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

Today's Stories

Politics

• Amendments to Some Laws to Implement Mega Projects
• Proposal to suspend licenses of gambling establishments that have not paid taxes
• Cabinet Regular Meeting to Start at 14:30 Today
• The Operations of Three Online Betting Companies Will Be Halted

Economy

• The Provisional Free Trade Agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union May Be Finalized in Moscow in May
• Draft Economic Partnership Agreement with South Korea
• N.Uchral: The Government has banned increasing fees, charges, and taxes in 21 provinces and the capital city by government decision
• Signed Agreement with the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development
• Finance Minister to Lead the Export Promotion Working Group
• N.Uchral: A Decision Has Been Made to Prohibit Increasing Fees and Taxes
• INEG and TRANSCON LLC Sign Memorandum of Understanding
• The Scope of the Development Bank to be Expanded to Meet EXIM Bank Requirements
• Layoffs in State-Owned Railway Companies
• B.Javkhlan: To achieve necessary budget revenue, a working group has been established, and I am leading it
• Government: Budget Plan Achieves 4.2 Trillion, Revenue Remains Normal
• Z. Narantuya: The Development Bank will now finance purely development projects
• Minimum Wage to Increase to 792,000 Tugriks from April 1
• Illegal Cigarette Trade Flourishing in Mongolia
• Darkhan Metallurgical Plant Allocates 39.6 Billion MNT to Chinggis Khaan National Wealth Fund
• Enhancing the Economy of the Khangai Region through Industry, Tourism, and Services
• 1.8 Tons of Gold Exported in First Two Months, Six Times More Than Last Year
• Economic Partnership: Will Koreans Get the Cream and We Get the Scraps?
• Z. Narantuya: The Development Bank Will Finance Development Projects in the Future
• 26,506 Passenger Cars Imported in the First Two Months of This Year
• Government Decides to Postpone the Increase in Heating Prices
• B. Javkhlan: The Drop in Coal Price is Not Welcome, but There's No Budget Shock

Diplomacy

• Mongolia to Strengthen Cooperation with South Korea in Rare Metals Supply Chain
• Received Credential Letters from the New Ambassador of Turkey to Mongolia
• Mongolia and Czech Republic Elevate Relations to Comprehensive Partnership

Infrastructure

• Ts.Tuvaan: The First Issue for the Spring Session is the Gashuunsukhait-Ganqimaod Port Agreement
• The Project to Increase the Capacity of Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod Port Will be Submitted to Parliament
• Ts. Tuvaan: The Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod Port Border Connection Agreement to be Submitted to Parliament
• The final assessment of the impact of Eg River Hydropower Plant will be issued in the first half of 2026
• Odon Tuya: The Government Approved the Funding for the Feasibility Study of the Auxiliary Dam of the Egiin Gol HPP

Society

• 29 Students Studying in the Czech Republic under 'Appointment-2100' Program
• The Mongolian Trade Union Will Organize a Demonstration
• State Establishment to Combat False Information May Lead to Dictatorship
• Assistance of 400 Million Tugriks Provided to Households Affected by Fire

Environment

• An Overview of the '100 Million Trees' Program of Oyu Tolgoi Company
• DARHAN-UUL: Implementing the Mongolian Inclusive Green Cities Project
• The Leather Processing Factories Will Relocate to Emeelt Within Two Years, Leading to the Decommissioning of the Khargia Wastewater Treatment Plant

Innovation

• Preparing for the Wave of Artificial Intelligence: AmCham Mongolia's March Discussion
• KHAN Bank to Support and Collaborate with Technology Startups through its Innovation Center
• Met with the World Bank Resident Representative on Updating Digital Signature Infrastructure

Health

• Eleventh Case of Measles Confirmed
• Learning Delays Likely to Deepen After the Pandemic

Sports

• The MongolZ to Play Against Major Champions Natus Vincere in ESL Pro League Quarterfinals

Arts

• International 'Genghis Khan' Exhibition Opens at the Czech National Museum
• Documentary Film "Deaf Nomads" Begins International Screenings
• Morin Khuur Orchestra Performs at the President's Palace in Czech Republic

Politics

Amendments to Some Laws to Implement Mega Projects

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Ulaanbaatar, MONTSAME. To reduce air pollution in Ulaanbaatar, support infrastructure development projects and activities, provide inter-sectoral coordination, and rapid management, a meeting was held by the operational headquarters under the Prime Minister. During the meeting, amendments to the law on procurement of goods, works, and services with state and local government property were discussed, along with other accompanying legislations and a draft procedure for granting incentive tariffs for gas fuel to households in the air quality improvement zone. The current legal environment is insufficient for implementing large projects and activities right from the tender selection stage, necessitating immediate changes to 22 provisions of 8 laws, including the State and Local Property Procurement Law and the Land Law. Specifically, a proposed amendment to the procurement law aims to refine the stages of contract selection for mega projects, reduce the costs of tender organization, save time, and improve procurement efficiency by purchasing goods, works, and services up to 1 billion MNT from an "E-store," reducing human involvement, and incorporating artificial intelligence. Furthermore, the definition of "design documents" appears differently across laws such as the Construction Law, the Railway Transport Law, and the Energy Law, while the Budget Law refers to "design documents," which hinders sectoral coordination. Therefore, it was proposed to amend article 4.1.30 of the Construction Law to clarify preliminary and detailed feasibility studies. The Prime Minister suggested unifying principles involving the Ministry of Finance, the capital, and relevant entities, integrating political party suggestions, and having the Ulaanbaatar Chamber of Commerce consult private sectors. He stated that it is appropriate to present mega projects significant to the country's economy to the Parliament and make them public. The Mayor of the capital city and Governor of Ulaanbaatar, Kh. Nyambaatar, presented the draft procedure to provide incentives on device costs and usage for electric heaters and gas-fueled appliances for households in designated zones to improve air quality. He mentioned establishing a "green zone" under a Capital City Council decision that provides incentive tariffs. The second air quality improvement zone in the capital encompasses 100,000 households in areas like Bayankhoshuu, Tolgoit, 7 Buudal, and Amgalan, with the initial plan to involve 30,000 households. This approach provides choices rather than enforcement, where eligible households can install devices and benefit from tariff discounts. Households are expected to reduce heat loss and discontinue the use of solid fuels. Households in the green zone will be gradually connected to all types of gas, electricity, and renewable energy sources. It is anticipated that the implementation of incentives will enhance energy conservation efforts, reducing pollution from ger districts from 55.6% to 20.8%. The Prime Minister tasked a working group, led by Cabinet Secretary N. Uchral, to present the proposed amendments to the procurement law at every government meeting. Moreover, a directive was issued to prepare detailed information on the impact, results, and introduction estimates of "blue coal" in reducing air pollution for the next operational headquarters meeting, informed the Government Press Office. Follow @montsame.mn

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Proposal to suspend licenses of gambling establishments that have not paid taxes

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: news.mn

The "Licensing Council" held an electronic meeting today. During the meeting, discussions were held on the issue of tax payments by businesses operating paid predictions and gambling activities. The Ministry of Justice and Internal Affairs issued special licenses for paid predictions and gambling activities to "Temp Partners" LLC in 2022, "En Zed Gi Em" LLC in 2023, and "Mon Ex Bay Ti Bileg" LLC in 2023. According to Article 6.5 of the Law on Special Excise Duty, a special excise duty equivalent to 36,250,000 (thirty-six million two hundred fifty thousand) tugriks per month is imposed on individuals and legal entities conducting paid predictions and gambling activities using electronic, internet, and mobile network services. Also, according to the Law on Corporate Income Tax, they are required to pay taxes. However, according to information provided by the Ministry of Finance and the tax authority, these companies with special licenses have not paid any taxes since obtaining their licenses. In other words, "Temp Partners", "En Zed Gi Em" LLC, and "Mon Ex Bay Ti Bileg" LLC have failed to contribute a total of 3.4 billion tugriks in taxes to the state budget over two years. This constitutes grounds for suspending their special licenses as stated in Article 6.1 of the Licensing Law. Therefore, the Head of the Cabinet Secretariat, N. Uchral, will propose to the Ministry of Justice and Internal Affairs the suspension of these companies' special licenses based on this reason.

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Cabinet Regular Meeting to Start at 14:30 Today

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: isee.mn

The government holds its regular meeting every Wednesday. Today's meeting is scheduled to start at 14:30. This is because Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene is meeting with ministers on several important issues before the cabinet meeting starts.

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The Operations of Three Online Betting Companies Will Be Halted

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn

"Temp Partners" LLC, "NZGM" LLC, and "Mon Ex Bay Ti Bileg" have been operating online betting games through platforms such as MELBET and MNBET under special licenses since 2022 and 2023. However, they have continued to operate without paying taxes and disregarding the law until today. Therefore, the Licensing Council has submitted a proposal to suspend the special licenses and halt the operations of these three companies to the Ministry of Justice and Home Affairs and the Communications Regulatory Commission. There is never a winner in online betting and gambling. Even if you think you've won, you end up losing everything in the end. The only ones who truly win are the owners behind the games. Therefore, illegal online betting businesses will be stopped! Companies that evade taxes and break the law will be held accountable! This system that preys on citizens' lives will be uprooted! declared the head of the Cabinet Secretariat, Uchral N.

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Economy

The Provisional Free Trade Agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union May Be Finalized in Moscow in May

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Mongolia continues negotiations to establish a provisional free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union. Although it was planned to conclude by the end of last year, it was postponed to consider the opinions of domestic producers. Journalists have asked Finance Minister B. Javkhlan about the current stage of negotiations. He stated, "The Ministry of Economic Development is leading the negotiations. The Ministry of Finance is actively giving its suggestions. It is expected to be finalized and signed in Moscow in May. The negotiations should be completed before that." Trade involves both import and export aspects. Domestic businesses are worried about the import side, which is understandable. In recent years, very expensive programs such as the 'White Gold' and 'Food Revolution' have been implemented. Hundreds of billions in subsidies have poured into this sector. Our manufacturers, who are just beginning to establish themselves and satisfy a certain portion of the domestic market, need protection. However, we must also consider exports. Especially livestock raw materials and agricultural exports are very important to us. There is talk of almost a billion dollars in exports. The greatest benefit of this agreement will be the ability to export without taxes. Negotiations are ongoing regarding the protection of manufacturers who can now maintain a certain share of the market. Discussions are continuing regarding eggs and other specific items. During today's cabinet meeting, Minister Lu. Gantumur reported that they have successfully removed self-produced raw materials from the list, although it is not yet finalized.

