws (introduced by the government, first reading); - The draft resolution of the State Great Khural on "Replacing the share and percentage of government ownership of strategically important mineral deposits" (introduced by the government, first reading); - The draft resolution of the State Great Khural on "Adding an appendix to the resolution" (introduced by the government, to be discussed); - The draft resolution of the State Great Khural on "Immortalizing the honorable achievements of Jamsrangijn Sambuu and taking measures to commemorate the 130th anniversary of his birth" (submitted by Member of Parliament S. Erdenebold and 101 other members, first reading); - Discussing the appointment of an ambassador (submitted by the President of Mongolia, for consultation); - The draft law to ratify the "Agreement between the Government of Mongolia and the Government of Japan on the transfer of defense equipment and technology" (submitted by the government, for ratification).

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Economy

Golomt Bank Issues $50 Million Green Bond

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Golomt Bank has successfully issued a $50 million green and social bond on the international market with a 5-year maturity and an annual interest rate of 8%, raising funds from international investors. This bond issued by Golomt Bank is noteworthy for being the least expensive bond of its kind from Mongolian corporate bonds available on the global market. Expected Outcomes of the Bond: The bond's proceeds will be allocated to projects such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, pollution reduction, and other environmentally friendly initiatives, with the following anticipated outcomes: - Growth of the sustainable and green loan portfolio to reach 4.5% of the total loan portfolio, thereby establishing a portfolio of over 400 billion MNT. By collaborating with businesses and entities engaged in environmentally and socially responsible projects, programs, and operations, Golomt Bank aims to foster such investments. - Preservation and creation of jobs: By providing financial support to facilitate a transition to a green economy, Golomt Bank created more than 68,000 new jobs in 2023, 43% of which supported women's employment. The bank is committed to increasing the number of jobs offered through its products and services. - Contribution to economic development: Through the development of green infrastructure and innovation, Golomt Bank is set to help diversify Mongolia's economy and support sustainable development. "Successfully issuing this 8%-interest, 5-year bond is a testimony to the international recognition of our dedication to sustainable development initiatives,” stated A. Odontuyaa, CEO of Golomt Bank. “This achievement significantly propels our long-term financing strategy and aids in achieving Mongolia’s sustainable development goals.” Golomt Bank has a leading position in Mongolia's sustainable finance sector, with a strong impact from its green loan initiatives. The bank has committed to medium and long-term objectives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions created through its total financing by 30% by 2030 and by 50% by 2050 compared to 2023 levels. Furthermore, international investors have expressed trust in Golomt Bank, with guidance from KIS Asia, noting that this bond will be the first dollar-denominated bond issued globally in 2025, extending congratulations. This success has played a crucial role in gaining international investor confidence, recognizing policies and actions aimed at sustainable development. Following this issuance, six of the top 10 investment funds globally have invested in Golomt Bank.

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Coal export volume increases by 14 million tons, while value decreases by 2% from 2023

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The monetary value of the export of six key mineral products increased by 5% compared to 2023. According to preliminary reports from the Customs General Administration, the export value of six major mineral products reached 13.2 billion US dollars in 2024, showing an increase of approximately 5% compared to the previous year. Last year, 83.7 million tons of stone and brown coal were exported for 8.6 billion US dollars. While the physical volume increased by over 20% compared to the previous year, the value decreased by about 2%. In 2024, Mongolia planned to export 78 million tons of coal at an average price of 115 US dollars per ton. In terms of volume, the target was exceeded, but the average price was around 103 US dollars per ton. For 2025, it is planned to export 83 million tons of coal at an average price of 105 US dollars per ton, accounting for budget income. The World Bank reported that due to economic conditions in China, coal prices in 2025 are expected to decrease by an average of 10-12% compared to 2024. Economists have warned that if coal prices in the international market fall below expectations, there is a risk of budget revenue shortfalls. Concerning other mineral products, 1.6 million tons of copper concentrate were exported for 3.3 billion US dollars, showing an increase of approximately 26% compared to the previous year. The World Bank emphasized that increased extraction with higher gold and copper content from the "Oyu Tolgoi" underground mine in 2025 might compensate for the coal price decline. The value of exports of fluorspar, iron ore, and crude oil has increased compared to 2023.

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The World Bank Claims 1.7 Million USD from the Government

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The "E-Health" project was implemented with funding from the World Bank. According to an audit report, the project was rated unsatisfactory, prompting the World Bank to halt the project and claim a total of 1.7 million USD from the government. Investigators from the Anti-Corruption Agency worked with the World Bank by exchanging information and collaborating with similar agencies in foreign countries. It was found that the contractor, South Korea's "Taihan Cable & Solution" company, won the project selection through the submission of fake documents. Furthermore, it was determined that the project's funds, as outlined in the contract, were spent ineffectively, causing significant damage to the state. The Anti-Corruption Agency reported that the company was made to repay the 1.7 million USD in damages to Mongolia and the interest on the loan from the budget has been stopped.

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Foreign Exchange Reserves Reach Historic High

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The foreign exchange reserves of our country reached 5.5 billion USD last month. This is a historic high. The foreign exchange reserves at the Bank of Mongolia consist of the following types of assets: - Monetized gold stored at foreign banks and financial institutions; - Freely convertible foreign currency available in both cash and non-cash forms; - Freely payable bills of exchange in freely convertible foreign currency; - All types of securities issued or guaranteed by foreign governments, central banks, or international financial institutions, denominated and payable in freely convertible foreign currency; - Other assets considered as foreign exchange reserves on an international scale. The Bank of Mongolia assumes the responsibility of maintaining the prompt executability and reliability of foreign payments with respect to the national foreign exchange reserves under its possession and management.

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Inflation has reached 8.1% after continuous rise since last June

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: isee.mn

As of today, inflation nationwide stands at 8.1%, with 7.9% in Ulaanbaatar city. The Bank of Mongolia set a target to keep inflation at a level of +/-6%, but it has reached 8.1%. According to data from the National Statistics Office, a year ago, inflation was at 7.6%, showing an increase of 0.5 percentage points. Furthermore, data indicates that from December 2023 onwards, inflation continuously decreased, reaching 5.1% by June.

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Development Bank to finance projects worth two trillion tugriks by 2025

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The first morning meeting of the "Economic Journalists and Analysts Club" in 2025 started with listening to the long-term plans of the Development Bank. The bank's current situation is essentially stuck in one place, as described by Executive Director Z. Narantuya. BETTER TO REVEAL THAN TO HIDE... When we were first introduced to the list of non-performing borrowers of the Development Bank at the beginning of 2022, the most difficult and notorious "troublemakers" like Khutul, Beren, and Erel, among others, still have not repaid their loans, limiting the bank's ability to move forward. Although all measures to recover the loans have been taken in cooperation with various organizations over the past two years and external bond repayments were completed, the most difficult, uncollectible loans have remained. Currently, loans worth over 700 billion tugriks need to be reclaimed. This is the first major issue. Another difficulty is that the key indicator of the bank, the asset size, has decreased by 60 percent compared to eight years ago. Specifically, the assets were 5.8 trillion tugriks in 2017 and had decreased to 2.3 trillion tugriks by December 31, 2024. Since the information on non-performing borrowers was made transparent, the bank has focused its efforts only on loan recovery, halting its core activities such as granting loans, financing projects, and raising funds. WHAT NOW? Does Mongolia need a Development Bank? Of course, yes. The important thing is to identify and fund the right projects initially, which should not be minor projects like "Cat and Dog Food Production," or "Quiet Parking" that commercial banks can already fund. Nothing is more necessary in our country than investment in mega-projects. According to the government, 14 mega-projects and 149 programs are planned within the "New Revival Policy" framework. The Development Bank announced plans to invest in projects that support export competitiveness. To avoid repeating past mistakes, the bank is undergoing structural reforms to employ a research team that will determine the economic benefits. The focus will be on implementing projects until they yield results, regardless of which party is in power. This aim seems to be moving towards becoming an EXIM bank. GOING FORWARD... In the future, a new developmental model and structural solutions are certainly needed. In the short term, a priority task is for the Development Bank to get rid of bad loans. Management measures are being implemented to divide non-performing loans into four parts for repayment. At the same time, legislative reforms will be accelerated. The next step will be focusing on issuing green loans and supporting green development. Plans are set to finance projects worth two trillion tugriks by the end of this year. Lending sectors will focus on renewable energy, agriculture, environment, mining, transportation, logistics, and manufacturing. Z. Narantuya, Executive Director of the Development Bank: The bank will increase its capital fund by 700 billion tugriks. According to the new strategy presented, as a result of the bank's efforts, the average share of the bank’s assets in GDP, which stands at 3.5 percent as of 2023, is projected to grow to 12.8 percent by 2030, increasing from 4.8 billion USD to 11.9 billion USD.

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Alcohol, Tobacco, and Car Imports Increase Significantly Last Year

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: isee.mn

In the past year, for the first time, the import of alcohol and tobacco in our country reached 1 billion US dollars, and car imports doubled. According to sources, the import of alcoholic beverages and tobacco reached 1 billion US dollars, an unprecedented figure for this type of import. Meanwhile, car imports reached 120,000 units. The annual average in previous years was only 50,000 to 60,000, indicating a doubling in the past year. The increase in imports of alcohol, tobacco, and automobiles has begun to negatively impact the balance of foreign trade.

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Coal Exports Exceed 80 Million Tons for the First Time

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The General Customs Administration of Mongolia has released preliminary data on the country's exports of mineral products for 2024. According to the agency, coal export revenue reached 8.6 billion USD in 2024. From the beginning of the year, the volume of coal exported reached 83.7 million tons, marking the first time in history that coal exports have exceeded 80 million tons. The total value of exports of six main mineral products reached 13.2 billion USD.

