Rare Earth Supply Chain: China Northern Rare Earth Group plans a $74m, 50% expansion of the Bayan Obo rare earth mine in Inner Mongolia to boost ore processing and secure critical-mineral supply for high-tech manufacturing. Fuel & Logistics in Mongolia: Mongolia’s fuel distribution is set to normalize next week after a Russian AI-92 shipment; a rapid response team reports unloading progress and continued rail deliveries, while authorities manage station queues and keep tax-account freezes off fuel importers. Monetary Policy: Mongol Bank raised the policy rate to 12.5% and increased the reserve ratio to 14.5% to curb accelerating core inflation and external price pressures, with fuel and food driving July inflation. Mining & Finance: Erdene reported Q2 2026 results, including 11,709 oz gold produced at Bayan Khundii and progress on the Zuun Mod molybdenum-copper project. Energy Markets: Russia’s Inter RAO increased electricity exports 4% in 1H 2026 while imports fell 5.3%, underscoring shifting cross-border power flows. COP17 & Land Restoration: Mongolia prepares to host UNCCD COP17 (Aug 17–28) with COP17 leadership and a “Steppe Action” agenda focused on rangelands, land-water links, and restoration financing. Wildlife-Friendly Construction: Ulaanbaatar is rolling out training on wildlife-friendly fence standards for green belt and protected areas to reduce barriers to animal movement.