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Draft Economic Partnership Agreement with South Korea

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The draft of the agreement has been presented to private sector participants to gather their suggestions. An open discussion to ensure the involvement of business representatives in forming the "Economic Partnership Agreement" was organized at the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry. South Korea has established Economic Partnerships with 22 countries, including the USA, Canada, Singapore, and China. The partnership agreement being developed with South Korea consists of 14 chapters. This agreement does not include topics such as public services implemented by the government, government procurement, airline operations, maritime transport cabotage, government subsidies, favorable loans, the labor market, and permanent employment of individuals. In 2015, our country signed an Economic Partnership Agreement with Japan. The second agreement is being developed with South Korea, and working groups with about 150 members, including representatives from relevant ministries and agencies, are working under the leadership of the Ministry of Economy and Development. To inform businesses and the public about this agreement and to gather feedback from foreign trade and business representatives, three discussions were organized. South Korea has signed 22 free trade agreements with countries such as the USA, Canada, Singapore, and China. The economic partnership agreement that Mongolia is establishing with South Korea includes the following 14 chapters: - Trade in Goods (Trade Measures); - Trade in Services (Telecommunications, Financial Services, Temporary Entry of Business People); - Rules of Origin (Rules, Procedures); - Investment; - Customs Procedures and Trade Facilitation; - Government Procurement; - Technical Barriers to Trade; - Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures; - Economic Cooperation; - Intellectual Property Rights; - Competition; - Environment; - Electronic Commerce; - Legal and Institutional Issues. The Services chapter of this agreement is modeled after the GATS ("General Agreement on Trade in Services") of the World Trade Organization. Regarding obligations that may not comply with the existing laws and regulations or might involve future changes or policy shifts, the parties are agreeing on an appendix to the agreement.

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N.Uchral: The Government has banned increasing fees, charges, and taxes in 21 provinces and the capital city by government decision

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: isee.mn

The Head of the Cabinet Secretariat of the Government of Mongolia, N. Uchral, introduced the decision made at the government meeting. He stated, "Today's meeting listened to the report of the Minister of Finance of Mongolia regarding the economic situation. Due to the trade war caused by Trump's tariffs, measures were instructed to be taken by the relevant ministers at the direction of the Prime Minister. Mongolia is a unified state within the framework of governmental structure. Therefore, it has been decided by the government to prohibit the increase of any fees, charges, or taxes in the 21 provinces and the capital city. Consequently, a decision was made to stop all kinds of fee, charge, and tax increases by accompanying legislation to be submitted to the State Great Khural (parliament). The main export products of our country are coal and iron ore. However, due to the ongoing trade war caused by Trump's tariffs, the prices of export products are decreasing in the world market. At such a time, we will implement specific policies and directions to cut down on unnecessary projects, programs, and investment works on a temporary basis. Therefore, it was decided to make adjustments within the scope of the budget. Also, the Bank of Mongolia has made a decision to increase the policy rate. When making this announcement, the President of the Bank of Mongolia announced that the Energy Regulatory Commission's decision to increase the price of heating has been made. In connection with the economic situation, the government is giving instructions to delay the decision made by the Energy Regulatory Commission. In the future, we will take specific measures to increase export outlets, amend the stock exchange law, export products through ports, and increase outputs. The public should have no worries about any price or tax increases. The government has made a decision to prohibit decisions that increase prices and taxes."

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Signed Agreement with the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Mongolia signed the "Multilateral Competent Authority Agreement on Automatic Exchange of Financial Account Information" (CRS MCAA) and the "Multilateral Competent Authority Agreement on the Exchange of Country-by-Country Reports" (CbCR MCAA) at the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) headquarters in Paris, France, on March 6. This is an important step towards implementing international tax standards and establishing a fair tax system. The CRS MCAA aims to prevent tax evasion and increase tax transparency. By joining the agreement, Mongolia is now fully capable of exchanging information regarding bank accounts and financial assets with other countries. The CbCR MCAA requires multinational corporations to prepare tax reports in each country where they operate, allowing tax authorities to exchange reports. The purpose of this agreement is to ensure transparency in the operations of multinational groups worldwide and to prevent tax avoidance. The Government of Mongolia has been actively working for the past few years to introduce and implement innovative international tax principles. As a part of these efforts, Mongolia became a member of the Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes and the Inclusive Framework on BEPS in 2018. By signing these agreements, Mongolia is achieving significant progress in exchanging information for tax purposes within the framework of international tax standards, protecting its tax revenues, and strengthening a fair tax system, according to the General Department of Taxation.

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Finance Minister to Lead the Export Promotion Working Group

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Finance Minister B. Javhlan is presenting the decisions of the government meeting. He stated that as of the first two months of 2025, Mongolia's income and expenditures are normal. In the first two months of 2025, budget revenue performance is on target at 95%. Since it is only the first two months, there is no condition to make a budget amendment. However, the government will focus on increasing exports and the central bank's foreign currency reserves. According to the performance of the first two months of this year, the physical volume of main export raw materials is normal. According to yesterday's news, 11 million tons of coal have already been exported, while the state budget for 2025 planned for the export of 10 million tons. The central bank planned to export 300 kg of gold, while 1.8 tons of gold have already been exported. In addition, governors at all levels made a decision not to make decisions to increase prices and tariffs.

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N.Uchral: A Decision Has Been Made to Prohibit Increasing Fees and Taxes

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The decision made at the regular cabinet meeting is being presented. During this time, the decision to prohibit increasing fees and taxes was announced by N.Uchral, head of ZGHEG (Cabinet Secretariat of Government). He stated, "Measures will be taken to increase the entry and exit points for exporting the country's products. Citizens do not need to worry about prices, fees, and taxes being increased. I responsibly declare that the government has made decisions prohibiting increases in fees and taxes." In today's cabinet meeting: - The sixth meeting of the capital's rapid response headquarters - Meeting of the Mongolia-France intergovernmental working group - Cooperation on the cross-border railway at the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod port, coal trade, and increasing the capacity of the Tavantolgoi coal mine - Approval of the draft government resolution on the categorization and types of products to be traded on the exchange and the rules for domestic sale of mining products on the exchange - The revised draft of the Mongolian Development Bank Law and related legislative projects - Appointment of a special duty ambassador - Budgetary conditions - Current conditions of the "Egiin Gol Hydroelectric Power Station" project and some measures to be taken in the future In total, 19 issues were discussed. Warning: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) must cite their source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, fully or partially.

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INEG and TRANSCON LLC Sign Memorandum of Understanding

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Ulaanbaatar - INEG and TRANSCON LLC have signed a memorandum of understanding. The memorandum was signed in Prague by Director E. Torbayar, representing INEG, and General Director Vladimir Drabek, representing "Transcon Electronic Systems" LLC. The memorandum aims to expand and develop cooperation in the civil aviation and aviation infrastructure sectors, according to INEG. Additionally, the collaboration will focus on supporting the modernization of local airports and the supply of aviation equipment and technology within the civil aviation sector with this agency.

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The Scope of the Development Bank to be Expanded to Meet EXIM Bank Requirements

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Government has decided to submit to the Parliament the draft revision of the Law on the Development Bank of Mongolia and the legislative proposals developed in connection with this draft law, incorporating the suggestions made by members during the Government meeting. The legal status, objectives, principles, and operational directions of the Development Bank have been developed based on good practices from Development Banks in other countries. The scope of the activities and services of the Development Bank is proposed to be expanded in accordance with the requirements of the EXIM Bank.

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Layoffs in State-Owned Railway Companies

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: news.mn

Minister of Transport B. Delgersaikhan has announced that layoffs will begin next week at "Tavantolgoi Railway" LLC and "Mongolian Railway" JSC. He stated, "We will merge the state-owned railway companies. To improve productivity, we will combine these two companies, conduct a profitability analysis, and begin the process of laying off employees next week. A working group will be formed to carry out this task. Although it transports almost no cargo, 'Tavantolgoi Railway' LLC has 800 employees, while 'Mongolian Railway' JSC has over 600 employees. If these were private companies, they would not sustain such a large number of office-bound employees." It should be noted that "Mongolian Railway" JSC was established by a government decree in 2008, while "Tavantolgoi Railway" LLC was established in 2018. When the government announced its intention to merge uniformly functioning state-owned companies earlier this year, B. Dugershav was appointed as the CEO of "Tavantolgoi Railway" LLC by the company's Board of Directors, while B. Otgonsukh was appointed as the CEO of "Mongolian Railway" JSC. The question now arises whether these CEOs will remain in their positions after the merger of the two companies, or if new appointments will take place.

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B.Javkhlan: To achieve necessary budget revenue, a working group has been established, and I am leading it

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: isee.mn

The Minister of Finance, B. Javkhlan, introduced the decision from the regular government meeting. He said, "I presented brief information to the government about the budget performance for the first two months of 2025. As of the first two months, the budget revenue and expenditure are normal, and the performance is on track. Over the two months, the budget plan was fulfilled with a revenue of 4.2 trillion tugriks. Therefore, the budget revenue is at 95% performance. The prices of our main raw materials, especially coal, are decreasing. Discussions seem to be taking place regarding whether there will be a budget amendment related to this. Five main conditions cause a budget amendment. Among them, it is stipulated that if the budget deficit exceeds 3% due to a revenue shortfall or increased expenses, an amendment will be made. The 2025 budget was approved without a deficit. A 3% of GDP means a revenue shortfall amounting to 3 trillion tugriks, which has not occurred. Therefore, it is early to talk about a budget amendment. Instead, to reach the necessary level of budget revenue, a working group has been established, which I, as the Minister of Finance, am leading. I would like to emphasize that as of the first two months, the volume of our main export products is proceeding normally. We planned to export 10.5 million tons of coal within the first two months, but we have exported 11.5 million tons so far," he mentioned.