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The price of a tonne of coal has fallen to $70-80

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: isee.mn

Mongolia aims to increase coal exports to 83 million tonnes this year. However, as of November last year, the price of coal, which is a major export product, has fallen by $24.2 per tonne, according to the National Statistics Office. Furthermore, the international market price of coal has decreased by 1.41% to $125 per tonne. The Governor of the Bank of Mongolia, B. Lkhagvasuren, remarked in an interview that at the beginning of the year, the price of coal was between $100-120 per tonne, but it has now dropped to $70-80 per tonne. It would be misleading to expect the price to rise again in 2025. The question remains whether the price will stay at the current level of $70-80 per tonne.

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Ten Gifts for the Centenary of Monetary and Financial Stability

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: itoim.mn

1. Inflation Remained Within the Target Interval Throughout the Year
The primary goal of the central bank, inflation, was reduced to the Bank of Mongolia's target level in 2024. Despite the ongoing root causes of uncertainty due to the global pandemic, including global disruptions in transportation and logistics, the average inflation rate in 2024 was 6.6%. Although inflation reached the target, challenges such as budget spending, loan growth, salary increases, rising prices for electricity and heating, and the consecutive droughts continue to pressure inflation. Monetary policy will focus on overcoming these challenges and meeting inflation targets. 2. Foreign Exchange Reserves Reach a Historical High
In 2024, the foreign exchange reserves of the country reached a historical high of 5.3 billion USD. The increase in reserves indicates successful macroeconomic policy and improved foreign investor confidence in Mongolia, along with increased foreign financing and rising export revenue. The increase in reserves is distinguished by having been achieved after the repayment of external debt. The Bank of Mongolia repaid a net amount of 450 million USD on government external loans and bonds, and 4.5 billion yuan from the swap agreement balance with the People's Bank of China, totaling approximately 1.1 billion USD in principal and interest payments. 3. Mongolia's Credit Rating Improved
In 2024, international credit rating agencies Fitch, S&P, and Moody's upgraded Mongolia’s credit rating to “B+”, “B+”, and “B2”, respectively, the highest level in ten years. This reflects positively upon the policies of the Mongolian government and the Bank of Mongolia, signaling renewed investor confidence and optimistic economic prospects. The improvements in macroeconomic stability, foreign repayment capacity, reduced inflation, economic growth acceleration, and optimal foreign debt management significantly contributed to the upgraded credit rating. Improved ratings enhance the ability to attract financing from international financial markets under more favorable conditions. For instance, domestic banks have successfully issued 350 million USD bonds on the international market at lower interest rates in recent months. 4. Utilization Balance of the Currency Swap Agreement with the People's Bank of China Reduced by Half
The Bank of Mongolia gradually reduced the amount utilized under the currency swap agreement with the People's Bank of China from 2011 to 2016. By the end of 2024, principal payments of 4.5 billion yuan were repaid, reducing the total utilization balance to 6 billion yuan, thereby halving the central bank's external swap utilization and reducing interest costs while increasing net foreign currency reserves. This positively impacts the stability of Mongolia's external debt and the improvement of its long-term credit rating. 5. “Apple Pay” Service Launched in Mongolia
The initiative to localize payment technologies that meet international standards and requirements continues, with “Apple Pay” launched in Mongolia on December 10, 2024. With this service, over 150,000 POS devices in Mongolia can accept payments through iPhones. The service also opens a new pathway for using the national “₮ card” in international payment systems. 6. International Conference on “Modern Central Banking: Challenges and Outlook” Organized
The Bank of Mongolia, in cooperation with the Mongolian Bankers Association and international financial institutions, organized a high-level international conference on “Modern Central Banking: Challenges and Outlook” in Ulaanbaatar on July 9-10, 2024. The conference was attended by over 180 guests, scholars, and policymakers from 62 domestic and international organizations, discussing global and regional economic and financial market prospects, and key challenges and solutions for central banks. 7. Mongolia Highlighted at APG Annual Meeting on Anti-Money Laundering
At the annual meeting of the Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering in the United Arab Emirates in September 2024, the group's chairman noted that Mongolia is the fifth country in the APJ region to meet FATF's 40 Recommendations. The chairman praised Mongolia's efforts to comply with international standards and highlighted its experience in addressing issues related to virtual assets, submitting successful evaluation reports annually, and fulfilling FATF obligations within an unprecedented six-month period during the pandemic. 8. “Global Finance” Journal Highly Praised the Bank of Mongolia's Policies and Actions
International publication Global Finance recognized the Bank of Mongolia's Governor B. Lkhagvasuren with an “A-” rating in the “Central Banker Report Cards 2024.” This evaluation is on par with prominent central bank leaders like ECB President Christine Lagarde and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. The report by Global Finance, published annually since 1994, evaluates the effectiveness of central bank policies worldwide across approximately 100 countries, focusing on monetary policy, inflation target achievement, economic growth, and currency stability. 9. Supported Green Financing to Combat Climate Change
The Bank of Mongolia began implementing the “Readiness support for Greening the Bank of Mongolia” project with support from the United Nations. The project includes climate stress testing in the banking sector at systemically important banks and developing climate transparency guidelines for banks. Financial inclusion statistics are now categorized by gender equality and green financing, enhancing available data. For the first time in 2024, data on loans, deposits, and accounts at district and local bank branch levels were disaggregated by gender. Green loan statistics were also published at the financial sector level, showing a remaining balance of 1.2 trillion MNT in green loans, accounting for 3.4% of total loans, a 92.6% increase from the previous year. The aim is to maintain this growth, reaching 10% by 2030. In the framework of the 100th anniversary of the banking system, 3 million trees were planted in cooperation with the “Billion Trees” foundation and other organizations across Ulaanbaatar and 21 provinces. 10. Ensured Stability of the Banking Sector, Laying the Foundation for Economic Growth
The Bank of Mongolia fulfilled its legal mandates by ensuring stability in the financial market and banking sector to support balanced national economic development. As of November 2024, the banking sector's assets increased by MNT 5,598.1 billion (9.7%) year-on-year, loan portfolios by MNT 8,428.9 billion (31%), and equity by MNT 992.1 billion (17%). The proportion of non-performing loans stands at 5.1%, the lowest since 2014. Improved financial indicators and reduced credit risk within the banking system positively contribute to the sector's stability and provide the foundation for economic growth.

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Z. Narantuya: The Bank of Development Can Implement Risk-Free Management and Become a Well-Governed Bank

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Executive Director of the Development Bank, Z. Narantuya, along with the bank's management, held a press conference where they provided information to the journalists about the current situation of the bank and its future policy and planning. The Development Bank's assets were 5.8 trillion MNT in 2017, but by the end of December 31, 2024, they had decreased by 2.8 times, reaching 2.368 trillion MNT, resulting in significant contraction of the bank's operations. Therefore, the bank has been in a stagnant state, unable to carry out its main operations such as lending, project financing, and resource mobilization. Looking at the financial indicators: The proportion of non-performing loans has not decreased with the reduction in total assets. In the total loan portfolio of the Development Bank, 2.3 trillion MNT from 33 borrowers is outstanding. Among these: - Performing loans: 843.4 billion MNT - Watchful loans: 124.8 billion MNT - Substandard loans: 168.9 billion MNT - Doubtful loans: 586.4 billion MNT - Bad loans: 553.3 billion MNT 57.5% of the total loan portfolio, or 1.3086 trillion MNT, constitutes non-performing loans, of which 25.6 billion MNT are state-owned and 1.2824 trillion MNT are private sector loans. The accumulated loss is 738.0 billion MNT, and this year's loss is 220.7 billion MNT. To make up for the shortfall in equity, 700 billion MNT is needed. In short, the Development Bank is facing financial difficulties, and the legal basis for insolvency is forming. Why did it come to this? In January 2022, information about the quality of loans issued by the Development Bank, the loan issuance process, and the actions and operations of the involved officials became public. At that time, the bank's total assets were 3.3 trillion MNT, and of the 3.2 trillion MNT loan balance from 67 borrowers, 1.8 trillion MNT were non-performing loans. On January 31, 2022, a Working Group was established by the Speaker’s decree, and on March 29, a General Hearing was conducted. On April 15, Resolution No. 14 was issued by the Parliament, establishing a temporary Supervisory Committee to check the implementation, results, loan issuance, and repayment status of projects and programs funded by the Bank. On May 4, a Working Group was formed to intensify measures to recover non-performing loans. In the past, the Development Bank underwent 13 audits or inspections from the Parliament, the Government, the Bank of Mongolia, and the National Audit Office, identifying 202 violations. Among them: - 29 legal issues - 35 governance issues - 61 loan issues - 18 asset management issues - 55 internal operational issues were audited, and recommendations were reported. Since the hearing, efforts have been made to normalize the bank's operations. Loans and interest amounting to 1.4 trillion MNT from 33 borrowers have been fully closed, and loans and interest totaling 1.8 trillion MNT have been repaid by 22 borrowers. In accordance with the requirements set by the Bank of Mongolia, a reserve fund of 770.0 billion MNT was established to protect against risks that may arise in loan repayment. As a result, the bank's equity has decreased and the accumulated loss is 538.0 billion MNT. There has been no increase in the equity by the Government and the Ministry of Finance, and financial indicators have not improved on the balance sheet while the accumulated loss has increased, as highlighted by Executive Director Z. Narantuya. Z. Narantuya stated that the Development Bank is facing a significant reputational risk besides financial risks. What reforms are planned for the Development Bank? Due to the mismanagement of the Development Bank’s leadership and issues with non-performing loans, the bank has been in a dormant state for the past 3-4 years. In order to revive operations, we will implement policies to finance major projects that support export and contribute to the development of Mongolia. Currently, 95% of the total loan portfolio of systemically important commercial banks is for import financing, while only 5% is for export financing. The Development Bank will operate on the principles of an export-import bank, financing the development of business infrastructure supporting exports such as renewable energy, heating, and transportation. To this end, we have developed a plan to clean up bad loans by 2025. Operation to recover the remaining 36 non-performing loans continues intensively. Our first task is to clean up our balance sheet and improve financial condition. Normal loans will continue. It is urgent to resolve the significant debt obligations related to the state. This measure is being implemented in collaboration with the government. Without proper management, over 20 remaining loans will not be repaid. For example, due to the pandemic and unforeseen political decisions, some initiated business projects have stalled. The Development Bank has invested in these projects and therefore deserves to benefit from them. Stalled projects must be refinanced and managed properly to ensure loan repayments. What are the expected outcomes of the amendments to the Law on Development Bank? The Law on Development Bank was enacted in 2017. To implement the above operations, amendments to the Law on Development Bank are required. We have prepared a draft law, have gained support for its concept from various ministries, and are preparing to submit it to the Government. The Development Bank will begin financing projects and programs from the second quarter of 2025. We aim to finance projects worth 2 trillion this year. During the first quarter, potential projects for financing will be reviewed and prepared. We have the experience in raising funds, and it is planned to gather resources from both domestic and international markets. Updating policy documents, regulations, and training staff are crucial. Over the past period, the Development Bank has faced a reputational risk. It is not an exaggeration to say that there are no potential customers or skilled personnel willing to join this bank. Now, I would like to tell businesses and citizens that the Development Bank will operate with a new strategy and culture. We will adhere strictly to laws and regulations, fully implement risk-free management systems, and become a well-governed bank. For this, we have drafted legal reform projects to be discussed in Parliament. We will finance development projects that support exports and businesses capable of competing in international markets. We plan to work with commercial banks to offer export pre-financing, guarantees, and insurance, utilizing joint financing forms with international organizations. What actions are being taken to increase the bank's assets? The reduction in assets is due to not issuing new loans. Therefore, we are conducting research to attract resources from domestic and international markets. The Development Bank is supposed to have a capital fund of 1.2 trillion MNT, but 918 billion MNT is tied up in a risk provision fund for bad loans, so there is a need to increase capital by 910 billion MNT. We have calculated the deficiency in equity caused by non-performing loans and proposed to increase equity by at least 700 billion MNT to the Government. Research showed that we can raise 2 trillion this year and 7-20 trillion MNT in the next 2-3 years to finance major projects needed for Mongolia. What criteria are set for project implementers when providing financing? Project implementers must take responsibility. Not only should the project be economically beneficial, but the proposer of the project must be capable of contributing at least 15% of the project's financing costs.

