Mongolia’s Social Spending Push: PM Uchral opened the trade union fair and outlined a 2026 revised budget plus 2027 draft, including pension increases starting Nov 1 (MNT 769,000 to MNT 1 million), no energy tariff hikes, and energy-sector funding split between repairs and subsidies. Energy & Infrastructure in the West: President Khurelsukh met Khovd residents and highlighted progress on the Erdeneburen Hydropower Plant (40% complete, commissioning planned for 2030), tying it to western aimag power needs and grid support. Fuel Efficiency Trials: The Fuel Ox reported Mongolian heavy-equipment field tests showing diesel savings of about 8–20% under real industrial loads, targeting construction and mining operators. Mining Market Signal: The Mongolian Stock Exchange auctioned Erdenet’s molybdenum concentrate for the first time, with the price jumping to $33,767.9/ton. Leather Supply Chain Upgrade: Mongolia’s “Leather to Wealth” program is using the Agricultural Commodity Exchange to source hides and skins from multiple aimags via new collection points, aiming to cut intermediaries and raise raw-material value. Oil & Gas Cooperation Talks: Mongolia discussed long-term petroleum supply arrangements and coal-chemistry cooperation with NORINCO, including logistics support at the border. CSG Production Milestone: TMK Energy said gas output at its Gurvantes XXXV pilot well project rose 11% over August, with multiple wells hitting record highs. Clean Energy MoUs: Mongolia and the UAE signed clean energy and green hydrogen cooperation agreements. AI Governance Noise: China pushed back on calls to slow AI development, while Anthropic faced scrutiny over AI rules and data practices.