Organic, Plant Based British Vitamins Now Available in Mongolia (High-quality vitamins perfectly suited to organizational employee health and social welfare policies) www.mongolianbusinessdatabase.com

British Business Centre, the official distributor of one of the UK's leading LifePlan, is introducing the Healthilife range to Mongolia — premium, 100% bio and plant‑based supplements.

Products:

Healthilife for Beauty — supports healthy, radiant skin, nails and hair

Healthilife for Night — promotes deep, restful sleep

Healthilife for Brain — supports active cognitive function

Healthilife for Immunity — boosts immunity and restores daily vitality

Healthilife for Digestion — supports normal digestive function

Features:

TraceSupple™ standard: formulated from organic, plant‑based ingredients with full ingredient transparency

Free from artificial colours, flavours, preservatives and gluten — suitable for vegetarians and sensitive users

LifePlan: established 1983; manufactured to ISO9000, GMP, MHRA standards; exported to 40+ countries

Packaged in amber glass to protect product integrity and extend shelf life

High-quality vitamins perfectly suited to workplace employee health and social welfare policies!

Where to buy:

Available at British Business Centre (Baruun 4 Zam), Europharma, Songdo, Buman San pharmacies, and British Shop (Organic Market, River Garden).

You can review full details on our Facebook page and place your order there for delivery!

Contact:

British Business Centre (баруун 4 зам)

www.britishbusinesscentre.com

FB page: British Business Centre

management@britishbusinesscentre.com

77552002

Mongolia announces broad tax reforms, cuts corporate tax to 15% www.regfollower.com

Mongolia's government has introduced sweeping tax reforms following year-long consultations with 13,000 stakeholders, promising to cut taxes by MNT 2.7 trillion through progressive corporate rates, expanded SME support, enhanced VAT refunds for citizens, and a modernised compliance system that prioritises guidance over penalties—set to take effect in January 2027. 

Mongolia’s government submitted a comprehensive tax reform package to Parliament on 30 December 2025, following extensive nationwide consultations with over 13,000 citizens and businesses throughout the year.

The proposed amendments to corporate income tax, personal income tax, value-added tax (VAT), and the General Tax Law are scheduled for implementation on 1 January 2027.

After organising 178 meetings and collecting approximately 176,000 comments from stakeholders across the country, officials from the Ministry of Finance and General Tax Administration presented the draft legislation, which aims to reduce the overall tax burden by MNT 2.7 trillion in stages—MNT 2 trillion for citizens and MNT 700 billion for businesses.

Progressive corporate tax rates and expanded support for enterprises

The reform introduces significant changes to the corporate taxation structure. Companies earning between MNT 6 billion and MNT 10 billion will face a reduced tax rate of 15%, down from the current 25%.

Only businesses with income exceeding MNT 10 billion will pay the 25% rate, as the threshold increases from MNT 6 billion.

Small and medium-sized enterprises will benefit from expanded simplified tax regimes. The threshold for the 1% tax rate increases from MNT 1.5 billion to MNT 2.5 billion, while businesses with income up to MNT 400 million can now access the simplified 1% regime.

Additionally, enterprises qualifying for a 90% tax refund will see their eligibility threshold raised to MNT 2.5 billion.

The package addresses longstanding VAT concerns by removing restrictions on deductions for business activities and allowing manufacturers to fully utilise e-receipts for raw material purchases. Businesses can now defer VAT payments at customs for up to two months, and the reporting period extends from one year to two years.

Relief for individual taxpayers and first-time homebuyers

Citizens will receive 100% tax exemption on their monthly income up to MNT 500,000. The VAT refund system offers tiered benefits: 100% refunds on purchases up to MNT 500,000 monthly, 50% for purchases between MNT 500,000 and MNT 1 million and 20% for amounts exceeding MNT 1 million.

First-time homebuyers in regional areas and those purchasing energy-efficient housing will qualify for tax breaks of up to MNT 15 million.