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Z. Narantuya: The Government, Parliament, and State Themselves Have Played Key Roles in Bringing the Development Bank to Bankruptcy

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: isee.mn

Regarding the current situation and operations of the Development Bank, the CEO Z. Narantuya provided some information. She stated, "Throughout history, representatives from various political factions have been appointed to the different departments and divisions of the Development Bank. At times, these divisions have operated as if they were independent entities. Now, this team is looking to unite for a common goal. For any endeavor, there must be a clear legal environment and path to confidently conduct operations. Many people have been requesting not to be assigned to the loan department and instead be transferred elsewhere. Yet, in a market economy, loans are a financial resource that supports businesses, much like blood flowing through veins. However, those who receive and give out loans have ended up being prosecuted, which needs to be stopped. The Development Bank, embroiled in fear, suspicion, and doubt, is on the verge of not being able to sustain itself, let alone develop Mongolia. The fear is so pervasive that no new loans are being issued, and operations have shrunk to the point where the bank is close to closing its doors. We will work to revive this. The government, parliament, and state have themselves played a key role in bringing the Development Bank to this point of bankruptcy," she said.

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Diplomacy

The decision to allow South Korean citizens to travel visa-free is extended for another year

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The decision to exempt South Korean citizens traveling for tourism for up to 90 days in our country from visa requirements has been extended for another year, according to information from the Embassy of South Korea in Mongolia. The government made this decision in May 2022 to overcome the crisis following the pandemic and to revive tourism, and it was originally set to be valid until December 31, 2024. Now, South Korean tourists can continue to travel to our country without a visa for another year, until the end of this year. On the website of the South Korean Embassy in Mongolia, it is stated that “The Government of Mongolia has extended the permission for South Korean citizens to enter the country visa-free and safely. Therefore, if our country's citizens wish to travel to Mongolia for tourism purposes for up to 90 days, they can enter without a visa and without any special requirements or documentation, as before. However, if traveling for purposes other than tourism, they must obtain the appropriate visa. This decision also plays a significant role in expanding relations between the Republic of Korea and the Republic of China and deepening mutual understanding and friendship between the citizens of the two countries.” The government did not officially inform the country’s tourism professional associations or tour operators in advance of this decision. Sector-related organizations and business owners only learned about it from the information from the South Korean embassy. If it had been officially announced and communicated in advance, companies that receive tourists from South Korea could have prepared their annual travel programs and plans earlier, representatives of tourism businesses stated.

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Over 33,000 Signatures Against Naransuvst Port, Allowing for the Formation of a Working Group

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: isee.mn

Citizens have submitted a petition to remove the section "Reopen and restore the Naransuvst port in Govi-Altai province" from the government's 2024-2028 action plan. This petition was available on the website petition.parlament.mn from December 12 of last year until January 11 of this month. As of yesterday, over 33,000 people have electronically signed the petition. As a result, officials have taken notice, with the number of supportive votes for forming a working group being achieved earlier than expected.

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Mr. Jaap van Hierden Appointed as UN Resident Coordinator in Mongolia

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Mr. Jaap van Hierden has been appointed as the UN Resident Coordinator in Mongolia. He will be responsible for providing unified leadership and coordination of UN system agencies in Mongolia starting from January 2025. Click HERE to read a brief biography of Mr. van Hierden.

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Warning Issued by the Embassy of Mongolia in Seoul

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: news.mn

In the territory of Hannam neighborhood of Yongsan District, Seoul, South Korea, there have been numerous rallies and gatherings, causing a significant increase in movement and traffic congestion. In response, the Embassy of Mongolia in Seoul has issued a warning and recommendations. Specifically, during the time of heavy protests and movement, it advises citizens planning to obtain consular services to prepare their visits well in advance. To recall, South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol declared a state of war emergency, which was soon lifted, leading the opposition and citizens of that country to start expressing their dissent. Consequently, after the announcement of impeachment against Yoon Suk Yeol, South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck Soo immediately began acting in the president's capacity. However, the protests have not subsided to this day, and in recent days, the number of protesters has sharply increased. As a result, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued warnings and recommendations related to the protest happenings in that country. Currently, about 35-40 thousand people have joined the protests, and local media emphasize that this number may rise in the coming days.

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Discussion on Appointment of Ambassadors

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: news.mn

The Standing Committee on Security and Foreign Policy of the State Great Khural will meet on the 8th of this month, Wednesday, to discuss the issue of appointing ambassadors as submitted by the President of Mongolia. The matter was submitted to the State Great Khural by the President for consultation on December 26, 2024. Therefore, it will become clear who the President has proposed to be appointed as ambassadors to the State Great Khural. Subsequently, this issue will be discussed and finalized at the plenary session of the State Great Khural on Thursday. In conjunction with the New Year, information has spread that the President has proposed to appoint former Member of the State Great Khural N. Oyundari as the Ambassador to Poland. Currently, B. Dorj is serving as the Ambassador to Poland from Mongolia. As his term is ending, a new appointment is necessary. It appears that Uygerbayar N. Oyundari, a former Member of the State Great Khural, might be appointed to this position. She was elected to the parliament from Selenge province and served as a Member of the State Great Khural from 2016 to 2020. Since 2023, she has been an advisor to the Secretary General of the Mongolian People’s Party.

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President Khurelsukh proposes the appointment of N. Oyundari as Ambassador to Poland

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The issue of consulting on the appointment of an ambassador will be discussed in this week's agenda of the State Great Hural. President Khurelsukh submitted a proposal to appoint Navaan-Yunden Oyundari as the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Mongolia to the Republic of Poland. It should be recalled that in 2018, documents revealing that politicians close to the current President Khurelsukh obtained loans from the SME Development Fund were made public, among which N. Oyundari's son's company received a loan of 950 million MNT. N. Oyundari has previously served as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and was a member of the State Great Hural from 2016 to 2024. In the last two parliamentary elections, she aspired to run as a candidate, but was unable to due to not receiving a mandate in the central constituency. She started her career at the Mongolian National Productivity Center in 1995, worked on international projects, and became the Head of the Cooperation Department at the Ministry of Nature and Environment in 2000. In 2004, she was elected as Vice President of the "Biological Diversity" foundation convention of the United Nations and in 2006 she served as a consultant for the United Nations in charge of Central Asia in Geneva, Switzerland. From 2008 to 2014, she was nominated by the MPP and elected as a representative for Sukhbaatar district in the NITC. Since 2010, she has been one of the founders of the "BlueMon" group and worked as a consultant for the group. Since 1997, she has served as a non-staff secretary of the Youth Federation of the MPP, and since then, she has been elected as a member of the Executive Council of the Youth Federation, a member of the MPP's committee, and a member of the MPP's kleine hural.

