The country is expected to harvest 555,300 tonnes of wheat, 168,200 tonnes of potatoes and 220,000 tonnes of vegetables in 2026, according to the preliminary harvest balance presented by Food, Agriculture and Light Industry Minister Ts.Iderbat on August 26.  

The preliminary figures indicate that domestic production will fully meet the country’s demand for wheat and potatoes, while covering approximately 70 percent of vegetable demand. The projected harvest also includes 50,000 tonnes of oilseeds and 200,000 tonnes of animal feed. 

A total of 370,000 hectares was cultivated during this year’s spring planting campaign. Wheat accounted for 318,000 hectares, while 13,000 hectares were planted with potatoes, 14,000 hectares with vegetables, 90,000 hectares with green fodder and 94,000 hectares with oilseeds. 

The government reported that more than 200,000 additional tonnes of wheat were planted compared with the same period last year. Since the beginning of the spring planting season, it has taken measures to support farmers, including ensuring uninterrupted fuel supplies and providing 140 billion MNT in working capital loans.

Meanwhile, preparations are underway to address labor shortages during the harvest. Approximately 2,800 military personnel, trainees, students and young people are expected to participate in harvesting activities. As of August 24, 115 military personnel were already working to harvest potatoes and vegetables. The Harvest Commission will meet in September to address issues related to manpower, energy, roads, mountain passes, bridges and dams required to complete the harvest.

The 2026 budget amendment also allocates approximately 150 billion MNT for food and strategic reserves. The government plans to increase the strategic wheat reserve to 100,000 tonnes and provide financial support and preferential loans to flour mills to purchase wheat and meet domestic wheat demand. Mongolia has also imported more than 110,000 tonnes of wheat out of the more than 120,000 tonnes it was authorized to import last year, the minister shared.