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Government: Budget Plan Achieves 4.2 Trillion, Revenue Remains Normal

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: news.mn

The decisions made at the regular Cabinet meeting were introduced. Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat N. Uchral announced: "The government approved the cost for developing the feasibility study for the auxiliary dam of the Eg River Hydroelectric Power Plant." Minister of Finance B. Javkhlan provided information regarding the budget execution for the first two months of 2025. The budget plan for February was achieved with 4.2 trillion, and revenue remains normal. Financing is stable. Compared to the same period last year, there was a slight decrease in indicators. This year, revenue is being strived for and is proceeding with 95% completion at its normal level. The coal price is dropping significantly, which is not a favorable indicator. For the first two months, there has been no shock impact on the budget. Article 34 of the Budget Law incorporates five conditions for making amendments. A working group was established to increase exports and foreign currency reserves in the short term. According to customs data, while 10.5 million tons of coal were planned for export, 11.5 million tons have already been exported. Regarding copper, 254 thousand tons were planned for export, but 281 thousand tons have been exported.

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Z. Narantuya: The Development Bank will now finance purely development projects

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn

During today's government meeting, the revised draft law on the Development Bank and the accompanying legislative proposals were discussed. Related information regarding this law was presented by the Executive Director of the Development Bank, Z. Narantuya. She stated, "The Development Bank has worked quite well on clearing its balance sheet environment, recovering bad loans, and normalizing receivables and payables. The government is supportive in creating a new legal environment by increasing the capital. The new law includes provisions for the Development Bank to focus more on services aimed at increasing exports, improving export earnings, and enhancing the competitiveness of businesses exporting goods and products in foreign markets. In the past three years, the bank's activities were focused solely on recovering loans, but now, with the law being passed, there will be opportunities to source funds from foreign markets and redirect them towards new projects and programs targeted at the development market. Considering the external and internal conditions of the market, only efforts to increase export revenues, save and grow foreign currency income, and enhance investments and financing towards the market will be made. Whereas previously it financed loans at the same level as commercial banks, the Development Bank is now transforming internally to fund purely development projects and to raise the necessary resources for them."

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Minimum Wage to Increase to 792,000 Tugriks from April 1

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The National Tripartite Committee on Labor and Social Partnership decided during its meeting to increase the minimum wage from 660,000 tugriks by 20%, making it 4,715 tugriks per hour or 792,000 tugriks per month. This resolution will be enforced starting April 1, 2025. When setting the minimum wage, the following factors are considered: - The minimum subsistence level of the population - The appropriate ratio of labor productivity to average wage - The minimum amount of full pension provided by the Social Insurance Fund - Economic growth and employment levels - Inflation The working group set up by the National Tripartite Committee on Labor and Social Partnership recognized the possibility of a 20% increase taking these factors into account.

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Illegal Cigarette Trade Flourishing in Mongolia

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: news.mn

Taxing electric cigarettes is very appropriate because if you want to poison yourself, you should pay the tax. That way, when the time comes that your health is at risk, the insurance fund will cover the costs of your treatment. This is harsh but true. In Mongolia, the Tobacco Control Law was first enacted in 2005 to reduce tobacco consumption and protect public health, with significant amendments introduced in 2012 and 2015. Although the law that prohibits indoor smoking has successfully been enforced and has become a habit among citizens, tobacco consumption levels have not decreased. Furthermore, the number of tobacco products imported into the country is steadily increasing, indicating insufficient implementation of the law and failure to reach its objectives. Mongolia ranks low worldwide in terms of the excise tax rate applied per cigarette pack, and there has not been any tax increase since it was first set, which violates the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. The World Health Organization has set the tobacco excise tax at 70% of the retail price, but in Mongolia, this tax is currently at 33%, which is one reason for the high tobacco consumption. Meanwhile, electric cigarettes are not regulated by law at the moment, and apart from customs and VAT, they are free from other types of taxes. Internationally, however, electric cigarettes are taxed at 75-80% lower rates than regular cigarettes. From international experiences in combating smoking, measures taken include increasing taxes to financially burden smokers and reduce consumption, banning indoor smoking, prohibiting advertisements, supporting substitute products, and reducing their harmfulness. For example, in Australia, which enforces strict policies, by 2020 the black market constituted 20%, and tax losses amounted to 2 billion dollars, while in Thailand, illegal trade reached 30% of the total market, creating a black market worth approximately 150 million dollars annually. In Mongolia, due to the stipulation that smoking cigarettes cannot be sold within 500 meters of general education schools, about 15 million dollars in taxes are lost annually, providing opportunities for illegal traders. It's time to amend this provision. In Mongolia, 27% of the total population smokes cigarettes, and annually over 4,300 people die from illnesses caused by smoking. Professionals say there is no such thing as "responsible use" for combustible cigarettes, as they emit 7,000 types of toxic substances due to high-temperature combustion. Furthermore, controls and prohibitions on consumption among minors are not being implemented anywhere, as shown by research. According to a report by the National Center for Public Health in 2023, 60% of the 3,311 surveyed students were exposed to passive smoking, and 12% smoked cigarettes, consuming 2-3 times a week.

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Darkhan Metallurgical Plant Allocates 39.6 Billion MNT to Chinggis Khaan National Wealth Fund

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Darkhan Metallurgical Plant LLC has fully achieved its business plan goals for 2024, selling a total of 1 million tons of iron ore concentrate and 25.9 thousand tons of steel rolled products, generating 291.7 billion MNT in revenue and achieving a net profit of 52 billion MNT after taxes. In the second half of 2024, the company increased sales by supporting open and transparent exchanges for mining products and successfully solved accumulated infrastructure and logistics challenges in product transportation. As a result, the company's profitability increased, and in December 2024, it allocated 13,614,960,514 MNT to the National Wealth Fund. Furthermore, according to the resolution No. 29 by the Board of Directors of "Erdenes Mongol" on February 19, 2025, 25,998,280,024 MNT were allocated to the Chinggis Khaan National Wealth Fund as dividends this month. Thus, Darkhan Metallurgical Plant LLC has enriched the Chinggis Khaan National Wealth Fund's assets by a total of 39.6 billion MNT. The company plans to reinforce last year's achievements, increase production capacity, support the implementation of the Mega Project to establish a steel processing plant, enhance product competitiveness, and pursue various development goals such as technical and technological upgrades.

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Enhancing the Economy of the Khangai Region through Industry, Tourism, and Services

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Speaker of the State Great Khural of Mongolia, D. Amarbayasgalan, along with members of the State Great Khural, Temuulen Gombosuren, Chair of the Standing Committee on Security and Foreign Policy, L. Enkhnasan, Chair of the Standing Committee on Social Policy, and members M. Mandkhai, P. Munkhtulga, and G. Khosbayar, visited Arkhangai Province. During this visit, a sports complex with a capacity of 1,000 seats, a prominent infrastructure development project in the province center, was inaugurated, and the delegates met with citizens and representatives of the community. At the beginning of the meeting, the Speaker emphasized that providing material infrastructure for the development of public physical education and sports, especially fostering physical and aesthetic education among the youth and supporting human development in diverse ways, is an integral part of state policy. Furthermore, the Speaker D. Amarbayasgalan introduced the legal reforms being implemented by the parliament to the residents of Arkhangai Province and provided information about some of the bills and legislative proposals that will be discussed in the spring session. He pointed out that this parliament, which includes representatives of five parties and coalitions, forms the basis for ensuring the principle of checks and balances, and that having 81 members elected for the first time is the foundation for initiating changes and reforms. He mentioned that this parliament, which leads Asia in terms of the proportion of female members, is implementing the "Three Perfections" policy to create a citizen-friendly, human-centered legal environment. The Speaker continued to note that the laws regulating social relations have outdated doctrines and are focused on regulating organizational operations rather than protecting citizens' rights. Therefore, there is a need to reform the system to be human-centered rather than state-centered. Essentially, creating a legal and regulatory environment that upholds human rights and meets contemporary requirements, with comprehensive regulation, is the core of the "Three Perfections" policy. In this regard, it was said that during the discussion stage of any bill, an assessment of human rights impacts will be conducted and the opinions of the public and users of the law will be incorporated until its final approval. Additionally, by organizing any regulations exceeding the law, maintaining a proper balance within the law, and avoiding any precedents for human rights violations, preconditions for such violations can be averted. The economic structure of Arkhangai Province consists of 57% agriculture, 26% services, and 17% industry. The Speaker explained, based on relevant statistics, that to increase GDP per capita in the Khangai region, it is essential to focus on boosting productivity in the manufacturing, tourism, and service sectors. Additionally, investments in education, health, and cultural sectors within the province have doubled in recent years, and this year, in order to enhance access to preschool education, kindergartens will be established in several soums. Citizens participating in the meeting highlighted that price inflation remains a pressing issue in the locality, noting that housing prices in Arkhangai Province are higher than the average, and expressed their gratitude for the inauguration of the long-awaited sports complex. They also requested further support for children and youth to consistently participate in regional and national sports competitions and for preparing the next generation of athletes. Suggestions were made to ensure accessible environments and conditions for people with disabilities, incorporate entrance and exit parts according to standards from the design phase in newly constructed buildings, and eliminate acts exceeding the law that lead to breaches of citizens' rights. Additionally, questions were raised and opinions shared concerning the implementation of industrial development projects for processing livestock raw materials in the region and the "New Cooperative" movement. In response, the Speaker and members provided information regarding provincial and local development, the implementation of legislation directed towards pastoralists, and certain measures to be implemented in the framework of regional development. The Media Center of the State Great Khural reported this information.

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1.8 Tons of Gold Exported in First Two Months, Six Times More Than Last Year

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The General Customs Administration (GCA) released the export data for the first two months of 2025 yesterday. During this period, our country exported goods and raw materials worth two billion USD, a decrease of 10.5% compared to the same period last year. Mineral products accounted for 1.7 billion USD or 86.2% of the total export value; pearls, precious and semi-precious stones, precious metals, jewelry, and coins accounted for 166.7 million USD or 8.3%; and plant-based products accounted for 28.6 million USD or 1.4%. These accounted for 95.9% of the total export value. This year, 1.8 tons of gold were exported in the first two months, which is six times the amount compared to the same period last year. The export of copper concentrates also increased by 10.8%. However, 10.2 million tons of coal were exported in the first two months of this year, which is 3.5% less than the same period last year. Additionally, exports of beef decreased by 37.7%, and combed cashmere decreased by 57.5%. Warning: Media organizations (television, radio, social media and websites) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, completely or partially.

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Economic Partnership: Will Koreans Get the Cream and We Get the Scraps?

