PROSPECTS FOR FURTHER IMPROVEMENT OF COMMERCIAL BANKS' LENDING PRACTICES FOR ENTREPRENEURIAL ACTIVITIES

This article analyses the quantitative and qualitative indicators of lending to entrepreneurial activities by commercial banks in Uzbekistan, the distribution of credit resources across sectors and regions, and challenges related to banking risk management. Drawing on data from the Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan for 2025–2026, the study examines the composition of the loan portfolio, non-performing loans, and deposit resources. An approach to assessing lending effectiveness is proposed based on the criteria of financial accessibility, loan portfolio quality, and tangible economic outcomes. Opportunities to differentiate loan products for women entrepreneurs and across mahallas (local communities) are also discussed, using the lending practices of Aloqabank JSC as an example. The findings indicate that an increase in lending volumes should be assessed alongside improvements in the performance of businesses receiving loans rather than being considered an independent measure of lending effectiveness.