Ulaanbaatar, January 16, 2026 /MONTSAME/. The President of Mongolia has issued a decree aimed at treating humanity through medical theories and methodologies with unique national characteristics, protecting the genetic pool of the Mongolian population, researching and developing the inexhaustible treasury of Mongolian traditional medicine, and promoting its achievements internationally.

We clarified the details of this matter with Dr. Tsend-Ayush Damba (MD, Professor), who serves as the Secretary of the Working Group for drafting the decree, Director of the International School of Mongolian Medicine at MNUMS, and Head of the Professional Sub-Council for Traditional Medicine Research under the Ministry of Health.

Dr. Tsend-Ayush said, "In connection with the issuance of the Presidential decree on developing Mongolian traditional medicine, a 13-member working group was established in May 2025 to study relevant documents and research. The group comprised representatives from the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Justice and Home Affairs, the Ministry of Education and Science, the Ministry of Economy and Development, the Academy of Sciences, and leading organizations providing traditional medical services.

The working group was headed by Khurelbaatar Nyamdavaa (MD, Professor), Senior Advisor to the President of Mongolia. As part of the preparatory work, we integrated proposals from sector researchers, scientists, doctors, and other stakeholders. Finally, the issue was presented at a Government meeting on November 5, 2025, and after incorporating suggestions from members, the decree documentation was finalized.

Traditional medicine, which is based on the folk wisdom enriched by Mongolians to this day, is grounded in nature, climate, beliefs, lifestyle habits, and customs. The main objective of this decree lies in inheriting this knowledge for future generations and institutionalizing these practices.

According to the Law on Public Health Care and Services, which states that “Disease prevention methods shall also be provided through traditional medicine,” and in line with WHO policy documents, we are advocating for the dissemination of integrated medicine to the public. With the issuance of this decree, all health, education, and scientific organizations operating in our country will be tasked with disseminating, promoting, and preserving this cultural heritage.

The decree will open opportunities to develop traditional medicine across Mongolia's 21 aimags and 330 soums based on their specific local characteristics. Furthermore, it will pave the way for exporting health supplements and medicinal products embedded with scientific innovation."

Additionally, this decree will enable the creation of health advice, preventive methods, and theoretical methodologies based on scientific achievements, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and unique innate characteristics. By using all researched information as primary data, we will have the opportunity to introduce dietary habits, lifestyle regimens, and methods for overcoming illness, specifically tailored to the age characteristics of Mongolians, into primary healthcare as a foundation for public health."