Publication Details
Abstract
This study aims to analyze the latest trends in the development and management of SEZs in Uzbekistan. It focuses on the strategic potential of SEZs in attracting foreign investment and accelerating industrialization and employment. The results show that despite the significant achievements of national strategies and presidential decrees, there is a range of problems related to infrastructure development, management and bureaucratic coordination. In addition, there is a knowledge gap in assessing the relative effectiveness of SEZs in different regions of the country and analyzing their integration into the national economy. The researchers used a mixed methodology because document analysis includes an assessment of the legal frameworks and their statistical analysis of investment in mining, pharmaceutical, tourism and agricultural SEZs. The results demonstrate that 566 investment projects had been realized in the 12 industrial zones with a total investment of more than $ 6.1 billion. More than 9,800 jobs were created as a result of these activities. However, energy shortages, logistics availability, and administrative inefficiencies continue to limit the efficiency of these SEZs. In addition, SEZs have become one of the most important drivers of diversification and export opportunities. However, they still underperform due to poor regional organization and uneven provision of critical infrastructure. Thus, it may be concluded that improved management of SEZs, with simplified bureaucracies, adequate and timely investments in infrastructure and support for investors, may be significantly beneficial to the sustainability of the overall economic growth. It is necessary to develop different models of SEZs and their specialization to maximize their economic and social benefits.