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Infrastructure

Flights from Seoul to Ulaanbaatar resumed after ticket issuance halt

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: isee.mn

Due to an error in the computer network at South Korea's Incheon International Airport, ticketing operations of some foreign airlines were temporarily halted. According to reports from Incheon Airport, an error occurred in the computer networks used by four airlines: Finnair, Royal Dutch Airlines (KLM), Mongolian Airlines (MIAT), and Singapore Airlines, causing ticket issuance to stop for about an hour. Subsequently, the computer network was restored, and ticketing operations resumed. Source: Yonhap News

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Tender for Tuul Highway to be Announced in January and Construction to Start in April

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Ulaanbaatar. As part of the efforts to reduce traffic congestion in Ulaanbaatar city, a development project is underway to build the Tuul Highway, a six-lane road stretching 32 km from the Bayanzurkh bridge in Nalaikh to the safety circle where it branches off towards the western provinces in Songinokhairkhan district. The Mayor of Ulaanbaatar and the City Governor Kh. Nyambaatar provided a detailed briefing on the Tuul Highway project to Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene and related ministers, and visited the point where the bridge tunnel intersects on the Tuul Highway route. The tender for the Tuul Highway will be announced within this month and preparations are being made to start construction work in the coming April. The plan is to build the 32-km highway within 24 months. Building this highway will improve the capacity of transit road transport in the direction of Darkhan and Zamyn-Uud and increase the average speed of road traffic by 13.5 percent. The Tuul Highway will feature overpasses that do not intersect at the same level with the city's roads, allowing for a bypass around Ulaanbaatar city at a speed of 80-100 km/h without disrupting road traffic. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene stated, "In 2025, the government will focus on the development of Ulaanbaatar city based on the regional development concept. In this regard, a permanent operations headquarters has been established. One of the major developments in Ulaanbaatar in 2025 will be the Tuul Highway, which will not include traffic lights or junctions and will be a horizontal axis speedway with six lanes. A vertical axis road will also be built to intersect with the Tuul Highway. City leaders have introduced the plan to complete the construction of the inner city highway within 24 months. This includes organizing land expropriation, tenders, and investment activities. We urge for collective support from the city's citizens in the development of Ulaanbaatar. We will rapidly implement works to address pressing issues like air pollution, energy, and traffic congestion in Ulaanbaatar. Special laws are planned to be enacted to establish the legal framework." Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar highlighted, "Last week's government meeting introduced some changes to the Tuul Highway project, increasing it from four lanes to six lanes. With the incorporation of over 13 km of overpass infrastructure into the design, the drafting of the tender documents has been delayed by a few days, with the tender expected to be announced on the 25th of this month. Pursuant to the current effective Tender Law of Mongolia, we will conduct the tender openly and transparently to select the participant that presents the best tender material with the lowest bid. The construction should start in April 2025. Meetings have been held with local cement and iron manufacturers for the construction. A widespread mineral exploration is underway near the 52nd pass, the results of which will soon be reported at the government meeting. Since the Tuul River basin contains archaeological finds, we plan to cooperate with scholars and researchers from the Academy of Sciences to avoid disturbing these finds. The overpasses will be built with complex engineering designs. While constructing the highway and overpasses, road traffic will not be restricted.

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50 MW Battery Storage Station Supplies 5490 MW of Energy to Central System

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: gogo.mn

As of the 5th of this month, the Baganuur 50 MW capacity battery storage station has supplied 5490.9 MWh of energy to the central system. Located in the Baganuur district's first horoo, this 50 MW capacity and 200 MWh capacity battery storage station began supplying energy to the central region's unified system starting from the 5th of last month. This enables the prevention of electricity restrictions during peak loads for an average of 25,000 households daily. It means supplying enough energy to meet the electricity needs of five provinces. "Monkhurus International" LLC constructed this storage facility. The station consists of four blocks in total. It is equipped with "Envision Energy" LLC’s equipment from China, featuring 27 sets of battery packs in the station. The battery storage station charges itself during the low-energy demand nighttime hours and supplies electrical energy during the high-energy demand evening hours. Additionally, this station does not emit carbon dioxide, being a source of clean green technology or renewable energy.

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Company Selected to Develop Feasibility Study for 13 km Circular Road Project

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: ikon.mn

In Ulaanbaatar city, an international open tender for consulting services was announced for the construction of a new 13 km long circular road on the Great Ring Street. The "New Circular Road Project" aimed to select a consultant to provide preliminary technical and economic feasibility studies (TEFS) and carry out project design services. "CSCIC AECOM Consultants" LLC has been selected for this tender. This consulting firm has been tasked with developing the preliminary TEFS and project design, playing an essential role in improving traffic management and structure in the central area of Ulaanbaatar city. As part of the project, the renovation of automotive and pedestrian roads, as well as public transport roads, will be organized according to international standards. The new 13 km long circular road will feature 4 to 6 lanes, forming a "Complete Street" with integrated pedestrian paths, bicycle lanes, and green spaces. Warning: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) must cite the original source (ikon.mn) whenever using this information in any form, either fully or partially.

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Centers: A Task Force Established to Address Public Transport Issues

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The chairman of the Tuv aimag council, N. Enkhbold, met with the leadership and representatives of enterprises and cooperatives involved in providing road transport services on the Ulaanbaatar-Zuunmod and Ulaanbaatar-Jargalant routes. In this meeting, a task force was established to address the issues that have arisen. During the meeting, various stakeholders expressed their views on the internal conflicts and misunderstandings that have developed among drivers on the Ulaanbaatar-Zuunmod and Ulaanbaatar-Bayanchandmani-Jargalant routes. Issues discussed included bringing in large transports through personal connections, creating monopolies, time constraints, and the problem of unauthorized transport. Passenger transport operations are conducted under a tripartite agreement between the Zuunmod soum administration, the Tuv aimag road transport office, and the National Center for Auto Transport. As a result of the meeting, it was decided that the road transport office will improve service oversight and operation, pay particular attention to scheduling and the issue of unauthorized transport, provide leadership and organization, promote mutual understanding and agreement between drivers and cooperatives, realistically address the current situation, review established agreements, and resolve issues with the task force through relevant channels. Currently, 20 licensed vehicles are operating in intercity transport in Tuv aimag.

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Society

LIVE: Citizens protest against changes to the Foreign Labor Migration Law, demand dismissal of certain members

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: isee.mn

Minister of Labor and Social Protection L. Enkh-Amgalan and other lawmakers have submitted the Foreign Labor Migration Law. However, citizens are protesting against this law and demanding the dismissal of six specific members, led by P. Sainzorig. Additionally, they are calling for the equitable distribution of natural resources to citizens.

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Forms for Civil Complaints in Ten Languages

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: isee.mn

In Korea, forms for 235 types of civil complaints frequently used by foreign residents have been translated into 10 languages, including Mongolian and English, to make it easier for foreigners living in Korea to access government services. Specifically, these languages include Russian, Mongolian, Vietnamese, English, Uzbek, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Thai, and Khmer (Cambodian). Until now, most civil complaint forms were only available in Korean, making it difficult for foreigners and Koreans abroad to file complaints. Consequently, the Ministry of Government Administration and Security in South Korea launched a project last year to translate these forms into multiple languages. Following research into the forms commonly used by foreigners and the necessary languages, covering areas such as family relations, residence registration, immigration, and employment, these 235 types of civil complaint forms were translated and adapted into 10 languages, taking into account the number of foreign residents in Korea and the needs of each relevant organization.

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Apply for the Hungarian Government Scholarship by the 15th of this month

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Hungarian Government's "Stipendium Hungaricum" scholarship program for the 2025-2026 academic year has been officially announced under the memorandum of understanding between the Ministry of Education of Mongolia and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary. Applicants interested in applying can submit their materials by clicking HERE. The deadline for submitting applications for this scholarship is the 15th of this month. You can find detailed information regarding the selection timeline, fields of study, scholarship amount, and required documents on the "Stipendium Hungaricum" website. Please responsibly study the information provided and familiarize yourself with the details.

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Environment

Saving 18 Million Cubic Meters of Groundwater Annually by Using Recycled Water in Energy Production

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: news.mn

"Using groundwater for industrial purposes is wasteful and extravagant. With this project, we aim to replace the groundwater used in power production, specifically at the thermal power plants of Ulaanbaatar city, with recycled water," says D. Mendsaikhan, the director of the Wastewater Recycling Project, implemented under the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) Mongolia Water Compact. This project aims to resolve the long-term water supply issue of Ulaanbaatar city. It is one of the three major initiatives being undertaken by the Government of Mongolia and the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) of the United States. To start, I would like to present some data that highlights the social and economic significance of our project for Ulaanbaatar city and Mongolia as a whole. Firstly, of Mongolia's gross domestic product (GDP), which reached 70.4 trillion MNT in 2023, Ulaanbaatar's economic output accounts for approximately 46.9 trillion MNT, or 66.7%. Secondly, although the city occupies only 0.3% of Mongolia's territory, roughly 4,704.4 km², it is home to about 50% of the population. Thirdly, out of approximately 200,000 registered businesses in Mongolia, 150,000, or 75%, are located in Ulaanbaatar. Among these, about 118,000 are actively operating, representing more than 70% of all active enterprises in the country, according to the National Statistical Office of Mongolia. To sum up, Ulaanbaatar city is the center of Mongolia's social and economic activities. Therefore, the issues faced by the capital are inherently national concerns. Compared to 2017, when the preliminary studies for the Compact Agreement were conducted, Mongolia's GDP has grown 2.5 times, from 28 trillion to 70.4 trillion MNT, in the past 7–8 years. Meanwhile, Ulaanbaatar's GDP has tripled, from 15.7 trillion to 46.9 trillion MNT, and the population has increased from 1.4 million to 1.6 million. Addressing the infrastructure needs, such as energy, heat, and water supply, promptly and effectively is crucial for the city's and the nation's development. In recent years, our city has proactively taken decisive measures to resolve its pressing issues, such as the expansion of the Amgalan Thermal Power Plant, the Sukhbaatar sub-center's heating plant, and the Bagnuur Battery Station. Despite these efforts, supply cannot meet demand. Implementing the Water Compact aims to preemptively address the water supply issue. Ensuring an efficient water supply is essential for the economic development of Ulaanbaatar city. According to studies conducted in 2015-2017, the city could face a shortage of clean water if the issue is not resolved in the near future. While water scarcity should not be interpreted as the complete depletion of water resources, it implies a demand-supply imbalance requiring constrained usage. The Water Compact, established between the MCC and the Government of Mongolia, is a comprehensive program aiming to increase the overall water supply of Ulaanbaatar city. Funded with a total of 461.8 million USD, where 350 million USD is a grant from the U.S. government and up to 111.8 million USD is invested by the Government of Mongolia, the Compact incorporates both hard infrastructure projects and initiatives to enhance human resources and institutional capacity in the water sector. To provide a new source of drinking water, a project is underway to establish new water sources in the western parts of Ulaanbaatar, including areas such as the Biocombinat. Based on findings from the 1980s, this new source can sustainably yield 50 million cubic meters of water annually, to be purified and utilized. Alongside this, a Wastewater Recycling Plant will be constructed to treat wastewater from the new Central Wastewater Treatment Plant and recycle it for industrial use in the power sector. By using recycled wastewater for power production, up to 18 million cubic meters of groundwater will be saved annually. This makes it possible to preserve groundwater resources for future generations.