Enhanced tax administration and compliance framework

The reform shifts tax administration toward a more supportive approach, emphasising advice and assistance over penalties. Rather than completely freezing accounts of debtors, the new system allows 20% of future income to remain accessible, changing the withholding rate from 100% to 80% to enable businesses to continue operations while settling tax obligations.

The compliance points system introduces flexible payment terms and grants taxpayers the right to correct reports within two years, focusing on risk warnings rather than immediate fines and allowing self-correction of mistakes before penalties apply.

Untapped Rare Earth Potential Positions Mongolia for Future Development www.resourceworld.com

Mongolia is a geostrategically significant mineral jurisdiction located between two of the world’s most resource rich countries, Russia and China. Positioned on the Central Asian plateau, Mongolia shares geological structures that extend across national borders. In the case of rare earth elements, the presence of the “Bayan Obo” deposit in northern China, widely regarded as the largest known rare earth deposit in the world, suggests that comparable geological systems may also occur within Mongolia. Yet favourable geology alone does not automatically translate into economic outcomes. Structural, technological and institutional constraints have historically limited Mongolia’s ability to convert geological potential into commercially viable development.

Much of what we understand today about rare earth element occurrences in Mongolia originates from Soviet era geological programs that focused primarily on nationwide mapping and regional geological interpretation rather than defining rare earths as a specific economic target. Within this broader scientific work, numerous rare earth related occurrences were recorded and documented across Mongolia. Against this background, the evolution of Mongolia’s rare earth sector can be broadly understood through three successive phases.

State-Funded Geological Mapping and the Recording of REE Occurrences:  Before 1990, geological work in Mongolia was centrally coordinated and state funded, focused on nationwide mapping and the study of stratigraphy, tectonics, and magmatic systems. These surveys identified a number of geologically promising occurrences, including early indications of both light and heavy rare earth elements. The occurrences were documented as part of broader geological investigations, providing an initial scientific foundation for understanding Mongolia’s rare earth potential. However, most findings remained at the occurrence level and were not advanced to economic evaluation or project development.

Democratic Transition, Licensing Reform, and the Rise of Private Exploration:  Following Mongolia’s democratic transition after 1990, market reforms introduced a licensing regime enabling private participation and clearer exploration and exploitation rights as the mining legal framework developed during the 1990s. Companies revisited earlier geological datasets and expanded fieldwork, although most projects remained at preliminary exploration stages. Nevertheless, this period marked a turning point by establishing the legal foundations for modern exploration activity.

Private Exploration Growth and the Challenge of Technological Alignment: Since around 2015, rising global demand has intensified exploration while highlighting that REE development requires alignment between geology and downstream processing, separation, and metallurgical testing. Limited domestic processing capacity makes international validation essential, and regulatory clarity from exploration to mining approval remains a key factor influencing project bankability.

International Estimates and the Real Meaning of Mongolia’s REE Potential: International policy circles and strategic research institutions have long highlighted Mongolia’s rare earth element (REE) endowment as a potentially significant strategic resource. Much of this narrative traces back to a 2009 assessment by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), later cited in UNCTAD reports, which suggested that Mongolia could host approximately 31 million tonnes of rare earth resources. At the time, this estimate represented nearly 16% of globally identified reserves, positioning Mongolia among the more notable rare earth exploration frontiers outside China.

According to Mongolian specialists, however, a consolidation of archived geological materials indicates that currently defined deposits contain approximately 3.1 million tonnes of rare earth oxides (REO). The apparent difference between these figures does not imply a reduction in Mongolia’s geological potential but rather reflects different classification frameworks and reporting methodologies. Importantly, the oxide estimate is largely based on six to seven deposits identified prior to 2015, while many prospective regions remain insufficiently explored and have yet to be evaluated under modern geological, technical, and metallurgical standards.

