DEVELOPING SMALL ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR THROUGH REGIONAL CLUSTERS: THE CASE OF SOUTHERN REGIONS OF UZBEKISTAN
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.69891/Keywords:
regional clusters agriculture small entrepreneurship southern regions Uzbekistan climate risks subsidies export growth digital transformation Bek ClusterAbstract
This article provides a thorough and comprehensive analysis of the issues related to developing small entrepreneurship in the agricultural sector of the southern regions of the Republic of Uzbekistan (Surkhandarya, Kashkadarya) through regional clusters. Regional clusters, including Bek Cluster LLC and other agricultural projects, are examined in detail for developing small and medium enterprises (SMEs), providing subsidies, and introducing climate-resilient technologies. The research results indicate that clusters have increased small entrepreneurship activity by 20-25%, agricultural exports by 15%, and reduced informal labor and migration in the southern regions. Existing problems, such as climate risks, investment shortages, and skill deficiencies, as well as recommendations including government grants, international cooperation (UNDP, ADB), and launching AI-based monitoring systems, are presented. This approach serves to develop agriculture, strengthen regional integration, and promote digital transformation.References
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