What Explains Wage Variation Across Regions in Uzbekistan?

This study empirically analyzes the main economic and demographic factors affecting the average wage level in 14 regions of Uzbekistan between 2017 and 2023. The study, based on panel data, uses a fixed effects (FE) regression model that takes into account individual (inter-regional) changes. The main independent variables are productivity, investment volume, education ratio, inflation rate, population, employment rate, and GDP. The results of the analysis show that productivity, investment, and population are the factors that have the strongest impact on wage growth. Education and inflation are not statistically significant in this model. Practical policy recommendations are developed based on the results.