Strengthening Policy Clarity for Sustainable REE Development: In Mongolia’s current legal environment, the country remains open and broadly positive toward foreign investment in the mining sector. However, the issuance or transfer of new exploration and mining licences for rare earth elements (REEs) is subject to prior consideration by the National Security Council before approval. While this mechanism is intended to safeguard national interests, in practice, the interpretation and application of the process have not been uniform. Licence holders and project developers have conveyed differing explanations to investors, resulting in the absence of a consolidated market understanding

Accordingly, greater clarity regarding the review process, procedural steps, timelines, and evaluation criteria is essential. A more predictable and coherent regulatory framework would enable projects to transition to subsequent stages in a more structured and efficient manner.

Ultimately, future progress will depend not merely on the scale of geological resources but on the integration of exploration results with viable processing technologies, metallurgical validation, market strategy, and appropriately structured investment frameworks supported by experienced professional advisers. When geology, technology, and finance are aligned within a coherent strategic approach, Mongolia’s REE sector has a credible opportunity to advance to the next stage of project development without unnecessary delay.

By Bolormaa Nuurkhuu, B.Sc.

Luxembourg Parliamentary Delegation Visiting Mongolia www.montsame.mn

At the invitation of Temuulen Ganzorig, Chairman of the Standing Committee on Security and Foreign Policy of the State Great Khural (Parliament), a parliamentary delegation from the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, led by Gusty Graas, Member of the Chamber of Deputies and Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, is visiting Mongolia.

On March 24, Temuulen, along with committee members and Munkhsoyol Baatarjav, head of the Mongolia-Luxembourg Parliamentary Group, met with the visiting delegation.  

At the meeting, Temuulen said that Mongolia attaches great importance to its relations and cooperation with the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, noting that the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations provides a favorable environment to deepen mutual understanding and expand cooperation.    

He emphasized that parliamentary cooperation will play a key role in strengthening ties grounded in shared values of human rights and democracy.

He also noted that Mongolia’s parliament ratified a loan agreement with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development on December 25, 2025, for the establishment of a National Cardiovascular Center. The project is expected to make a significant contribution to public health and stand as a symbol of five decades of cooperation. He expressed gratitude for Luxembourg’s grant assistance.

Munkhsoyol provided a brief overview of the Mongolia-Luxembourg parliamentary group, established in April 2025 with five members. She noted Mongolia’s efforts to increase women’s representation through electoral reforms and stated that the current 126-member parliament will continue to prioritize women’s participation in decision-making.

Gusty Graas expressed satisfaction with the visit, taking place during the milestone anniversary of diplomatic relations, and discussed inter-parliamentary cooperation and progress on healthcare projects.

The two sides also highlighted the cardiovascular health project, which has been implemented in five phases over 25 years.

The visit of the Luxembourg parliamentary delegation is ongoing, according to the Press Office of the State Great Khural.

The Bank of Mongolia and the People's Bank of China will elevate their relationship to a new level of strategic partnership www.open.kg

On March 24, Naranjogt Sambuu, the Governor of the Bank of Mongolia, held an important meeting with Pan Gongsheng, the head of the People's Bank of China.

The meeting took place in a constructive and friendly atmosphere, where the participants discussed key aspects that could elevate the strategic cooperation between the central banks to a new level, reaching consensus, reports MiddleAsianNews.

During the negotiations, the following important issues were addressed:

Agreements on currency swaps and foreign trade: The parties discussed the possibilities for improving and extending the currency swap agreement that has been in effect since 2011. This agreement plays a key role in maintaining liquidity and increasing trade turnover between the countries, supporting settlements in national currencies and facilitating regional economic integration. The participants unanimously agreed on the need to work together to improve the use of currency swaps, drawing on best practices applied in countries such as Korea and Turkey.

Modern payment systems: Naranjogt Sambuu presented the concept of transitioning to a digital infrastructure for payments between the two countries, discussing opportunities for cooperation in projects such as mBridge. The focus was on modernizing payment systems based on new technologies to reduce costs and increase the speed of cross-border payments.

