THE ROLE OF SME DEVELOPMENT FOR REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE CASE OF UZBEKISTAN

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play a crucial role in fostering regional development by driving economic diversification, employment generation, and innovation. In Uzbekistan, the government has implemented several policies to support SME growth, recognizing its significance in economic decentralization and regional prosperity. This study examines the impact of SME development on regional economic growth in Uzbekistan by analyzing government policies, economic indicators, and case studies of successful SMEs. The findings highlight the role of SMEs in reducing regional economic disparities and propose strategies to enhance their contribution.