DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION AND ITS ROLE IN BOOSTING ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS OF UZBEKISTAN

Abstract

Digital transformation has emerged as a critical driver of economic competitiveness in the 21st century, reshaping production, trade, and public governance worldwide. For emerging economies like Uzbekistan, the rapid adoption of digital technologies offers opportunities to accelerate industrial modernization, enhance productivity, and expand participation in global value chains. This study aims to examine the role of digital transformation in boosting Uzbekistan’s economic competitiveness by analyzing key achievements, identifying existing challenges, and evaluating future prospects. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research combines quantitative analysis of macroeconomic and ICT-related indicators with qualitative assessment of policy frameworks, institutional reforms, and international benchmarks. The findings reveal significant progress in expanding broadband infrastructure, digitalizing public services, and fostering the ICT sector’s contribution to GDP. However, challenges remain in human capital development, cybersecurity, and bridging the urban–rural digital divide. Comparative analysis with regional peers shows that Uzbekistan is advancing rapidly but must sustain its reform momentum to maintain competitive advantage. The study concludes that strategic investments in education, innovation ecosystems, and industry–academia partnerships are essential to fully leverage digital transformation for economic competitiveness.