Financial stability in the region: The participants emphasized the importance of joint efforts by the central banks to enhance the consistency of macroeconomic policies and ensure financial stability amid growing uncertainty in the global economy.

The head of the Bank of Mongolia, Naranjogt Sambuu, noted: “Our cooperation is based on trust, and I am confident that today’s negotiations will create a solid foundation for further growth in trade, investment, and sustainable economic development.”

As a result of the meeting, the parties agreed on the necessity of further strengthening friendly relations between the central banks and activating their joint activities.

Export of Krush beer by Lotte Chilsung to Mongolia increased by 90% www.open.kg

The strategy of Lotte Chilsung Beverage emphasizes that Korean companies entering the Mongolian market strive to be open to new cultures and the characteristics of the local youth.

Actively developing its distribution and marketing, the company targets the youth audience and leverages Mongolia's openness to novelty.

Krush beer from Lotte Chilsung Beverage is quickly gaining popularity in the Mongolian beer market.

According to MiddleAsianNews, the export of Lotte Chilsung beer to Mongolia increased by approximately 90% in 2025 compared to the previous year. This contributed to a 40% growth in the company's overall beer exports last year.

In 2024, Lotte Chilsung Beverage focused on increasing brand awareness of "Krush" after its entry into the Mongolian market. The company is expanding its distribution network, covering the capital Ulaanbaatar, and sells Krush in major supermarkets such as NOMIN, as well as in Korean retail chains like E-mart, GS25, and CU. Currently, Krush is available in about 2000 stores, including supermarkets and convenience stores.

In addition to strengthening sales channels, the company is actively developing consumer marketing. To attract the youth audience, advertising events are held in popular clubs in Ulaanbaatar on weekends. In the summer, the company expanded its advertising activities to remote areas to reach consumers. It also served as the main sponsor of concerts featuring well-known artists and utilized social media for promotion through content created in collaboration with famous influencers.

One of the reasons for Krush's popularity is the unique open consumer culture of Mongolia. More than 60% of the country's population is under 39 years old, making the youth particularly receptive to new cultural influences.

The growing interest in Korean cuisine also contributes to the increasing demand for Korean beer. According to statistics from the Korea Customs Service on export-import trade, the volume of beer exported to Mongolia last year amounted to 31,033 tons, surpassing exports to China, Japan, and the USA.

For the current year, Lotte Chilsung Beverage aims to expand its customer base in Mongolia and increase the number of Krush beer consumers through various advertising campaigns. In this direction, tastings and promotional events are planned to be held in hotels and restaurants across the country.

A representative of Lotte Chilsung Beverage noted: "Thanks to the established marketing strategy that takes into account the specifics of the local alcoholic beverage market, we have significantly increased the brand awareness of Krush in Mongolia," adding: "We intend to expand consumer advertising campaigns so that Krush stands out in the imported beer market in the country."

The Government of Mongolia Faces Harsh Criticism at the 61st Session of the UN Human Rights Council www.open.kg

According to information from MiddleAsianNews, a statement regarding the adoption of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) report on Mongolia was made at the 61st session of the UN Council.

The speaker was Ms. Urantülekhüür Mandkhaitsetzen from the Center for Human Rights and Development.

Dear Mr. President,

The organizations CIVICUS, ADN, and CHRD express their gratitude for Mongolia's active participation in the Universal Periodic Review process. In this cycle, Mongolia received 23 recommendations, of which 22 were supported.

We are pleased to see that the government approved recommendations for the protection of human rights defenders and journalists, as well as for preventing the use of laws to restrict their rights and ensuring their protection from persecution and intimidation. We also positively assess the support for the repeal of Article 13.14 of the Criminal Code concerning defamation and the provision of press freedom.