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn

South Korea is one of our third neighbors. Considered a highly developed country in Asia, Mongolia has been working to establish an Economic Partnership Agreement with this country since 2023. Our side believes that this agreement will provide opportunities to reduce the trade deficit, attract investments from South Korea, and liberalize trade. The draft of the agreement is ready. However, it may change during the discussion process. A two-day discussion was held at the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI), where the Ministry of Economic Development and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs introduced the draft agreement in detail and answered questions from private sector representatives. During this time, G. Khongor, a board member of the Development Bank and an international arbitrator, expressed his position. - I am grateful that the Ministry of Economic Development is holding an open discussion. I am concerned that while establishing this agreement, Koreans might take the cream, leaving us with the scraps. The reason is that they block our private sector from entering many of their industries and, being resource-poor, have opened up their mining sector. There is a draft agreement that does not fit our situation. Koreans conduct international financial agreements and discussions at a high level. In making this agreement, we must not be limited by the current economic capabilities of Mongolia. Today, we may have limited financial capabilities, but tomorrow the situation will change. South Korea has closed its maritime transportation. While we are landlocked, there are companies that rent the Mongolian flag to conduct sea transport. Additionally, we transport goods from South Korea via sea. Our company transports a part of this. We have the rights under the UN Convention, but we cannot force them to rely solely on us for transportation. We need to be very careful when entering into this agreement. After the agreement is made, companies from the two countries will cooperate. It is clear that legal disputes will arise between them. Mongolia is a developing country, while South Korea is one of Asia's "tigers." The partnership must be mutually beneficial. However, this draft appears to be aggressive. In 2000, Koreans failed when they planned to build a power plant in Dalanzadgad. It was a messed-up project. It is right to speak up as things are. Twenty-five years ago, a company called "Samwan" encountered problems when building the Selenge-Darkhan road. The state must remember this. In the financial sector, the "Nomarang" company also failed. They used bank guarantees to commit financial fraud, leaving Mongolian banks and companies harmed. In the health sector, a $19 million fraud scandal erupted involving the World Bank. South Korea is a country that protects its interests at the highest level. As a result, it has achieved high development. However, if interests are not equally met, we see that trade wars can occur. Nonetheless, by entering into this agreement, we can learn from Korean management and business experience.

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Z. Narantuya: The Development Bank Will Finance Development Projects in the Future

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Development Bank Executive Director Z. Narantuya stated today, "In the past, the Development Bank has been issuing loans at levels similar to commercial banks. From now on, changes will be made to transform the bank into one that raises financing specifically for development projects and programs." For the past three years, the bank's activities have focused on debt collection. Therefore, efforts are underway to approve the draft revised version of the Development Bank's law and related legislative projects. In other words, the government discussed this law's draft at today's session and decided to present it to the State Great Khural (Parliament). In her information, Development Bank Executive Director Z. Narantuya mentioned, "The Development Bank cannot invest across all sectors; it will make precise and effective financing towards its target market."

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26,506 Passenger Cars Imported in the First Two Months of This Year

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn

According to data from the first two months of 2025, goods and raw materials worth a total of 1.7 billion USD were imported into our country. This is an increase of 115 million USD, or 7.2 percent, compared to the same period in 2024. Among the imported goods, 26,506 passenger cars arrived in the first two months of this year, showing an increase of 6.5 percent compared to the same period last year. Passenger cars account for 13.6 percent of the total imported goods, second only to petroleum products. In the first two months of 2024, 24,892 passenger cars were imported into our country. From this, it seems that even though adjustments were made to the registration of state license plates in Ulaanbaatar to reduce traffic congestion, it did not significantly affect imports. Regarding key food items, the import of eggs and wheat flour has increased 2.5 times compared to the same period last year. The import of rice has increased by 72.3 percent, while that of condensed and dry milk has increased by 50.3 percent. In contrast, the import of wheat has decreased by 97.2 percent. Warning Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social, and Websites) must cite our source (ikon.mn) when using our information, both in full and in part, in any form.

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Government Decides to Postpone the Increase in Heating Prices

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: isee.mn

Today, the decision made by the Government at its meeting was presented by the Minister of the Cabinet Secretariat N. Uchral. During this time, he responded to the question of when the heating price would increase. He said, "The Central Bank of Mongolia has made a decision to increase the policy interest rate. At the time of the announcement, the President of the Central Bank reported that based on this, the Energy Regulatory Commission's decision to increase the prices of heating and electricity from the coming July and August was made. In this context, related to the economic situation, the Government is giving tasks to postpone the implementation of the decision made by the Energy Regulatory Commission."

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B. Javkhlan: The Drop in Coal Price is Not Welcome, but There's No Budget Shock

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn

During today's government meeting, the Ministry of Finance presented the budget performance for the first two months of 2025. The Ministry emphasized that the budget revenues and expenditures of Mongolia are stable as of the first two months of this year. Minister of Finance B. Javkhlan stated, "The execution of the state budget plan for February was fulfilled with a revenue of 4.2 trillion tugriks, which is 95% of the planned amount. The revenues are stable, and the planned current expenditures, financing, and capital expenditures are receiving their regular funding. Compared to the same period last year, there was a slight decrease due to the profitable outcome of the 2023 budget, where revenues entering at the end of the year were accounted for in January 2024. This resulted in significantly high budget revenues in the first month of 2024. For this year, the budget revenue is entering at its expected potential level. The drop in the price of our main raw material, especially coal, is not a positive thing. However, the budget did not experience a shock as a result of the first two months' performance. Questions about whether budget amendments will be necessary are arising. However, according to Article 34.1.2 of the Budget Law, a condition for budget amendments would arise if unforeseen circumstances cause a decrease in budget revenue, an increase in expenditures, and a situation where the consolidated budget deficit increases by three percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Our country's GDP is 95 trillion tugriks. Three percent of this would be approximately three trillion tugriks. However, the revenue has not fallen short by three trillion. Therefore, it is too early to talk about amendments when it is only March. Instead, we will work on increasing exports and bringing budget revenues to the planned level. Today, a working group was established to increase exports in the short term, stabilize and boost the central bank's foreign currency reserves. This working group will be headed by myself, the Minister of Finance." "If we can take advantage of the favorable gold price period, it is possible to accumulate reserves of 700 million USD." He also highlighted the physical volume of exports in the first two months, saying, "The physical volume of exports is normal. We had planned to export 10.5 million tons of coal but have already exported 11.5 million tons. This exceeds the planned volume. We planned to export 254 thousand tons of copper concentrate but have exported 281 thousand tons. The gold market price is very favorable. We estimated it at 1,850 USD, but it is now reaching almost 3,000 USD. The central bank is leveraging this window period effectively. We had planned to export 300 kg of gold and have exported 1.8 tons so far." The Minister noted that there is significant potential in our country regarding gold reserves. This year, they plan to add 18 tons of gold to the central bank's reserves. Previously, the maximum was 22 tons of gold. This year, if we can accumulate 20 tons, two tons more than planned, and take advantage of the favorable gold price, we can fully accumulate additional reserves worth over 700 million USD. The government issued a resolution warning against making any decisions to increase prices or tariffs at any level of government as international trade tariffs change daily, potentially impacting the domestic economy through several channels. This is also related to the ongoing negotiations with the Eurasian Economic Union.

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Diplomacy

Mongolia to Strengthen Cooperation with South Korea in Rare Metals Supply Chain

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: itoim.mn

South Korea has decided to strengthen cooperation with Mongolia in the supply chain of rare metals and other strategically important minerals, as reported by Korea's Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy. The two parties held the second meeting of the Rare Metals Cooperation Committee in Seoul. According to the ministry, this meeting is a continuation of the rare metals supply chain cooperation agreement established between the Prime Ministers of the two countries in 2023. Significance of Cooperation - Mongolia has the opportunity to develop its mineral resources. - South Korea will ensure the stability of its supply chain. - Mongolia is rich in rare metals, including strategically important minerals like rare earth elements. It is also the world's eighth-largest producer of molybdenum, which is a crucial metal for steel alloy production. Future Plans By November 2025, the two countries aim to fully install the necessary equipment and infrastructure to establish a joint rare metals research center. The geology institutes of both South Korea and Mongolia plan to start a project to explore important minerals in Mongolia. Agreements have been made to initiate the establishment of a tin mine in the Central Asian region. This cooperation is seen as significantly important for ensuring a stable raw materials supply to South Korea's industrial sector, as well as for the development of Mongolia's mining industry.

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Received Credential Letters from the New Ambassador of Turkey to Mongolia

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Secretary of State of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs L. Munkhtushig received and exchanged copies of the Credential Letters with Mr. Basak Genc Yuksel, the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Turkey to Mongolia. Secretary of State L. Munkhtushig congratulated and wished success to Ambassador Basak Genc Yuksel, who is appointed during a historically significant period when the relations between Mongolia and Turkey have advanced to a Strategic Partnership. During the meeting, they discussed enhancing the relationship and cooperation further by aligning it with the long-term development policies of the two countries, expanding economic content, and increasing trade and investment under common goals. Discussions were also held regarding traditional cooperation within the United Nations and other international organizations. Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

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Mongolia and Czech Republic Elevate Relations to Comprehensive Partnership

