THE TRANSFORMATION MODEL OF THE DIGITAL ECONOMY IN UZBEKISTAN AND THE MECHANISMS FOR ITS DEVELOPMENT: EXISTING CHALLENGES AND WAYS TO OVERCOME THEM

This article analyzes the institutional and economic foundations for the formation and deepening of the digital economy in Uzbekistan. The study proposes a multi-layered digital transformation model tailored to Uzbekistan, based on 2024 statistical data, international rankings, and best foreign practices. In 2024, the gross value added created in the information economy and e-commerce sector reached 60,219.5 billion UZS, accounting for 4.08% of GDP. At the beginning of 2024, the number of internet users reached 29.52 million, with internet penetration at 83.3%. Uzbekistan ranked 63rd in the United Nations E-Government Development Index with a score of 0.7999. The article identifies key challenges, including regional digital disparities, insufficient data exchange and interoperability, the quality of digital skills, limited private sector participation, as well as risks related to cybersecurity and data governance. Based on the experience of Estonia, South Korea, and Singapore, a transformation mechanism is proposed for Uzbekistan, built on the chain principle of “digital infrastructure – digital government – digital business – digital capital – digital trust.”