ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF TOURIST FLOWS ON REGIONAL ECONOMIC OUTCOMES IN UZBEKISTAN AND ANALYSING LOCAL INCOMES AND ECONOMIC BENEFITS

This article examines the assessment of the impact of tourist flows on regional economic outcomes in Uzbekistan, and the way in which the economic benefits derived from tourism are generated and distributed within the local economy. An increase in the number of tourist arrivals is an important factor in regional economic development, and its contribution to local household incomes, employment, small-business activity and the value added created in the region is greatest when it is supported by strong local economic linkages. The article jointly analyses the average expenditure of tourists, the share of local enterprises, tourismrelated employment, the economic benefits retained within the region, and seasonality. The findings provide a methodological basis for developing practical recommendations aimed at improving regional tourism policy and distributing the economic benefits of tourism more widely among the local population and business entities.