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

President U. Khurelsukh is conducting a state visit to the Czech Republic at the invitation of President Petr Pavel. This visit marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, and it is the first visit of a Mongolian head of state to the Czech Republic in 10 years. President U. Khurelsukh was officially received by President Petr Pavel at Prague Castle, where he left a commemorative inscription in traditional Mongolian script in the guestbook. During the state visit, the presidents held official talks and participated in a signing ceremony for documents on relations and cooperation. The foreign ministers of Mongolia and the Czech Republic, B. Battsetseg and Jan Lipavsky, signed a joint declaration on a Comprehensive Partnership between Mongolia and the Czech Republic. Additionally, a cooperation agreement on police collaboration between Mongolia and the Czech Republic was signed by the Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs of Mongolia, O. Altangerel, and the Czech Deputy Minister of the Interior, Lukas Hendryruch. This agreement sets the groundwork for swift communication and cooperation between the law enforcement agencies of both countries to prevent and detect organized crime and ensure public safety. The two sides will exchange expertise in criminology, investigation methods, and conduct joint training and seminars. Furthermore, an agreement on cooperation in the education sector was signed by the Mongolian Minister of Education, P. Naranbayar, and Czech Minister of Education, Youth, and Sport, Jaroslav Miller. The agreement will increase opportunities for Mongolian students to study at Czech state universities and facilitate exchanges of students, teachers, and researchers for short-term training. A memorandum of understanding for cooperation in agriculture was signed by Mongolian Minister of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry, J. Enkhbayar, and Czech Minister of Agriculture, Marek Vyborni. The memorandum aims to extend economic cooperation between the two countries, ensure food security, and cover the exchange of agricultural machinery, technology, and livestock products. Additionally, opportunities to export Mongolian raw materials and products from traditional pastoral livestock to the European market will be explored. Moreover, a memorandum of understanding was established between the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and the Prague Zoo to protect Bactrian camels and maintain their ecosystem. The Czech Republic has valuable experience from its successful Przewalski's horse breeding program. The National Sports Agency of Mongolia and the Czech Republic also signed a memorandum to promote cooperation in sports facility management and related organizations. During a meeting with media representatives, President U. Khurelsukh emphasized that this visit, marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations, opens a new chapter of friendly relations and cooperation between the two countries. Over the years, Mongolia and the Czech Republic have collaborated in sectors such as politics, economy, geology, industry, construction, labor, social protection, health, environment, education, history, and culture. Discussions have been held to explore potential mutual projects and investments for further development, such as infrastructure and public transport in Kharkhorum and New Zuunmod cities. Both countries also signed agreements on cooperation in education, environmental protection, agriculture, and sports. President Peter Pavel highlighted the long-standing friendly relations over the past 75 years, expressing confidence in the possibilities for enhanced cooperation in the future. Areas such as mining, energy, food, agriculture, light industry, and education were identified as potential collaborative fields. The Czech Republic also values the contributions of Mongolian citizens working in the country, who are known for their hard work and good reputation. The state visit included a meeting with the Senate President of the Czech Republic, Milos Vystrcil, where common values like democracy and human rights were emphasized as the foundation for parliamentary cooperation. President U. Khurelsukh also met with Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala, expressing gratitude for the warm welcome during the visit. As a context note, the Czech Republic has a population of over 10 million people and operates under a parliamentary system. President Petr Pavel, elected in January 2023 for a five-year term, is now fully exercising his powers. The country's GDP is 343 billion USD, with a per capita GDP of approximately 57,000 USD. Services, industrial sectors, and agriculture are key components of the Czech economy. The Czech Republic joined NATO in 1999 and the European Union in 2004.

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Infrastructure

Ts.Tuvaan: The First Issue for the Spring Session is the Gashuunsukhait-Ganqimaod Port Agreement

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Gogo team is working to deliver information directly. They are presenting the decision of the Government. Minister of Mining Ts. Tuvaan: The issue that has been in the public attention for a considerable amount of time, the intergovernmental agreement on the border connection at Gashuunsukhait-Ganqimaod port, has been decided to be submitted for approval to the State Great Khural (Parliament) at today's meeting. This decision will bring both immediate and indirect positive results. At a time when coal prices are falling and the risk of coal revenue falling short in the state budget has emerged, this decision is important. With the agreement made between companies, an additional 5 million tons can be sold. The issue of border connection with the railway doesn't affect only this port but also includes the Hangmandal, Shiveekhuren, and the east-west corridor to be built between the three countries, bringing many positive outcomes it entails. It also creates the opportunity to start the next big project that had stalled with our southern neighbor. The first topic for the spring session of the State Great Khural will be the approval of the agreement. We are at the starting point of continuing our subsequent major projects and programs. Since 2022, Mongolia has been trading coal through the exchange. This reaches the receiving organization on average 3-4 months later. As of today, 12.4 million tons of coal have been exported since the beginning of the year. The coal price has decreased due to uncontrollable and unforeseen factors related to global trade issues caused by the tariff decision of the US President Trump, which presented difficulties. However, today's meeting concluded that it was not at the stage that requires a budget amendment.

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The Project to Increase the Capacity of Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod Port Will be Submitted to Parliament

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: news.mn

The regular meeting of the government was held, and the following issues were discussed and decided. N. Uchral: No increase in service fees and charges In today's government meeting, due to the worsening international geopolitical situation and international trade conditions, and in order to prevent price increases and limit inflation growth, it was ordered that the government should not increase any type of service fees and charges provided to citizens and legal entities. The ministers, heads of government agencies, and heads of all types of councils, committees, and commissions were instructed to not increase these fees. Additionally, all levels of Citizens' Representative Meetings of aimags, the capital, soums, and districts were advised not to increase the percentages of taxes and fees determined by them. Minister of Finance B. Jargalan: Macro economy is stable Minister of Finance B. Jargalan presented the unified budget and performance of the state budget to the government meeting. In connection with this, an assessment mission was established by the Prime Minister's order to increase export of mineral products, monitor, and promptly resolve urgent issues to ensure stable macroeconomic growth. The working group will be headed by the Minister of Finance. "The macro economy is stable. In 2024, the economy grew by 4.9%, and GDP reached 80 trillion MNT. In January 2025, inflation reached 9.6%. The foreign currency reserves are stable. The physical amount of exports of major raw materials is increasing," said Minister of Finance B. Jargalan. In the first two months, the unified budget revenues reached 4.1 trillion MNT, decreasing by 1.2 trillion MNT or 22.8% compared to the same period last year, and achieving 95% of the planned target for the first two months. The budget revenue for the first two months accounts for 11% of the total budget. On average, in previous years, 12-14% of the total income was collected in the same period. The average coal price for the first two months fell to 78.5 USD per tonne from 123.4 USD in the same period last year, a decrease of 44.9 USD or 36%, which significantly impacted the reduction in budget revenues. Gov't to submit legislation to increase capacity of Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod Port It was decided to submit to the State Great Khural (Parliament) the draft law on ratifying the intergovernmental agreement between the Government of Mongolia and the People's Republic of China to increase the capacity of the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod port, concerning the cross-border railway, coal trade, and the capacity of the Tavantolgoi coal mine. The "Government Action Program of Mongolia for 2024-2028" includes the implementation of 14 mega projects within its main four policy directions, with the first being "Build the cross-border railway connections and freight transfer terminals at Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod, Khangi-Mandal, and Shivee Khuren-Sekhe border ports." The "Agreement on Cooperation between the Government of Mongolia and the Government of the People's Republic of China to increase the capacity of the cross-border railway, coal trade, and Tavantolgoi coal mine at Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod Port" was established on February 14, 2025. The ratification of this agreement will allow for the development of transparent and responsible mining, ensuring economic balance in the short and medium term, increasing coal extraction capacities in the medium and long term to boost budget revenues and currency reserves, fully utilizing the Tavantolgoi coal deposit group, reducing transportation costs by building the cross-border railway at Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod, and enabling environmentally friendly transportation of mining products. Initiating the construction of the cross-border railway at Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod will also create conditions for the construction of railways at the Khangi-Mandal, Shivee Khuren-Sekhe, and Bichigt-Zuun Khatavch ports. Gov't approves funds for Eg River Hydropower Station auxiliary dam feasibility The government meeting decided to organize and finance the comprehensive environmental impact assessment for Lake Baikal, UNESCO’s World Heritage Site, and the project's Environmental and Social Impact Assessment for the auxiliary dam's feasibility. The issue of implementing the Eg River Hydropower Station project has been discussed since 1964, with successive governments taking various measures without reaching full agreement with the Russian side until today. Since the establishment of the coalition government, phased efforts are underway to advance the long-delayed Eg River HPS project. At the 46th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, Mongolia was praised for its plans to implement the Eg River Hydropower Station project, conducting environmental and social impact assessments according to international standards and World Heritage impact guidelines, providing a foundation for the project's future success. The Minister of Environment and Climate Change of Mongolia and the Minister of Natural Resources and Ecology of the Russian Federation signed a memorandum on cooperation in protecting Lake Baikal and the Selenga River. They also agreed on a work plan under this memorandum. The work plan aims to make a final assessment of the impacts of the Eg River HPS by the first half of 2026. Development Bank's range of services to be expanded to meet EXIM Bank requirements The government meeting discussed the revised draft law on the Development Bank of Mongolia and associated legislative projects. The Cabinet decided to incorporate members’ suggestions and submit them to the State Great Khural. The legal status, objectives, principles, and operational direction of the Development Bank were developed based on good practices from other countries' Development Banks. It is planned to expand the range of services to meet the requirements of EXIM Bank.

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Ts. Tuvaan: The Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod Port Border Connection Agreement to be Submitted to Parliament

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: montsame.mn

During a presentation of the decisions from today's government meeting, Minister of Industry and Mining, Ts. Tuvaan, announced, "It has been decided to submit to Parliament the intergovernmental agreement between our country and China regarding the border connection at the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod port for ratification." He further stated that "this decision will bring positive results to our country's economy both directly and indirectly. After Parliament ratifies the agreement, contracts between companies can be established. Under these contracts, sales opportunities for 5 million tons of coal will be created." Additionally, the issue of railway connections at the border will bring about many positive outcomes not only at the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod port but also at the Khangi-Mandal, Shiveekhuree, Sekhee, Bichigt-Zuun Khatavch, as well as the western and eastern corridors connecting three countries. Furthermore, opportunities to activate large-scale projects that had been stalled with our southern neighbor have now been opened up. Soon, the Parliament's spring session will commence, and the first matter on its agenda will be this agreement," he said.

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The final assessment of the impact of Eg River Hydropower Plant will be issued in the first half of 2026

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Today, the regular meeting of the Government took place, and some decisions were presented by the ministers. The Minister of Environment and Climate Change, S. Odontuya, announced the following: - A joint working group for the Eg River Hydropower Plant has been established, and the research work of a team of 7 members from the Mongolian side is successfully continuing. In today’s Government meeting, four research tasks to be performed by the Mongolian side were introduced. Initially, funding was allocated to develop the feasibility study of the auxiliary dam. We are proceeding with our work according to the plan, and we plan to issue the final assessment of the impact of the Eg River Hydropower Plant in the first half of 2026. The establishment of the Eg River Hydropower Plant will be a significant and important contribution to Mongolia's energy sector.