However, we express regret that the government did not support the recommendations to review or repeal Articles 17.6 and 19.11 of the Criminal Code, which are also used to prosecute activists and journalists.

In recent years, our organizations have recorded cases of persecution and criminalization of activists and journalists in Mongolia. We also express concern regarding the draft laws concerning NGOs that do not meet international standards. Additionally, we are alarmed by the proposed laws on internet control and restrictions regarding peaceful protests.

Dear Mr. President, we strongly urge the government of Mongolia to take active steps to implement the recommendations of the Universal Periodic Review, ensuring that all laws comply with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, effectively enforcing the 2021 Law on Human Rights Defenders, and reviewing the Law on Demonstrations and Public Gatherings in accordance with international rights and standards.

Sincerely,

Mongolia hikes diesel price by 300 MNT www.news.mn

Oil prices have increased from $70 to $110 due to the Middle East crisis. In response to this situation, the Prime Minister of Mongolia ordered the establishment of a working group to assess potential developments and address related challenges.

Currently, Mongolia has sufficient reserves of petroleum products. For example, reserves of AI-92 gasoline are sufficient for 42 days, while diesel fuel reserves are sufficient for 28 days.

AI-92 gasoline is currently priced at a fixed rate of $705 and will not increase as of today. However, a price rise in diesel fuel is considered unavoidable. Initially, diesel prices will increase by 300 MNT. Industry experts believe this increase will not have a significant impact on inflation. They aim to raise prices gradually rather than implementing a sharp increase of 1,000–1,500 MNT at once. A sudden, steep rise could lead to shortages and further pressure on inflation.

Government to liberalize energy prices by end of year www.gogo.mn

The government led by Prime Minister G.Zandanshatar is working to liberalize energy prices by the end of this year. Under the plan, prices will be freed from fixed setting by the state and the Energy Regulatory Commission.

Cabinet members say the long-debated issue is expected to be resolved once and for all.

The Energy Regulatory Commission last raised consumer electricity tariffs on November 15, 2024. At that time, the average electricity price for households and businesses was set at MNT 216 per 1 kWh, bringing it closer to actual costs.

In November 2024, the Energy Regulatory Commission also increased heating prices by an average of 85%. The decision was scheduled to take effect on May 16, 2025, but was later postponed until 2027 due to concerns that it would raise inflation and negatively affect citizens’ livelihoods.

If heating prices are adjusted to actual costs, the price in the capital alone would reach MNT 1,012.

In a statement on March 24, Minister of Economy and Development J.Enkhbayar said the increase in energy prices is estimated to raise inflation by 1.5-2.4%. “The share of energy costs in a household’s monthly income has decreased. Compared with other countries, our energy prices are low. In the future, energy demand will increase every year,” he said.

Despite higher electricity prices, new power sources and expanded capacity, the energy sector continues to operate at a loss of trillions of tugriks. Liberalizing prices would help reduce losses and attract investment into the sector.

Mongolia’s meat exports to Middle East reach USD 60 million www.gogo.mn

J.Enkhbayar, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Development, made a statement on March 24, 2026, regarding the possible impact of the tense situation in the Middle East on Mongolia’s economy, as well as the measures to be taken and current issues.

Minister J.Enkhbayar said the risk of a direct impact on Mongolia’s economic relations with China and Russia is high, particularly in connection with key export products. However, he noted that the impact on economic relations with Middle Eastern countries is minimal.

He said Mongolia exports about USD 60 million worth of meat to the Middle East, with Iran and Qatar among its main markets. According to him, measures will be taken to stabilize these exports and shift them to other regions if necessary. He added that the risk is expected to remain low, as Mongolian livestock meat has a relatively strong reputation in the region and demand remains high.

Mongolia exports 64 types of products to the Middle East, accounting for 0.42 percent of total exports. Imports from the region are also limited, at about USD 8.8 million, meaning the overall impact on Mongolia’s economy is expected to be small, Minister J.Enkhbayar said.