Mongolia in the digital age: National digital strategy primer

Strategies and Action Plans

The ‘National Digital Strategy Primer for Mongolia’ is a comprehensive framework developed to guide Mongolia into a future shaped by digital transformation. This strategy aims to foster an inclusive digital society by bridging existing technological gaps, nurturing a digitally skilled workforce, and enabling businesses to compete in a global digital economy. It is the result of collaborative efforts by the Mongolian government, private stakeholders, and international partners.

The strategy has been designed with the primary purpose of ensuring that all Mongolians, regardless of their geographical or socio-economic circumstances, can actively participate in and benefit from the digital economy. The strategy does not merely address infrastructure and connectivity but also focuses on human capital development, innovation ecosystems, and regulatory frameworks. It is structured around key focus areas to ensure a cohesive and goal-oriented approach.

The scope of this strategy is far-reaching, encompassing education, infrastructure, business innovation, governance, and cybersecurity. By addressing sectoral needs and aligning with Mongolia’s long-term national development goals, it lays the groundwork for sustainable economic growth and social equity. This strategy also positions Mongolia as a digitally inclusive nation, integrating modern technologies into various sectors, including agriculture, mining, and public service delivery.

Goals and focus areas

  • Fostering an inclusive digital society.
  • Enhancing connectivity and accessibility.
  • Enabling effective regulations for a business-friendly environment.
  • Supporting innovative start-ups and entrepreneurship.
  • Strengthening cybersecurity and data protection.
  • Integrating digital technologies into sectoral policies for socio-economic development.

Introducing digital education across life phases

The strategy emphasizes the need to embed digital literacy and skills into every phase of life, ensuring no citizen is left behind. Mongolia’s youthful population and high literacy rate provide a strong foundation for adopting new technologies. However, disparities in access to education and resources must be addressed to achieve digital inclusion.

Digital education will be integrated into curriculums from primary to higher education, promoting life-long learning opportunities. Teachers will be equipped with the necessary tools to deliver digital literacy effectively, and partnerships will be formed with local and international institutions to provide flexible learning options. A focus will also be placed on aligning education with the demands of the digital job market, ensuring that graduates possess the skills required to thrive in a competitive, technology-driven economy.


Improving connectivity and accessibility

Mongolia’s vast and sparsely populated terrain presents unique challenges to digital connectivity. While urban areas enjoy diverse and affordable internet options, rural and remote regions remain underserved. The strategy prioritizes expanding mobile and broadband coverage, including 4G and planning for 5G deployment.

The government aims to leverage e-government systems to provide public services digitally, thereby reducing the digital divide and incentivizing businesses and citizens to adopt digital technologies. Initiatives will target underrepresented groups, ensuring that women, the unemployed, and those living in disadvantaged areas are empowered through digital literacy campaigns and programs.


Effective regulation for a business-friendly environment

To create a thriving digital economy, Mongolia recognizes the need for adaptive regulations that support innovation while protecting consumers. Current policies will be updated to address the challenges posed by digital assets and new business models. Intellectual property protections will be strengthened, and digital payment systems will be integrated with international platforms to facilitate e-commerce.

Efforts will also focus on fostering competition by promoting fair market practices and reducing barriers to entry for new businesses. By doing so, Mongolia aims to attract domestic and international investments, creating a vibrant ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship.


Building an ecosystem for innovative start-ups

Start-ups are critical drivers of digital transformation, and Mongolia aims to cultivate a supportive environment for their growth. The strategy includes establishing innovation hubs and incubators to provide mentorship and shared resources. Funding opportunities will be diversified through the promotion of venture capital and angel investment networks.

Collaboration between the government, private sector, and academic institutions will be encouraged to enhance research and development. This integrated approach will enable start-ups to scale their solutions beyond Mongolia, contributing to the global digital economy.


Strengthening cybersecurity and data protection

As Mongolia advances in its digital journey, cybersecurity and data protection have become paramount. The strategy proposes the establishment of a national cybersecurity agency to develop a comprehensive framework and respond to cyber threats. Professional training and certification programs will be introduced to build local expertise in this critical area.

The government will also promote innovative uses of data, ensuring that it serves as a public good while upholding ethical standards. An ethical framework for data management will be developed in collaboration with educational institutions and disseminated through public awareness campaigns.


Integrating digital technologies into sectoral policies

The strategy recognizes the transformative potential of digital technologies across all sectors. By embedding digital perspectives into policies for agriculture, mining, tourism, and other industries, Mongolia aims to enhance productivity and economic growth. Public services will be modernized through digitalization, improving accessibility and efficiency while fostering greater trust and engagement with the government.

Active inter-agency discussions and investments in interoperable digital infrastructure will ensure that the benefits of digital transformation are felt across all sectors, contributing to Mongolia’s long-term development goals.