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Tolgoit, First District, Khailaast Area Air is "Very Polluted"

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: isee.mn

As of 10:30 am today, the air in the Tolgoit, First District, and Khailaast areas is "Very Polluted." In the First District, the PM10 level has reached 662, exceeding the 500 threshold, and the PM2.5 level is at 498, also indicating "Very Polluted" air. In the Tolgoit area, the air quality index ranges from 237 to 379, indicating "Highly Polluted" air. Furthermore, in the Khailaast area, the air quality index ranges from 429 to 452, signifying "Very Polluted" air conditions.

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Despite City Spending 250-300 Million Tugriks Annually, Heavy Metal Soil Pollution Remains a Threat

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: isee.mn

The Capital's Environmental Office has spent 550 million tugriks over the past two years organizing work to reduce heavy metal pollution in the soil. However, the latest study found arsenic, zinc, lead, chromium, copper, and other heavy metals in the soil of seven districts of the city. Specifically, R. Enkhtaivan, acting head of the Capital's Environmental Office, issued an official order to "Implement work to neutralize soil pollution and degradation in collaboration with professional organizations," with a budget of 250 million tugriks allocated for pollution neutralization in a 10-hectare area. Furthermore, a second order was issued by R. Enkhtaivan for "Reducing heavy metal soil pollution," planning additional work on a 10-hectare area with a budget of 300 million tugriks. Experts recommend planting one and multi-year plants such as ryegrass, clover, sainfoin, Sudan grass, sunflower, and corn to reduce soil's heavy metal pollution, and the Capital’s Environmental Office spends 250-300 million tugriks annually on these efforts. - THE CAPITAL LAND ORGANIZATION OFFICE SPENDS 70 MILLION TUGRIKS FOR HEAVY METAL ANALYSIS - Yet, a soil sample analysis conducted at 110 sites across the capital's seven districts revealed the presence of arsenic, zinc, lead, chromium, copper, and other heavy metals. Specifically, the Capital Land Organization Office announced a tender with a budget cost of 70 million tugriks and conducted a study on soil heavy metal pollution funded by the local budget of Ulaanbaatar. "Green Service" LLC won the tender and collected samples from 110 sites in the seven districts of Ulaanbaatar. The study results showed the presence of arsenic, zinc, lead, chromium, copper, and other heavy metals in the soil of the city's seven districts.

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The number of livestock decreased by 10.9% or seven million heads compared to the previous year

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The National Statistical Office presented the preliminary results of last year's livestock census. In 2024, a total of 57.6 million livestock were registered nationwide. Among them, there were 4.7 million horses, 5.1 million cattle, 24.5 million sheep, 22.9 million goats, and 480.6 thousand camels, as stated in the research report. These figures show a 10.9% decrease, or a reduction of seven million heads, compared to the previous year. Additionally, last year, 9.3 million livestock died unnaturally nationwide. The highest losses were recorded in Sukhbaatar, Khentii, and Arkhangai provinces. Moreover, sheep experienced the largest decline, decreasing by 16.7% compared to the previous year. In provinces with severe winter conditions such as Darkhan-Uul, Bayankhongor, Zavkhan, Uvs, Dornod, Dornogovi, and Khentii, the number of livestock decreased by between 9.5 thousand and 1.9 million from 2023. In 2024, 16.1 million offspring were raised nationwide. The number of breeding livestock decreased by 3.9 million, and the number of offspring raised decreased by 2.3 million compared to the previous year. Compared to the previous year, breeding livestock decreased by 17% and offspring raised decreased by 12.4%. Additionally, a total of 9.3 million head of large livestock, accounting for 14.3% of total livestock, died unnaturally nationwide. Specifically, 5 million sheep, 2.9 million goats, 792.4 thousand cattle, 553.8 thousand horses, and 11.2 thousand camels died. Khuvsgul registered the most livestock in the country with 5.2 million heads. Khentii province's Ömnödelger became the district with the largest number of livestock, registering 507.9 thousand heads. Additionally, Arkhangai led in cattle and horses, Ömnögovi in camels, Övörkhangai in sheep, and Bayankhongor in goats. The livestock census report also included information about herder households. Specifically, the number of herder households increased to 249.4 thousand in 2024, up by 1.5 thousand from the previous year. However, the number of households with more than a thousand livestock decreased by 2.6 thousand. Meanwhile, the number of households with up to 50 livestock increased by 7.4 thousand, and those with 51-200 livestock increased by 3.8 thousand.

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Developing Climate Change News

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring (NAMEM) has been using high-speed computers from the American company “Cray” since 2011 to prepare daily weather forecasts. Currently, these computers have reached the end of their usage period, causing their speed to decrease significantly, operating at less than 30% of their total capacity. With funding from the Green Climate Fund, the United Nations Development Programme, together with the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry, are working through the ADAPT project to replace these computers with ones that are 16 times more powerful. With the help of the new computers, it will be possible to process weather forecasts with greater accuracy over longer periods. Additionally, by calculating the effects of climate change and future projections using multiple models, it will increase the effectiveness of research work. The agreement to equip the National Agency with high-speed technology was made by the parties late last year. Matilda Dimovska, the resident representative of the United Nations Development Programme, said, “We plan to implement the project to install high-performance supercomputers not only in Mongolia but also in 2-3 other countries with financing from the Green Climate Fund. As the frequency of natural disasters increases, and sudden and extreme weather events become more common due to climate change, it is crucial to develop comprehensive forecasting and early warning systems.”

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PHOTO: The Air Quality Index is Worst in the First Quarter and Khailaast

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: ikon.mn

According to the 1:00 PM measurement data of the air quality index in the capital city, the First Quarter has an index of 485, and Khailaast has 445, indicating very high pollution. Meanwhile, Bayankhoshuu and Dambadarjaa are experiencing high pollution, and the air is polluted around Sharkhad, Mongol Gazari, and Yarmag. In contrast, the air is less polluted around 5 Buudal, the Bogd Khan Palace Museum, Urgakh Naran, and Nalaikh. When the air quality index is between 401-500, it is advised for everyone to stay indoors to avoid physical exertion, to venture out into fresh air, for those with chronic illnesses to regularly monitor their blood pressure, be under medical supervision, and take medications on time. Warning: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social media, and Websites) must mention the original source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, in full or partially. Please take note!

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Innovation

E. Anar: Mongolia Becomes the 12th Asian Country to Implement "Apple Pay" Service

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The head of the Payment Transactions Department of the Bank of Mongolia, E. Anar, discussed the "Apple Pay" service implementation. - "Apple Pay" has been launched in Mongolia. Could you please provide brief information about this service? - The "Apple Pay" service, which was launched in 2018, has become the most advanced payment tool globally, expanding its reach to over 90 countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and North America, with more than 800 million users worldwide. This service enables instant transactions using Apple's smart devices, such as iPhones and Apple Watches, with biometric technologies like fingerprint and facial recognition. Moreover, users can make payments for Apple services like Apple Music, Apple News+, and Apple TV+, purchase apps and games from the App Store, and increase their iCloud storage using "Apple Pay." - What role did the Bank of Mongolia play in this initiative as the country’s central bank? - The Bank of Mongolia oversees and organizes the national payment system, ensuring the readiness of the necessary payment system infrastructure and technology. We support and cooperate with commercial banks and fintech companies to implement projects aimed at quick and reliable financial transactions for citizens. Since 2010, the Bank of Mongolia initiated and implemented the national brand card “₮” in collaboration with banks by 2012. After signing the "M/Chip Technology License Agreement" with Mastercard in 2019, we transitioned the national brand “₮” card to secure EMV chip and NFC contactless technology within two years. This laid the foundation for numerous services, such as QR code transactions based on the chip "₮" card and the tokenization of "₮" card information. Cardholders can also make contactless payments for low-value transactions without a PIN in public transport, parking, and tolls. These measures laid the groundwork for "Apple Pay" to launch in Mongolia, making this world-leading payment tool available in our country. In addition to Mastercard, it is worth acknowledging "Bonum" LLC, a representative fintech company. "Bonum" LLC is the first fintech company to acquire a license to issue and accept cards and has become a principal member and service provider for Mastercard. By partnering with Bonum, "Apple Pay" successfully entered the Mongolian market, serving as an intermediary connecting banks. - What benefits does the launch of "Apple Pay" bring to citizens within Mongolia's payment system? - Mongolia has become the 12th country in Asia to implement this service. Within two weeks of its introduction, over 70,000 citizens in Mongolia have begun using "Apple Pay" for their transactions. The main advantage for citizens is the ability to make international transactions using the national "₮" card, offering a new gateway for international payments. Furthermore, our national brand card now has a standalone infrastructure that can be utilized internationally, reducing geopolitical risks and enhancing national security. Additionally, over 150,000 POS devices in Mongolia can now facilitate easy and quick payments via iPhones. - Looking ahead, what policies and initiatives does the Bank of Mongolia have regarding the development of the payment system? - We aim to expand the usage of the national brand "₮" card and establish avenues for it to be accepted by other payment card networks abroad. Within this framework, a memorandum of understanding with EFT Solutions of Hong Kong is in place to enable transactions using the "₮" card in Hong Kong by 2025. Associated with being Mastercard’s service provider in Mongolia, Bonum LLC is also poised to introduce new digital solutions promoted by Mastercard to the Mongolian market, such as Mastercard Local, Pay Link, and international money transfers. The introduction of "Apple Pay" has sparked interest in other major players in the smart mobile market, like Samsung and Google, to consider introducing Samsung Pay and Google Pay services into the Mongolian market. We plan to support such projects from banks and financial institutions actively.

