The Standing Subcommittee on Tourism Development of the State Great Khural (Parliament) held its first meeting of 2026 on March 31, receiving updates on sector policy, implementation of laws and regulations, and pressing challenges.

Director of the Tourism Policy and Regulation Department at the Ministry of Culture, Sports, Tourism and Youth, Batchimeg V., reported that Mongolia welcomed more than 847,000 tourists in 2025, generating USD 728 million in export revenue. Domestic tourism spending reached MNT 2.6 trillion, bringing the total economic output of the sector to MNT 5.2 trillion (USD 1.4 billion), underscoring tourism’s growing importance to the national economy. She also noted that Mongolia ranked 15th among the world’s top 20 fastest-growing destinations in the UN World Tourism Barometer.

The sector operates under the revised Law on Tourism adopted in 2023, along with one parliamentary resolution and Government Resolution No. 95, with implementation currently at 69.1 percent. Updated regulations on classification and grading of tourism service providers have been approved, while a “Winter Tourism Development Plan” is being implemented as part of efforts to promote year-round tourism.

In terms of international cooperation, Mongolia hosted the launch of the “Tea Road Auto Tourism” initiative during the 9th trilateral tourism ministers’ meeting of Mongolia, China, and Russia in Darkhan-Uul aimag in November 2025. A national travel platform is also ready for development. Additionally, a Tourism Training Center building has been handed over under Mongolia–Republic of Korea cooperation, with preparations underway to establish a formal vocational training institution based on the facility.

Infrastructure improvements are progressing, including an increase in direct international flights, with Khuvsgul aimag receiving international arrivals. Concessional loans for tourism businesses are set to be issued starting this month.

Looking ahead, the government is prioritizing the establishment of a tourism development fund, improved tax policy to reinvest in the sector, expanded infrastructure, and sustainable tourism practices that reduce environmental impact while benefiting local communities. Key challenges remain in upgrading airports and border capacity, improving roads, expanding year-round eco-friendly accommodations, and developing distinctive tourism products and attractions.

Minister of Culture, Sports, Tourism and Youth Undram Chinbat stated that the government has identified 17 tourism zones across 12 aimags for the first time and is developing management plans for each with international support. She added that businesses in the sector will have access to loans with a 6 percent interest rate, a six-year term, and a one-year grace period on principal repayment.

Members of Parliament raised concerns about future tourist growth amid rising fuel and flight costs. The minister noted that earlier projections estimated Mongolia could receive around one million tourists this year, although increasing airfare prices may affect demand. She also highlighted strong demand for financing, with loan requests totaling MNT 800 billion submitted to banks, despite only MNT 250 billion available this year, and called for continued support to expand funding in the coming years.

Published Date:2026-04-02