Mongolia has taken a bold step forward in digital development. The government introduced its draft National Strategy on Big Data and Artificial Intelligence this week. The Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communications led the discussion.
Importantly, the meeting gathered scholars, academic researchers, and leaders from top institutions. During the event, Minister Baatarkhuu Tsend outlined the country’s current digital standing. While Mongolia ranks between 90th and 110th in general development, it holds 46th in the E-Government Development Index.
Because of this strong digital foundation, the Minister expressed confidence. He stated that Mongolia could become a digital leader in Central Asia. However, he emphasized that success depends on effective strategy implementation.
Moreover, Minister Baatarkhuu explained how global practices shaped the strategy. Yet, he quickly added that Mongolia must adapt those ideas to local conditions. “Without matching our context,” he said, “global solutions won’t work.”
Since January 2025, the Ministry has worked with experts from academia and the private sector. As a result, the draft now reflects a wide range of insights. Currently, the team is fine-tuning the strategy before sending it to the State Great Khural.
The National Strategy on Big Data and Artificial Intelligence includes several important pillars. First, it proposes building an AI ecosystem to support a digital economy. Second, it highlights the use of big data to develop a “House of Knowledge.”
In addition, the strategy supports AI applications to boost productivity in all sectors. From healthcare to agriculture, every area stands to benefit.
During 2025 and 2026, the plan focuses on infrastructure. For instance, the government will establish a GPU cluster-based AI Center. Furthermore, they will launch a National Data Repository and form a National Council on Artificial Intelligence.
Later, in 2027, the focus will shift toward education. Specifically, the government will fund 100 AI research topics. It will also offer scholarships to 300 graduate students. In parallel, they will train 1,000 AI ambassadors to raise public awareness.
To encourage innovation, the Ministry will also launch a startup program. This program will support entrepreneurs working in big data and AI.
By 2030, the National Strategy on Big Data and Artificial Intelligence sets major goals. Mongolia plans to export AI products across the region. Additionally, it aims to host two international data centers.
Through careful planning and steady progress, the nation intends to lead digital development in Central Asia. Indeed, the National Strategy on Big Data and Artificial Intelligence represents a new chapter in Mongolia’s technological journey.
Ultimately, this strategy shows that Mongolia is not just catching up—it’s aiming to lead.