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Trade and Development Bank Achieves PCI DSS Compliance for the 8th Year

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Trade and Development Bank successfully implemented the updated version of the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) in 2024, thus maintaining full compliance with this international standard for the 8th consecutive year. The bank received certification for version 4.0 of the standard from a Qualified Security Assessor (QSA) organization. This standard was first introduced in September 2006 by five leading companies – American Express, Discover Financial Services, JCB International, MasterCard Worldwide, and Visa International – with the goal of ensuring, protecting, and improving the security of payment cardholder information. Trade and Development Bank initially adopted the standard in 2017. As part of the PCI DSS compliance efforts, the bank has established processes to detect and prevent fraudulent transactions conducted via payment cards, thereby reducing associated risks. By implementing the updated version 4.0, the bank is able to protect its core business that involves customers, business partners, and affiliate organizations, safeguarding payment card information from unauthorized alterations, deletions, or disclosures. Additionally, the bank has developed a management system, policies, operations, infrastructure organization, and a secure software development environment that align with international standards. The Trade and Development Bank is pleased to assure you that your payment card and other financial transactions are securely protected in accordance with international standards. Moving forward, we will continue to rigorously protect our customers' information security at an international level, providing you with responsible and reliable financial services. TOGETHER FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
TRADE AND DEVELOPMENT BANK
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Media outlets (Television, Radio, Social, and Web pages) must cite our source (ikon.mn) in full or part when using our information in any form.

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U.Bayarzul: Building materials that substitute imported products can be produced using ash

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

We discussed with U.Bayarzul, a senior research assistant and chemistry Ph.D. at the Chemistry and Chemical Technology Institute's Laboratory of Materials Science and Technology, about the environmental and economic benefits of producing glass-ceramic materials using waste raw materials. He graduated from the Material Technology School of MUST in 2006 as a chemical technologist of new materials and earned a master's degree in technical sciences in 2008 with the thesis "Study on Phosphorus Fertilizer Dissolution Improvement through Mechanochemistry and Activation with Additives." Recently, he defended his doctoral thesis on "Chemical Technology Research of Producing Glass-Ceramic Material from Waste Raw Materials." - What was the main purpose and significance of your research on producing glass-ceramic material from waste raw materials? - In our country, industrial waste raw materials that contaminate the environment, such as ash from thermal power plants and domestic waste glass, accumulate more each year. My main research goal was to use these as primary raw materials, with feldspar and rare earth elements like cerium oxide as additional phase-creating and crystallizing agents, to develop the basis for technology to produce a new type of technical material—glass ceramic—while determining its properties, composition, and technical specifications. Practically, the significance lies in conserving natural resources by utilizing waste, reducing environmental impact, and ultimately, developing strong, crystallized materials in market demand for use as building and technical glass-ceramic materials. - I heard that your research on detailing the chemical and physical properties of ash to use as a primary raw material for a new material had not been done before in our country. - Studies on using ash as a small addition to concrete have been conducted since the 1970s. However, detailed studies on the chemical and physical properties of ash to use it as a primary raw material for creating new materials had not been done. But starting in 2010, under the leadership of academician J.Temuujin, research at the Material Science Technology Laboratory of the Academy of Sciences' Chemistry and Chemical Technology Institute began using Mongolian power plant ash to create zeolite and geopolymer types of construction and road materials, as well as glass ceramics, that absorb heavy and toxic elements effectively. This experimental research determined the possibility of creating glass-ceramic material by using two types of waste (power plant ash and waste window glass) and raw materials containing feldspar and rare earth elements through three different methods. We studied and determined the physicochemical properties of the products, developed a mathematical model of the experiments, and identified key factors. We also conducted a preliminary economic calculation for producing building exterior facing slabs. - What positive impact does using this type of waste raw material have on the environment? - Greenhouse gases from waste significantly contribute to global warming, accounting for 15-20% of total greenhouse gas emissions. The effects of global warming have disrupted ecosystem balance, leading to increased natural disasters and shortages in water and food supplies. In today's world, with decreasing resources due to industrialization and consumption, there is a growing need to conserve natural resources by using them fully and without waste. Consequently, the practice of using waste as an alternative raw material instead of depleting natural resources is expanding worldwide. Today, what was once considered waste that needed disposal is now viewed as a resource. The ash produced by thermal power plants is classified as the fifth largest raw material resource globally. For our country, which lacks nuclear power plants, has underdeveloped renewable energy production, and relies on thermal power plants for 85% of its energy, this is a highly significant resource for the near and mid-term future. In Mongolia, where 49.5% of the population—or over 1.7 million people—live in Ulaanbaatar, a number that is rising yearly, energy consumption is increasing in parallel with population growth. Our country uses large quantities of coal for fuel in thermal power plants. The coal typically contains 10-20% minerals, which remain as ash after burning. Every year, power plants discharge 800,000 tons of ash, with Ulaanbaatar's "Power Plant-4" disposing of approximately 0.3 million tons and "Power Plant-3" another 0.1 million tons, causing environmental pollution and taking up vast areas. For example, "Power Plant-4" spends 5-6 billion MNT to build ash storage ponds, which fill up in about five years, necessitating the construction of new storage sites. In addition, about one billion MNT is spent annually on storing waste ash. Overall, it costs about two billion MNT annually to manage and store the waste ash from "Power Plant-4." In 2021, glass and glass products made up 10.2% of the collected waste aimed for recycling. Utilizing rather than disposing of this waste can help reduce environmental pollution and the area affected by pollution, alongside being economically beneficial. - Could you provide detailed information on the economic benefits if any? - On the global market, the lowest price for one square meter of building exterior glass-ceramic cladding is 11 USD. Meanwhile, the production cost of the building exterior glass-ceramic cladding we created is 30,292 MNT per square meter. This indicates the possibility of producing high-quality building materials using waste to substitute imported products at a lower cost. - What raw materials are used primarily? - To produce glass-ceramic material, natural raw materials such as granite, mica, kaolin, silica sand, limestone, dolomite, feldspar, zircon, and quartz are used. In recent years, industrial waste such as fly ash from power plants, rice husk ash, and sugarcane ash have been used. Since ashes contain silicon, aluminum, calcium, and iron oxides, researchers believe they can be used as a raw material for glass-ceramics. - How do you prepare and process the raw materials? - We selected Baganuur coal filter ash from "Power Plant-4", cracked waste window glass, field spar from Dornogovi's Airag deposit, and 99% pure cerium oxide from China as the raw materials for producing glass-ceramic material. We conducted the research through three methods. The first method involved traditionally melting the mix for glass-ceramic material in a kiln at high temperatures, then quickly cooling it to prepare an amorphous preform, which was dried, sieved through a 76-micron sieve, and pressed under 20 MPa pressure in semi-dry form to prepare crystallized material at 700-1000 degrees Celsius. For producing glass-ceramic materials, preparing the raw blend is critical. Generally, glass ceramics consist of a ceramic structure dominated by crystallites over an amorphous structure. In other words, the process involves controlled crystallization of glass to form a ceramic material dominated by crystallites. Two-step thermal treatment is performed to seed the formation of nuclei for crystallization. Properly establishing the temperature and time for these thermal processing steps is vital. - Are the facilities for preparing and processing these in our country sufficient? - We have sufficient equipment in laboratory conditions to carry out experimental research for producing glass-ceramic materials. However, there is a shortage of equipment for studying the properties of materials produced. For instance, we tested the morphology of our glass-ceramic material in Germany. - Can glass-ceramic material produced from waste raw materials be strong in terms of properties? - Waste-based glass-ceramic material is just as strong as other glass ceramics of the same type in terms of properties. In other words, it has high mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and wear resistance. It also has unique properties to withstand heat and electricity, showing its potential for use as a technical material. Furthermore, it is a new advanced technical material widely used in fields like medicine, paint industry, metallurgy, and optics. - What difficulties did you encounter during the research? - One major issue we face in research is funding. There is also a lack of equipment and tools. Our laboratory conducted this research within the framework of the project "Research on Processing Various Ashes to Produce New Materials," financed by the Science and Technology Foundation. - Is there potential for our country to develop and manufacture widely used products by processing glass-ceramic materials from waste raw materials? - We have plenty of waste ash, which is the main raw material for glass-ceramic materials, in our country. Therefore, I can confidently say that we have the full potential to manufacture glass-ceramic materials for use in technology and construction.

