Publication Details
Abstract
Agriculture remains the backbone of Uzbekistan’s economy, crucial for employment, exports, and food security, especially under the pressures of global climate change and economic reform. Despite many studies on Uzbekistan’s agricultural reforms, there is limited exploration of how innovative development models and international best practices, particularly from China, can strengthen sustainability. Previous research has insufficiently addressed the integration of modern cluster-based models, digital technologies, and nutrition-sensitive planning within Uzbekistan’s agricultural sector. This study aims to evaluate the country’s agricultural reforms, examine structural characteristics like smallholder dominance, and propose strategies for improving productivity, export potential, and food security. The findings show that while agriculture’s GDP share is declining, it remains vital for rural livelihoods, with clusters, greenhouses, and digital tools driving productivity gains; however, challenges persist, including informal labor, low nutritional intake, and price disparities. This research uniquely combines empirical data, global comparative analysis, and case studies to offer context-sensitive recommendations for strengthening value chains, formalizing employment, and improving agricultural governance in Uzbekistan. The insights have significant policy relevance, suggesting that aligning agricultural reforms with global sustainability standards, expanding vocational training, and fostering public-private partnerships are key to ensuring resilient, inclusive, and competitive agricultural development in Uzbekistan.