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Odon Tuya: The Government Approved the Funding for the Feasibility Study of the Auxiliary Dam of the Egiin Gol HPP

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Government has decided during today's meeting to expedite the organization of a comprehensive environmental impact assessment on the ecological effects on Lake Baikal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and to finance the project, including the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment for the project and the preparation of the Technical and Economic Feasibility Study (TEFS) for the auxiliary dam of the Egiin Gol Hydroelectric Power Plant (HPP). On this subject, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, S. Odontuya, stated: "The Egiin Gol HPP project has been discussed since 1964, but it has been stalled for many years due to a lack of understanding between the Russian side and the UNESCO World Heritage Committee. Last year, I signed a memorandum of understanding with the Russian Minister of Nature and Ecology to establish a joint working group on the Egiin Gol HPP. As part of this, a team of seven Mongolian experts is working, and the research work is progressing successfully. At today's government meeting, we supported and approved the funding for four research projects that need to be carried out from the Mongolian side, including the preparation of the TEFS for the auxiliary dam of the Egiin Gol HPP. We have also instructed the relevant ministers to complete this work promptly. We are progressing with our tasks according to our work plan. According to this plan, we aim to deliver the final assessment of the impact study of the Egiin Gol HPP by the first half of 2026. Once this final conclusion is reached and the plant is constructed, it will make a significant contribution to the energy issues of Mongolia,” she mentioned. Warning: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) must cite the source (ikon.mn) if using our information in any form, in whole or in part.

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Society

29 Students Studying in the Czech Republic under 'Appointment-2100' Program

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: montsame.mn

President U. Khurelsukh of Mongolia's state visit to the Czech Republic is ongoing. The President met with students participating in the 'Appointment-2100' scholarship program who are currently studying at universities and colleges in the Czech Republic. Eight out of the 29 students are studying building engineering and computer science at the Technical University in Prague, while 21 are attending Czech language preparation courses at the Language and Professional Training Center in Podebrady, Charles University. From the coming autumn, these students will study their chosen majors such as nuclear engineering, computer science, food quality and safety, and statistics at universities. Four students who have been studying in Germany for more than a year under the 'Appointment-2100' program also attended today's meeting. Their school administration reported that they are excelling in their studies. The President expressed his wish for the students to uphold the trust and hope of their people, to diligently pursue their studies, and to contribute to the development and progress of their homeland. He further expressed confidence that these students will become future leaders of their country. During the state visit, it was agreed, as per the agreement signed between the ministries of the two countries, to increase the opportunities for students qualifying under 'Appointment-2100' to study at state-owned universities and colleges in the Czech Republic. Additionally, there will be annual summer courses in linguistics and literature aimed at mutual participation of students, teachers, and researchers in short-term trainings to learn from each other's language and culture and to deepen knowledge. In the 2023-2024 academic year, over 120 students from our country studied at Czech universities and colleges. The National University of Mongolia has been training Czechologists and international relations specialists since 1992. In 2006-2007, the Czech Studies Center was reestablished under a project by the Czech Development Agency, providing books, textbooks, manuals, and improving instructional materials, and bringing in expert teachers. Since 2023, a Czech language teacher has been working in the Slavic Studies Department. Since 1955, over 20,000 Mongolian citizens have studied in Czechoslovakia, with more than 300 obtaining higher education and approximately 30 earning academic degrees. Until 1989, the country annually accepted and trained 40 students, trainees, technical school attendees, and postgraduates.

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The Mongolian Trade Union Will Organize a Demonstration

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The Mongolian Trade Union Federation has decided to organize a demonstration next Friday, March 14. Specifically, a peaceful demonstration will take place under the slogan "Let's join the 190th Convention on Violence and Harassment in the World of Work" from the International Labor Organization. More than 300 people are expected to participate in the demonstration, including members of trade union organizations. The Mongolian Trade Union Federation (MTUF) has a history that dates back to 1917, when Russian and Mongolian workers at the current Selenge aimag's Eruu gold mine fought to protect their labor rights. The MTUF, now in its 108th year of operation, has approximately 450,000 members and supporters and operates through 22 sectoral unions and 14 professional and industrial associations. The federation also manages various establishments such as the Songino Resort and Sanatorium, the Higher School of Labor and Social Relations, the MTUSTO, and the Alpha Hotel. Additionally, it provides free consultations and legal assistance to citizens on labor dispute issues.

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State Establishment to Combat False Information May Lead to Dictatorship

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communication Ts. Baatarkhuu announced that a Center to Combat False Information would be established. He specifically stated, "The biggest global risk by 2030 is cyber security and false information. Therefore, Mongolia will officially establish a Center for Combating False Information. In other words, in the context of cyber security, we are doing something completely new by establishing this center. Society becomes divided, and national unity is disrupted due to false information, leading to conflicts. Therefore, the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communication will operate an official center to scientifically verify the truthfulness and confirmation of information." Immediately after this announcement, many people expressed their opinions, opposing it as an attempt to suppress the freedom of speech and expression of citizens, which is an effort to establish dictatorship by having the state control information. Following this, various celebrations like the Lunar New Year and International Women’s Day occurred, and it seems citizens have forgotten the government's attempt to impose control and establish dictatorship. Let's remind ourselves again. In order to keep the people quiet like sheep and fleece them, the government has attempted several times to encroach upon the freedom of speech and expression guaranteed by the Constitution. For example, in 2020, they attempted to establish a specialized unit to combat false information under the General Police Department and managed to do so despite opposition from human rights organizations, who argued that we combat theft by law, not false information. Furthermore, in 2022, minister and head of the Cabinet Secretariat N. Uchral submitted a draft law to the Parliament, titled "Ensuring Human Rights on Social Media," which was passed within two days in violation of the law but was not implemented due to a veto by the President. Now, a month ago, the government announced the establishment of the Center for Combating False Information as part of this law. The center aims to cast doubt on anyone who raises issues, questions, or whistleblows based on speculation or lack of factual evidence, labeling them as liars. It seems that establishing this center is an easy way to tag inconvenient information as 'false,' thus manipulating citizens' minds easily. Disclosures of corruption and conflict of interest, as well as criticism of the government or politicians, might also pass through a filter. Government agencies operate under their leader's directive, so will their 'false' conclusions be transferred to judicial or police authorities? Lawyers argue that this will create a double standard. It remains unclear on what basis the Center for Combating False Information will be established. Our country has laws against defamation and insult, with around 900 laws and over 2000 regulations. Why is the government trying to interfere in a matter already regulated by law? Can only the state determine truth from falsehood, and how will it prove the truth? Instead of establishing such centers, shouldn't the government ensure the openness of information, legally protect press freedom, and educate citizens to combat false information themselves? All state agencies have operated their own press offices, sections, and departments, disseminating information according to their preferences for a long time. Obtaining information from leaders, ministers, and officials has become an unattainable task for journalists. In 2024, Mongolia slipped to 109th in press freedom indices, dropping by 21 places. Its democracy index also fell four places, ranking 81st. As democracy and press freedom continue to shrink, establishing a Center for Combating False Information would impose dictatorship, as stated by legal scholars and researchers. Let's hear answers from some specialists working in this field. Position The Biggest Spreaders of False Information are Politicians and the Government B. Purevsuren (lawyer from "Global International Center" NGO) - The Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communication announced the establishment of the Center for Combating False Information. Is it feasible? - The Law on Freedom of the Press states, "...The state shall not impose control over the content of public information," and "The state shall not establish an agency to monitor the information published or broadcast by media outlets." These provisions contradict the establishment of the Center for Combating False Information by the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communication. The legal solution not to fund such a unit by the state is this. On the other hand, the largest spreaders of false information are politicians and the government themselves. Media outlets have an ethical obligation to disseminate truthful and accurate information. If they violate ethical issues, the Press Council imposes responsibility through soft regulatory measures. However, individuals lack the same opportunity to disseminate information as reliably and accurately as media outlets due to differences in journalistic methods and genres. But the unit to combat false information is disregarding the expression rights of Mongolia's 3.4 million citizens and threatening responsibility for merely speculating or raising issues. Today, I should not be pressured to face responsibility tomorrow just because I wrote something today. To protect our expression rights, the UN General Assembly passed a resolution in 2013 on "The Right to Privacy in the Digital Age," calling on countries to "protect and respect the privacy of any person expressing themselves freely on the Internet, to put a stop to violations of this right, and to create conditions to prevent such violations by aligning domestic legislation with international human rights treaties." This is recognized as an international standard specifically securing the right and freedom to express oneself online. - A large amount of information, where truth and falsehood are indiscernible, is circulated in social networks. What legal methods are available to 'restrict' this? Also, how do countries combat false information? - Singapore passed a special law on fake news in 2019. However, international experts state such laws often do not meet social needs. The most effective approach is to take measures based on technological resources. For instance, major social network companies have policies allowing them to remove false information. At the policy level, improving media literacy, obtaining information from reliable sources, and supporting fact-checkers could be mentioned. Using Public Officials as a Shield and Undermining Professional Journalism E. Batsetzseg (Editor-in-Chief of the Mongolian Fact-Checking Center) - What is your stance on establishing the Center for Combating False Information? - False information is categorized into three: Misinformation, where the person spreading it believes it to be true; Disinformation; and Malinformation, which are both deliberately created and spread for specific purposes. Fighting such activity is the right approach. However, independent, professional newsrooms and fact-checking organizations, not government agencies, should identify causes and consequences for the public, investigate, and reduce false information. Two years ago, the draft law "On Ensuring Human Rights on Social Media" was passed within two days in violation of laws, but it was anticipated by domestic and international organizations advocating for press freedom. They vetoed and abolished it. The fourth chapter of that law stated that government agencies could establish a unit to combat false information within their scope, monitor and inspect what citizens post online within 72 hours, and subsequently hold criminal liability by transferring cases to legal bodies. Mainly, citizens' control, expression of opinions, whistleblowing government wrongdoing, and narrowing space for exposing corruption has been gradually pushed this way. The Center for Combating False Information is said to work with scientists and researchers from the Mongolian Academy of Sciences. Journalists and fact-checkers consider them recognized individuals who provide clarifications. However, they can only comment on their specialized subjects, not trace who spreads false information, what the purpose is, or how it was altered, like fact-checkers. Creating a Center for Combating False Information by the state has failed in many countries. There are examples where state-run fact-checking bodies have been established but often criticized as poor practices. International studies indicate that state-run fact-checking centers have been used poorly. The "Lupa" organization, like ours an IFCN member, studied 168 fact checks conducted by the Brazilian government's program over seven months. They found that 38% relied only on government-provided information, and 14% were labeled false without open sources, making 52% or more than half insufficient for source requirement, thus invalidating them as fact checks. Out of 506 sources linked, 70.2% were government sources, effectively operating like a government press office. The fact-checkers even labeled information criticizing officials as "aimed at defaming officials." In a country like ours, where organizations label information as false on a whim, state oversight on information creates a bias. Deeming even personal opinions as 'false information,' checking, and interrogating pages critical of government failures and corruption is a slippery slope into oppression and persecution. It wouldn't be state-run fact-checking without bias. Officials are shielded, and professional journalism is undermined. Our Center works to provide accurate information based on reliable sources. - Which sources does the Fact-Checking Center base its information on? - We follow IFCN's ethical principles. Fact-checkers must be non-partisan, and unlike journalists, they disclose their sources in full as much as possible, and reliable and verifiable sources are detailed. In the chaotic flow of information online, manipulative noise overshadows professional journalism, relying on algorithms, focus on people's emotions and anger, and explain causes and predictions. Unfortunately, organized information manipulation by politicians, parties, and businesses continues. This includes external influences as well. Over five years, we conducted over 1,300 fact checks, most commonly on health, followed by political and social issues. Fraudulent scams also rise around times when citizens receive money, like child money and dividend distribution. Recently, AI-created false information poses a new challenge. IFCN supports member organizations in fact-checkers enhancing their capabilities and skills, tackling misinformation, and acquiring new competencies like AI handling. Since 2021, we have renewed membership twice, working with technology tools that are reserved for our fact-checkers, tapping into open data, and advancing skills and expertise in the latest AI technology.