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Launched Website for Vehicle Registration Services

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The www.autobox.mn online platform provides access to various vehicle registration services, including: - Cancellations - Import registrations - Vehicle transfers - Technical inspection appointment bookings - Intercity transport ticket bookings - Online exams for specialized drivers Additionally, it offers a single-window access to the integrated transport system, auction system, and domestic cargo transport system, according to the Ministry of Road and Transport Development.

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Health

Air Pollution's Harmful Effects on Physical and Mental Health

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Air pollution is not just a bothersome topic but has long become a real threat to our lives. While during the COVID pandemic, 980,000 people were infected and around 2,000 people died, the number of deaths due to air pollution is three times higher. In the past 10 years, the incidence of respiratory diseases among the residents of Ulaanbaatar has increased rapidly, with cases of infections via the respiratory tract increasing 2.7 times per 10,000 people. There are many such terrifying statistics to list. So what solutions do we have? At a time when the entire country is without immediate solutions, the only thing we can do is try to support our immune system, consistently ventilate, and wear masks to try not to get sick. Of course, individuals and organizations do not want to just sit and watch, and have begun to take action. Some places are selling air purifiers at cost as part of their social responsibility, and tourist camps around Ulaanbaatar are providing services at a 50-100% discount to people who come to get fresh air during the day. Although it is unclear what percentage of the affected population is reached, it is a great help and an example of appropriate social responsibility to those who actually go there. Therefore, Apu Dairy has launched Re’new DETOX water by their Pro+ brand. Detox is short for detoxification, and the vitamins and biologically active substances in this water help support the liver's detoxification process, help eliminate toxins from the body, and purify the blood. RE’NEW DETOX water has no age restriction, making it suitable for everyone affected by air pollution. By choosing this water from the store, you can support your health and protect yourself from pollution to some extent. Warning: Media outlets (Television, Radio, Social, and Web pages) must cite their source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, in full or in part.

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Regular monitoring of respiratory infection outbreaks in China

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The regular meeting of the State Emergency Commission (NEC) was held. The meeting discussed information about the HMVP virus spreading in China and some European countries, as well as the progress of updating the solid fuel standards and the measures being implemented. The relevant authorities were given instructions on these topics. Minister of Health T. Mönkhsaikhan stated, "The HMVP virus is transmitted through droplets or aerosols produced when coughing or sneezing, but it can also be transmitted through close contact with an infected person or by interacting with a contaminated environment. Children, people with weakened immune systems, and the elderly are susceptible, and it can co-infect with other respiratory viruses. In China, there is a trend of increasing positive rates of respiratory syncytial virus among children aged 0-4 and human metapneumovirus (HMVP) among children under 14, particularly in northern regions. As schools begin, there is a tendency for influenza outbreaks to increase. In our country, this type of viral infection has not been recorded, but regular monitoring and research are being conducted. Influenza and influenza-like illnesses are observed across all age groups, but they are most prevalent in the 0-4 age group, accounting for 57%. Currently, due to the start of the winter break for general education schools, the outbreak of influenza and influenza-like illnesses has relatively decreased. However, as school resumes, there is a tendency for influenza outbreaks to increase. Therefore, preventive measures are being implemented at all levels. Additionally, recommendations and advice on wearing masks, washing hands with soap, using alcohol-based hand sanitizers, improving immunity, ventilating spaces, and getting the flu vaccine are continually being provided to the population." Based on this information, the Deputy Prime Minister and NEC Chairman S. Amarsaikhan tasked the relevant authorities with the following instructions: - Prepare a plan to prevent the spread of human metapneumovirus (HMVP) infections spreading in China and some European countries by regularly delivering preventive information to the public.

Develop a plan to prevent influenza and influenza-like illnesses by ensuring an adequate supply of medical equipment and conducting risk assessments in this area.
Continuously disseminate public health recommendations and advice to the public.
Implement preventive measures at all levels, paying special attention to the availability and accessibility of medicines.
Ensure preparedness at all levels of the health sector, conduct research on at-risk population groups, improve monitoring, ensure the readiness of medical services, and prepare human resources.
Instruct provincial and local authorities to pay attention to the health of citizens who are migrating.

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Hospitals in Mongolia Have Standards But Do Not Follow Them

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

In our country's healthcare sector, over 30 laws and legal acts are currently in force. There are over 980 standards alone—imagine that. Unfortunately, officials do not enforce or oversee most of these, yet they keep complaining that "this law doesn't work, let's draft more" or "that standard is outdated, let's create new ones." In reality, even though there are about 1000 standards, laws, and regulations in place to improve the sector's current weaknesses—lack of skills, unethical personnel, dilapidated buildings, neglected environments, and barely operational equipment—they are not being implemented. In other words, to improve the healthcare sector, especially the structure, operations, service quality, environment, and accessibility of public hospitals, it is necessary to enforce and monitor these existing standards, laws, and regulations before anything else. A hospital is not just a place where patients are examined and treated but an environment responsible for ensuring the health and safety of patients, their families, and healthcare workers. However, due to the failure to meet necessary standards, Mongolian hospitals are being rejected and criticized by their patients, with quality and accessibility exiled far away. It's as if the directors of state-owned hospitals have forgotten what standards should be followed in providing healthcare services. This article reminds them of that. A successful country is said to start at the doorstep. However, the external environment of our hospitals is unremarkable, with addresses usually unclear, making it difficult to find the entrance. Many hospital administrations have illegally used or sold the designated lands, as shown by several cases. As a result, the public has forgotten what standards should be upheld regarding hospital environments. The hospital environment is not just a canopy with benches, nor is it merely washing and cleaning. At the very least, it is about preventing the spread of infection inside and outside the hospital. However, according to research by the World Bank, WHO, and other donor organizations, most state hospitals in Mongolia fail to meet the basic sanitary, health, waste management, ventilation, and sterility requirements and remain below international standards. Walls inside hospitals should have colors that prevent visual stimuli. It has been studied which standards should be implemented and met in hospital environments. Second-level hospitals should adhere to standards such as the Medical Building Guidelines BD 31-115-12, Unified Hospital Structure and Operation MNS 5095:2017, Central Hospital Structure and Operation Standard MNS 6330-1:2012, Health Facility Environmental Health Requirements MNS 6392:2013, Urban and village planning, construction norms and rules BNB 30-01-04, etc. Meeting these requirements, implementing, and monitoring them is the task of government bodies at the administrative level. In our case, however, these regulations function in the opposite way. Government institutions responsible for enforcing the law have been known to take over and steal hospital land and outside environments. We should highlight the Environmental Health Requirements MNS 6392:2013, which is of particular importance in specialized hospitals. Certain district hospitals that provide seven or more services are included in this category. The specialized hospital is defined as "registered in the state registry, with a special permit, providing reference level services and training and research in one or several professions nationwide, and tasked with supporting other health institutions with methods and expertise." In MNS 6392:2013, details of the external environment of public hospitals are specified meticulously. For instance, plants and trees that do not cause allergies should be planted 6-10 meters away from buildings, aligned with windowless walls to avoid shading rooms and in environments that neutralize allergenic substances. Outdoor waste bins should be placed on the lower side of the wind, 1.5-2 meters away from benches and canopies, every 30 meters, while complying with Article 15 of the Waste Law. Moreover, the exterior environment, buildings, rooms, and facilities should meet sanitation and occupational safety standards. Windows and doors should have dedicated shutters and canopies, be a light color, well-sealed, locked, and open outward. MNS 6392:2013 even specifies that hospital walls in departments such as maternity, mental health, neurology, and ophthalmology should have colors that prevent neurological stimulation and do not negatively impact diagnosis and treatment. Hospital floors should also be non-slip, safe, sanitary, and pleasing using specific tiles. Emergency, intensive care departments should be obstacle-free, hospitals’ roofs and walls waterproof, and interiors protected from air and moisture. Hospitals should provide hot and cold water taps in sanitary rooms, antibacterial soap, disposable towels, disinfection agents, and have specialized elevators to ensure patient safety and service continuity. Moreover, specific details that are possibly unheard of, like having air ventilation systems designed for general and special purposes, are detailed in the standards. Patients should receive standard-compliant services. General service quality and access in public hospitals have been regulated by the Specialized Hospital Structure and Operation MNS 6330:2017 standard. This standard states that issues with hospital accessibility are not limited to equipment and human resources; every citizen has equal rights to receive services regardless of location. Yet in reality, not only in the provinces but even in the capital, obtaining quality services has become challenging. According to the standard, patients should receive services that meet the requirements from the outpatient department to diagnosis and treatment until discharge. However, most of us leave the hospital feeling like we’ve been "treated" without witnessing this. Let's briefly outline what's stated in MNS 6330:2017 regarding this: To ensure continuity of care, hospitals should manage their workload, create a conducive service environment, regulate patient reception, transfers, and discharge. Hospitals should establish patient-friendly environments, promptly provide service and information, accept and address feedback, and manage the flow of patients, hiring guides and assistants as needed. In the outpatient waiting area, the rights and duties of the physician and patient, package of care, fees, and discounts, and hospital organization and services should be displayed clearly. Accommodations should be provided for disabled patients, children, and the elderly. Emergency patients should be accepted, triaged, and treated according to relevant procedures without waiting or scheduling. When admitting patients for inpatient treatment, hospitals must formally transfer patients during staff shift changes and when transferring between departments. From admission to home discharge or transfer, the process of care must be transparent, timely, and comprehensible. Upon discharge, patients should be advised on conducted tests, treatments, and future necessary care and services. Patients are discharged using safe and suitable transport, as specified. Dialysis requires 12 square meters per machine. Earlier, our newspaper discussed how human rights are frequently violated in hospital environments. According to the MNS 6330:2017 standard for Specialized Hospital Structure and Operation, the conditions, space in square meters for patients, and the number of doctors and specialists providing services in emergency and reception wards are all specified in detail. For example, in pediatric emergency sections, it is required to have one doctor and one nurse per four beds, and in intensive care, this applies to every two beds. The standard also stipulates one doctor and one nurse per two beds in delivery and obstetric services to maintain normal hospital service operations. However, in reality, our maternity hospitals often operate with a single doctor and nurse per shift, which is pitiful. Moreover, every state hospital's reception and emergency department should be equipped with examination lights, surgical and bactericidal lamps, blood pressure, respiratory, cardiac monitors, patient beds, surveillance monitors, suction electric devices, defibrillators, automatic syringe pumps, ultrasound, X-ray, oxygen concentrators, pulse oximeters, and more. Intensive care, internal medicine, neurology, dentistry, ENT, surgery, endoscopy, imaging, ultrasound, dermatology, trauma, mental health, rehabilitation, palliative care departments, kitchen, cleaning, sterilization, and waste disposal areas should have specific equipment and personnel per standards. Standards even specify the area size for treatment rooms; for example, information and waiting rooms should be at least 10 square meters, with 0.38 square meters per person, 1.2 square meters per coat hanger, doctor consultation rooms 12 square meters, surgery and gynecology 18-24, 12 for a dialysis machine, 3-4 square meters per person for inhalation areas, and 3 square meters for urine specimen collection areas. In the healthcare sector, around 1000 standards and regulations, such as Dietary Treatment for Common Diseases, Medicines and Medical Supplies in the Emergency Box, General Requirements for the Storage and Distribution of Medicines and Medical Equipment, Technical Requirements for Decontaminating Hazardous Materials in Natural Foci Infections, Autopsy Methodology and Structure of Pathological Diagnosis, Structure and Operation of Maternity Homes, Occupational Safety and Health, Medical Building Guidelines, and others, are in force in our country. Yet, as mentioned, public hospitals' service quality remains unsatisfactory, accessibility is poor, safe environments are scarce, sanitary facilities are lacking, waste management is deficient, there is no semblance of an external environment, and interior ventilation and sterilization remain below standard, with cramped spaces. Even if the sector has 1000 standards, they become "useless" if not enforced. Simply put, if they cannot ensure these standards are maintained, they cannot protect the health of Mongolian people. Otherwise, what is the purpose of having so many laws and regulations?

