THE SHARE OF MOUNTAIN TOURISM IN THE TOURISM SECTOR OF UZBEKISTAN

The purpose of this study is to analyze the dynamics of the development of the tourism sector in Uzbekistan and the main factors affecting it using a correlation matrix. The study examined the level of interdependence between factors such as tourism revenues, employment, investment, infrastructure, natural disasters and political instability. The results showed that there is a strong positive correlation between tourism revenues and employment, which confirms that the development of the tourism sector serves to create new jobs and increase employment. It was also found that investment in tourism infrastructure is closely related to tourism revenues, and through infrastructure development, it is possible to increase the flow of tourists. The study also showed that natural disasters and political instability have a negative impact on tourism and that serious attention should be paid to security and stability issues. In addition, the low correlation between GDP growth and tourism revenues means that tourism should not be considered as the main driver of economic growth. The results of this study highlight the need to focus on the following strategic areas for the development of the tourism sector in Uzbekistan:  Development and modernization of tourism infrastructure;  Training of qualified personnel and creation of jobs in the tourism sector;  Reducing the risk of natural disasters and political instability;  Diversification of tourism and creation of new tourism products;  Development of international cooperation and popularization of tourism. By implementing these measures, it is possible to turn Uzbekistan into an attractive tourist destination on a global scale and increase the contribution of tourism to economic and social development.