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Assistance of 400 Million Tugriks Provided to Households Affected by Fire

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: news.mn

The Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia, head of the National Emergency Management Agency, S. Amarsaikhan, has dispatched a task force to Bayan-Ovoo sum in Khentii aimag, where a fire occurred. The fire in Sumbur bag of Bayan-Ovoo sum resulted in the burning of a total of 30,800 hectares of land. Preliminary reports indicate that five families have lost seven yurts, five sheds, four fences, and one household has lost over 300 head of livestock. Subsequently, the task force has delivered aid valued at over 400 million tugriks to households affected by the fire. This aid includes fully furnished yurts, warm clothing, supplies, food, and medical packages. Furthermore, the fires in Dadal, Batshireet, and Bayan-Ovoo sums of Khentii aimag have been completely extinguished in collaboration with emergency service personnel and local residents. Relevant authorities have stated that there are currently no active fire hotspots. Professional organizations are currently assessing the extent of the damage to properties, households, and the total loss caused by the fire. Additionally, specialists from the National Emergency Management Agency, Ministry of Health, and Animal Health Agency have provided advice and support to the households affected by the fire.

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Environment

An Overview of the '100 Million Trees' Program of Oyu Tolgoi Company

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The "Oyu Tolgoi" company has reaffirmed its commitment to support the "Billion Trees" national campaign initiated by the President of Mongolia by pledging to plant and grow 100 million trees. As part of this initiative, the company is setting a positive example in the mining sector by modernizing and increasing the number of equipment and tools at nurseries, contributing to sustainable development and environmental restoration, while also implementing real activities within the scope of social responsibility. Specialists in the nursery industry gathered to discuss the measures being implemented under the "100 Million Trees" program, as well as the practical use and impact of the selected equipment and tools for reforestation. Phil Abraham, General Manager of Health, Safety, Environment, and Community for "Oyu Tolgoi" company, stated that since pledging to plant and grow 100 million trees in 2021, the company has collaborated with the Forestry Agency and reforestation experts to develop a plan that ensures the impacts continue beyond the program's conclusion. The "100 Million Trees" program is divided into two parts: planting and growing 60 million trees for reforestation and investing the equivalent of planting and growing an additional 40 million trees to enhance forest sector capacity and develop infrastructure. Over the past period, "Oyu Tolgoi" company, in collaboration with the Forestry Agency, industry experts, and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, has completed work equivalent to 20.5 million trees. The head of the Forestry Agency, B. Oyunsanaa, noted that the equipment used in the nursery sector was outdated and insufficient in quantity, making modern, productive, accessible, and suitable equipment for Mongolian conditions necessary. After testing the equipment for one year at the newly established five nurseries, there is confidence in achieving practical solutions based on results. Furthermore, there is a plan to form a skilled workforce, which will elevate the nursery sector to a higher level. For the past three years, preparation stages were underway, and now the implementation stage is being intensified, entering a critical phase for nursery producers. Sustainable Development General Consultant B. Uuganbayar expressed that there was a significant need for industry professionals and program implementers to gather in one place and exchange ideas. Therefore, they are pleased to create an open platform to discuss and unify understanding of future collaborative activities through this event. Last year, "Oyu Tolgoi" company handed over six sets of 48 pieces of equipment to the Forestry Agency and plans to deliver an additional four sets. The main goal of this event is to develop solutions regarding equipment usage, suitability for continued use, and any additional equipment needed, and to formulate the equipment list for supply this year. The meeting will also cover broader topics beyond nurseries, including the environment, climate change, and desertification. Founder and CEO of "Plant Sea" company, B. Khorolmaa, observed that before the "Billion Trees" national movement, the nursery sector developed on a household economy basis. It is crucial to mechanize and ease human labor in the forestry sector, and they are grateful that the mining sector has focused on this direction and worked with them. For instance, by leaning more on technical equipment, her company's labor, which used to pot 10 trees an hour, now pots 1,500 trees. However, the needs of nurseries differ, so it is best to adapt equipment that suits their operational characteristics. Also, if major equipment cannot be acquired due to high costs or loans, nearby nurseries can share equipment in a cooperative manner, allowing both parties to save financially. Similarly, the equipment provided by "Oyu Tolgoi" can be used effectively across many locations based on power capacity studies. "Agroforest" company director D. Batdorj remarked that "Oyu Tolgoi" selected 25 types of equipment. Nurseries vary in terms of stock production capacity, hence their required equipment also varies. However, they found certain equipment—such as wheeled tractor, four-furrow plough, trailing root digger, seeder, uprooter, and soil bagger—suitable for use in all types of nurseries. Additionally, although not on the list, they propose a soil factory, pot factory, or workshop for producing potted nursery stock by mass, thus enabling planting in all seasons except winter.

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DARHAN-UUL: Implementing the Mongolian Inclusive Green Cities Project

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Under the Sustainable Cities Impact Program funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the 'Mongolian Inclusive Green Cities' project is being implemented in Ulaanbaatar, Darhan, and Erdenet. This project, which will be conducted in over 20 countries worldwide by the UN, is currently at the research stage, with preliminary discussions, environmental studies, and outcome-focused meetings occurring monthly.
Starting from 2026, this project, spanning five years, will incorporate a total of 11 sector indicators. Among these, Darhan city is deemed suitable for the project due to its potential to increase green spaces, resolve waste management issues, and accelerate development due to favorable conditions for population and land.
The project document for the Mongolian Inclusive Green Cities project is being developed by a working group that visited Darhan-Uul aimag. During this visit, they met with the provincial governor and relevant officials to present the project plan, exchange ideas, and reach consensus with the local community.
The aim of this project is to support cities and local governments in becoming environmentally friendly, resilient to climate change, and minimizing carbon emissions to the feasible maximum level, as well as assisting in comprehensive urban planning, policy implementation, and investment.
The project addresses key challenges to the economic and social growth of environmentally friendly green cities and contributes to achieving the overall goals of the Sustainable Cities Impact Program. This project, to be implemented in the aforementioned three cities, has a total funding of 6.9 million USD, though the amount of funding allocated to each city has not yet been determined. It was highlighted that international and national advisory teams are working on preparing the documentation for the 'Mongolian Inclusive Green Cities' project.

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The Leather Processing Factories Will Relocate to Emeelt Within Two Years, Leading to the Decommissioning of the Khargia Wastewater Treatment Plant

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The leather processing factories currently operating in Ulaanbaatar city are set to be relocated to Emeelt. An official provided information on when these factories will move. B. Myagmar, a member of the Ulaanbaatar City Council and the CEO of the "Emeelt Eco Industrial Park" LLC, stated: "The process of relocating the leather processing factories from the 20th committee of Khan-Uul district has begun. Over 20 factories operate in this area. These factories have started acquiring land in the Emeelt eco park. The first four factories have acquired land and are currently drafting the architectural plans for their buildings." After relocating the leather processing factories from the Khan-Uul district, the contaminated soil will be cleaned, and the Urban Planning and Research Institute is finalizing the redevelopment project design. Once this document is approved by the Parliament, the redevelopment plans for the 20th committee, including school, kindergarten, and green space projects, will be implemented. The city budget allocates 50 billion MNT for various projects, including the construction of a power plant, wastewater treatment facility, and leather processing factories in Emeelt, starting this year. Over the next two years, these construction projects will be completed and, by 2027-2028, the operations of the leather processing factories will be stabilized in Emeelt. The Khargia wastewater treatment plant emits an unpleasant odor. As such, the relocation of the leather processing factories has been planned. Once the relocation is fully completed, the Khargia wastewater treatment plant will be decommissioned, and the wastewater pumps of the nearby households and businesses will be connected to the central wastewater treatment system. The rapid relocation of the leather processing factories from the capital is expected to enhance the value of waste hides and skins that are discarded without use in both urban and rural areas, creating around 5,600 jobs. Warning: Media outlets (television, radio, social media, and websites) must cite the source (ikon.mn) if using our information in any full or partial form.

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Innovation

Preparing for the Wave of Artificial Intelligence: AmCham Mongolia's March Discussion

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn

ULAANBAATAR, MONGOLIA – The American Chamber of Commerce in Mongolia ("AmCham Mongolia") organized a discussion titled "Preparing for the Wave of Artificial Intelligence." The event featured B. Manduul, Executive Director of ONDO LLC, B. Bolor-Erdene, Executive Director of AI Academy Asia, and D. Baasansuren, Deputy Director of LendMN LLC, with the discussion led by A. Byambajargal, Founder of Faro Foundation. The discussion focused on how the development of artificial intelligence will affect Mongolia, its role in resolving business challenges, and optimizing the benefits of technology from various perspectives. Participants exchanged views on preparation, big data, legal regulations, formulating vision, and future policies. B. Manduul emphasized the importance of addressing human resource and education issues, as well as how companies in the private sector should determine their priorities. "It is crucial for developing countries like Mongolia to leverage their advantages. Learning from the real examples and experiences of developed countries is beneficial," he remarked. B. Bolor-Erdene pointed out the need to avoid empty rhetoric like claiming global leadership in artificial intelligence without acknowledging the existence of only a few true developers. "In observing our general attitude, we often ignore stages of education and skill. Rash decisions, undervaluation, and a 'we'll fix it as we go' attitude lead to various risks," he explained. A. Byambajargal stated that organizations from any sector—government, private, or civil society—can utilize artificial intelligence to enhance their operations, increase productivity, and reduce costs, among other benefits. Additionally, as artificial intelligence and its applications continue long-term, he expressed confidence that everyone should strive to increase their knowledge and avoid falling behind in development. About AmCham Mongolia:
AmCham Mongolia is an independent, member-serving non-governmental organization that works to expand and strengthen business partnerships between the United States and Mongolia, protect their interests, and attract American investment to Mongolia. It is the official chapter of the American Chamber of Commerce, considered the largest business organization in the world with over 3 million members. It is also a member of the Asia-Pacific Council of American Chambers of Commerce, which unites American chambers of commerce in 29 countries across the Asia-Pacific region. Warning:
All media (Television, Radio, Social media, and Websites) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when fully or partially using this information.