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Electronic Cigarettes and the Decision of the Governor of Tuv Province: Legal, Health, and Business Disputes

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: isee.mn

Recently, in Mongolia, the use of electronic cigarettes and related legislative issues have attracted public attention. The governor of Tuv province, L. Tömörchödör, has issued a decision to ban the sale of electronic cigarettes in the province, which has sparked debate among the public. Some lawyers consider this decision illegal, as it exceeds legal powers. Similar decisions were previously made by the governors of Ömnögovi and Darkhan-Uul provinces but were nullified by court rulings. Health Issues: Is it true or misinformation? It has been reported that 20 children in the province have suffered from lung disease due to electronic cigarette use and have been hospitalized. However, the specific hospitals and diagnoses are unclear, casting doubt on the authenticity of this information. If this information is proven false, it could have a negative impact on the governor's position and serve as grounds for administrative court proceedings. Business Interests and Political Influence: Some believe that decisions against electronic cigarettes are influenced by lobbying from traditional tobacco business operators. The traditional tobacco industry is highly profitable worldwide, and major companies in this sector are said to exert influence over legislative bodies to secure favorable decisions. There is also speculation that the WHO is covertly funded by pharmaceutical and tobacco companies. Electronic cigarettes are considered by some countries to be less harmful than traditional cigarettes, with the potential to reduce the amount of toxic substances. However, this is seen as conflicting with the commercial interests of the traditional tobacco industry, leading to an "information war" against electronic cigarettes. Mongolia and Global Standards: In Mongolia, tobacco control legislation must be tightened to protect health while ensuring fair business competition. However, policy regarding electronic cigarettes remains unclear, causing confusion about health, legal, and business issues among the public. The dispute between electronic and traditional cigarettes highlights the need to consider health policy, business interests, and information integrity collectively. Mongolia should adopt science-based policies consistent with international standards to establish a foundation for addressing this issue.

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B. Enkhtaivan: If Children's Cold or Flu Worsens, Swelling of the Brain Can Lead to the Risk of Respiratory and Heart Failure

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: itoim.mn

B. Enkhtaivan: If children's cold or flu worsens, swelling of the brain can lead to the risk of respiratory and heart failure. Regarding the complications of flu and flu-like illnesses and current issues, the National Center for Maternal and Child Health (NCMCH) and the National Center for Communicable Diseases (NCCD) provided an update. B. Enkhtaivan, a senior doctor in pediatric intensive care at NCMCH, said: "The H1N1 strain of influenza A and the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are predominant. The H1N1 strains of influenza A cause severe and acute lung damage. They have a high virulence that can easily lead to complications in other organs. The respiratory syncytial virus primarily affects infants under six months old. It damages their lungs, leading to respiratory failure and increased oxygen demand. Children who experience respiratory failure, even if their pneumonia is not severe, may faint, have seizures, arch their backs, cry, and become restless and unable to sleep. Due to oxygen deficiency, carbon dioxide levels rise, causing the brain to swell, which is directly related to brain insufficiency resulting from colds and flu. Intensive care services and treatment become absolutely necessary. Young children, those who are weakened, obese, have heart defects, cerebral palsy, weak immunity, or chronic illnesses are the most affected. More than half of those in intensive care are such children. If necessary treatment is not done quickly, the brain will continue to swell, potentially leading to the cessation of breathing and heartbeat. Therefore, we cannot consider this a simple cold. Parents must be very responsible and monitor their children closely." Secondly, it is noted that the complications of colds and flu are expressed through the failure of multiple organs. Specifically, if young children under five develop pneumonia and their lungs deteriorate, at least 3 to 5-6 organs may be compromised. Therefore, if children's colds or flu become severe, it should be understood as leading to multiple organ failure. Additionally, intestinal function is disrupted. Due to our country's cold, dry climate and high air pollution, we are more heavily affected by flu and flu-like illnesses. Children breathe the same air we do. NCCD: In the capital city, the level of flu and flu-like illness outbreaks is at an epidemic level as of the last week. Specifically, out of 111,819 outpatient visits in the capital city, 13,659 cases of flu and flu-like illnesses were registered. Thus, 12.2% of all visits were due to flu and flu-like illnesses, an increase of 0.2% from the previous week's average. Of the 15,025 emergency calls received by the city's emergency medical service center in the past week, 21% were flu and flu-like illness calls. Respiratory tract infections accounted for 87.8% of all children currently hospitalized.

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VIDEO: "Young children are experiencing multiple organ failure due to complications from colds and flu"

Published: 2025-01-06 | Translated from: isee.mn

The National Center for Infectious Diseases presented the current situation of flu and flu-like illnesses. In the capital city, the spread of flu and flu-like illnesses reached epidemic levels in the last week. The number of children receiving services for flu and flu-like illnesses has decreased by 28%. As of the 52nd week, 111,819 outpatient visits were carried out in the capital city, of which 13,659 cases were diagnosed as flu and flu-like illnesses, accounting for 12.2% of the total visits. The capital's emergency services received 15,025 calls last week, with 21% being related to flu and flu-like illnesses. The capital's 21 hospitals have provided services on 2,759 beds, including the addition of 1,430 extra beds to the initial 1,329 pediatric inpatient beds. Currently, 1,541 children are being treated in 20 hospitals in the capital city. Respiratory infections are the cause of 87.8% of all hospitalized children. The bed occupancy rate, based on the basic number of beds, was 115.9%, which is a 65% decrease compared to the previous week. Over the past weekend, 2,270 children were seen at the reception and emergency departments of 21 hospitals. This is a 28.6% decrease compared to the previous week. According to the National Center for Maternal and Child Health, the H1N1 virus and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) cause acute and strong damage to the lungs, leading to complications in other organs. Dr. Enkhtaivan, a doctor of the Intensive Care Unit at the National Center for Maternal and Child Health, explained the complications of flu and flu-like illnesses. Since the onset of the flu outbreak, the H1N1 strain of the flu virus and RSV have been predominant. These strains are highly virulent, causing acute and severe lung damage and easily leading to complications in other organs. Colds and flu are diseases that disrupt respiration. Due to smog, young children are at risk of oxygen deficiency. Oxygen deficiency results in toxic, partially oxidized substances remaining in the body. This starts to affect the function of the respiratory system, heart, liver, and kidneys. Consequently, children with oxygen deficiency exhibit symptoms such as blue lips, sunken chest, and/or shortness of breath. Children suffering from respiratory failure may faint, convulse, arch their backs, cry, and become restless even with a simple cold. Due to oxygen deficiency, colds and flu are becoming severe, leading to multiple organ dysfunction such as brain deficiency and others.

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Today's Stories

Politics

Economy

Diplomacy

Infrastructure

Society

Environment

Innovation

Health

Politics

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Diplomacy

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Environment

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Developing Climate Change News

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Innovation

E. Anar: Mongolia Becomes the 12th Asian Country to Implement "Apple Pay" Service

Trade and Development Bank Achieves PCI DSS Compliance for the 8th Year

U.Bayarzul: Building materials that substitute imported products can be produced using ash

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Health

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Electronic Cigarettes and the Decision of the Governor of Tuv Province: Legal, Health, and Business Disputes

B. Enkhtaivan: If Children's Cold or Flu Worsens, Swelling of the Brain Can Lead to the Risk of Respiratory and Heart Failure

VIDEO: "Young children are experiencing multiple organ failure due to complications from colds and flu"

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