ENHANCING FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY AND OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY OF JSC "HUDUDGAZTAMINOT": KEY FACTORS AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION STRATEGIES

The purpose of this research article is to analyze the key factors influencing the financial sustainability and
operational efficiency of JSC “Hududgaztaminot”, the national gas distribution operator of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
Employing a mixed-methods approach that integrates financial ratio analysis, comparative benchmarking, and expert
assessment, the study systematically evaluates the company’s performance across the 2020–2024 period. The article
proposes an integrated analytical framework encompassing three dimensions: infrastructure modernization, digital
transformation, and financial governance reform. The findings reveal that the deployment of 2.1 million smart meters, the
transition to online contract management, and tariff liberalization have significantly improved revenue collection efficiency
and reduced commercial gas losses. The practical significance lies in formulating evidence-based recommendations
for enhancing the financial resilience of state-owned gas distribution enterprises operating under conditions of market
transition and energy sector reform.