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KHAN Bank to Support and Collaborate with Technology Startups through its Innovation Center

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: isee.mn

As a leader in sustainable development and digital services, KHAN Bank established its Innovation Center a year ago, becoming the first in the banking sector to support innovation-based startups and the development of students and young people. Through this center, KHAN Bank collaborates with university students and young researchers, supporting the realization of new innovative ideas and aiming to offer the best innovations in banking products and services. KHAN Bank has signed a memorandum of understanding with Exponential Zaisan Partners (XZP) to expand and enhance the operations of its Innovation Center to the next level. Established in 2022, Exponential Zaisan Partners (XZP) is a major professional investment fund that provides investment, strategic advice, and industry networking to support technology startups and businesses with global expansion potential. By collaborating with this investment fund, KHAN Bank will provide office space for a portfolio of top startup companies and offer opportunities for client organizations and investors to present their products and services, while establishing an ecosystem for technology and digital transformation. Additionally, there are plans to establish a community of technology enthusiasts among students and young people at the Innovation Center, in collaboration with domestic incubator acceleration programs. Together towards growth – KHAN Bank

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Met with the World Bank Resident Representative on Updating Digital Signature Infrastructure

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Acting State Secretary of the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communication, P. Altan-Od, met with the World Bank Resident Representative Tae Hyun Lee yesterday. The parties exchanged views on the project urgently needed for implementation in 2025 and discussed the "Smart Governance-2" project being implemented in cooperation with the World Bank. As part of this effort, the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communication plans to implement more than 10 initiatives in 2025. Specifically, they are working in stages to update the infrastructure for digital signatures (PKI), expand the capacity of the National Data Center and backup centers, and upgrade the technology of the public center for combating cyber attacks and incidents.

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Health

Eleventh Case of Measles Confirmed

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The eleventh case of measles has been confirmed by laboratory tests, as reported by the National Center for Communicable Diseases (NCCD). A child who was hospitalized at the Bayanzurkh District General Hospital from the 1st to the 4th of this month has been confirmed to have measles. This disease is highly contagious, transmitted through the respiratory tract, and vaccination is advised for prevention, according to the experts at the center. It is also necessary for those who have been in close contact with a person infected with measles to visit the Voluntary Immunization Cabinet at the NCCD. In instances of fever and rash, individuals can seek assistance from the Emergency Department of the center.

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Learning Delays Likely to Deepen After the Pandemic

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: news.mn

Mongolia is participating in the PISA, the assessment of learning outcomes, for the second time this year. This year, 7,446 students from 191 schools are participating. Students participating in the assessment were selected by sampling method from approximately 62,000 15-year-old students. This year, a distinctive feature is that the parents, guardians, and science teachers of the selected students are also participating in surveys and research. Based on the results of the PISA assessment, many advantages can be created, including defining future policies and directions for the education sector and studying experiences from other countries. For instance, since the 2022 assessment showed poor reading skills, changes are being made in the curriculum next year to enhance reading skills as part of the textbook renovation work, along with improving computer literacy to keep up with the times. Not only this assessment, but overall, students’ education fell behind significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Particularly, the majority of children who attended school for the first time during that period fell behind in their studies. The learning delays following the pandemic haven't disappeared and are likely to deepen further. Regarding this, J. Munkhtsetseg, the Deputy Coordinator of the "All for Education" national coalition of civil society, stated, "After the pandemic, to make up for the delays, digital or technological solutions are being used, such as Eduten and medleg.mn. This is not achieving equal results for every child. It appears that each child is not equally reached due to regional and family economic conditions. In other words, the results vary depending on who and where it reaches. In the education sector, it is necessary to develop gender-sensitive policies and budgets, address teachers’ and administrators’ stereotypes and biased attitudes, and adapt didactic methods to meet different learning needs." The assessment was participated in for the first time in 2022, when 7,300 students from 196 schools took part. The result showed that six out of ten children, or 64%, were rated as having poor reading skills. Specifically, Mongolia scored 425 points in the mathematics assessment and ranked 47th out of 81 countries. It was found to be 1.2 years behind Asian countries. Yet the reading skills assessment was rated the poorest. This test assesses understanding, essay writing, and self-expression skills. This skill ranked 65th among 81 countries. The result showed a five-year lag behind international indicators and a 2.5-year lag behind Asian children, meaning six out of ten students cannot read and understand well.

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Sports

The MongolZ to Play Against Major Champions Natus Vincere in ESL Pro League Quarterfinals

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The MongolZ to Play Against Major Champions Natus Vincere in ESL Pro League Quarterfinals

CS2 will face off against the major champions 'Natus Vincere' on the night of March 14-15 at 01:30.

The 21st season of the most prestigious tournament in CS2, the "ESL Pro League," is ongoing in Stockholm, Sweden. The Mongolian team "The MongolZ" has reached the quarterfinals for the first time and will play against the major champions "Natus Vincere" on the night of March 14-15 at 01:30, in a tournament with a prize pool of $400,000 (1.3 billion MNT). The two teams last met during the "IEM Katowice 2025" tournament, where the Ukrainian team won with a score of 2-0 (Ancient 13-9, Mirage 13-3). The MongolZ have qualified for the ESL Pro League finals for three consecutive seasons. The major champions Spirit team once again defeated The MongolZ. The MongolZ held G2 from 2-11 and continue to lead the ESL Pro League. In the previous season, "The MongolZ" were defeated by Turkey's "Eternal Fire" in the finals of "ESL Pro League Season 20," finishing in 9th-12th place. The MongolZ have qualified for the ESL Pro League finals for three consecutive seasons and have reached the quarterfinals for the first time. The first stage of the "ESL Pro League," which gives lower-ranked teams a chance to play against high-level teams, saw eight of the 16 participating teams advance to the second stage. In the second stage, eight directly invited teams and eight teams from the first stage play in a Swiss system, with the top eight teams that achieve three wins advancing to the playoffs.

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Arts

International 'Genghis Khan' Exhibition Opens at the Czech National Museum

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The official state visit of Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh to the Czech Republic continues. Under the auspices of Mongolian President U. Khürelsükh and Czech President Petr Pavel, the "Genghis Khan" international exhibition was inaugurated at the Czech National Museum. Both heads of state attended the opening ceremony of the exhibition. The "Genghis Khan" exhibition will be on display from March 10, 2025, to June 22, 2025. It features 698 artifacts and items from the "Genghis Khan" National Museum and the Institute of Archaeology of the Academy of Sciences. In 2023, in Nantes, France, and in 2024, in Ulaanbaatar, the exhibition was presented under the title "Genghis Khan - The Mongols Changed the World," and it has now been enhanced with rare and unique exhibits for display under the name "Genghis Khan." The exhibition aims to educate about the influence of Genghis Khan and the Mongol Empire on human history, their place, their historical realities, and to promote the unique cultural heritage of the nomadic civilization of the Mongols. This "Genghis Khan" exhibition is the first independent cultural heritage exhibition being officially presented in Prague, marking a new era of cultural and scientific cooperation between the two countries. During the opening, a contract related to organizing a dinosaur exhibition comprising 65 exhibits in Prague in 2027 was also signed by the President of the Academy of Sciences, S. Demberel, and the Director-General of the Czech National Museum, Michal Lukeš.

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Documentary Film "Deaf Nomads" Begins International Screenings

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: news.mn

The Social Democratic Mongolian Youth Union, the Cultural Center for Hearing-Impaired Citizens, and Monolith Production have collaboratively created a documentary film titled "Deaf Nomads." The film premiered during the "Asia-Pacific Countries Sustainable Development Goals Forum 2025" held in Bangkok, Thailand, and has received invitations to be screened in cities such as Rome, Italy, and Tokyo, Japan. Nomadic herders, while engaging in livestock farming throughout all four seasons, bear the responsibility of preserving the territorial integrity of the country and passing down their traditional culture and lifestyle. Despite the harsh conditions of -40 degrees in winter and +40 degrees in summer, they voluntarily practice their traditional livelihood and maintain their cultural heritage. In their secluded living areas, the nomads struggle to access social services on par with urban residents, which has become the greatest challenge for the world's last nomadic peoples. Particularly, there are significant difficulties in delivering health and medical services to both herders and their livestock. The creation of "Deaf Nomads" aims to raise international awareness of the lifestyle of Mongolian herders. The film addresses three main themes: the health and educational rights of people with disabilities, the impact of climate change on herders, and nomadic culture. This joint project by the Social Democratic Mongolian Youth Union, the Cultural Center for Hearing-Impaired Citizens, and Monolith Production plans to continue by providing livestock to hearing-impaired herder families and establishing channels to directly deliver governmental information and services to 110,000 people with disabilities, particularly those with hearing and visual impairments, either through Braille or sign language interpreters.

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Morin Khuur Orchestra Performs at the President's Palace in Czech Republic

Published: 2025-03-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The state visit of the President of Mongolia, Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, to the Czech Republic is ongoing. As part of the visit, the "Chinggis Khaan" medal-awarded Cultural Ambassador of Mongolia, the Morin Khuur Orchestra, presented their performance "Beautiful Country of Mongolia" at the President's Palace in Prague. The performance was attended by President Khurelsukh and the President of the Senate of the Czech Republic, Miloš Vystrčil. The Morin Khuur Orchestra, in full ensemble, presented the pinnacle works of Mongolian national culture and art to Mongolians living in the country and esteemed guests from the Czech government, as well as social and cultural figures. The artists have previously performed twice at Prague Castle and the Rudolfinum, making this trip their 100th international performance.

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