THE DIGITAL GATEWAY: HARNESSING FINTECH FOR SME DEVELOPMENT IN UZBEKISTAN'S TRANSITION ECONOMY
Keywords:
Key Words: Digital Finance, FinTech, Uzbekistan, SME, Entrepreneurship, Financial Inclusion, Transition Economy, Collateral, Digital Literacy, Super Apps.Abstract
Annotation: The article examines the influence of digital financing on
entrepreneurship and SME development in Uzbekistan’s evolving digital economy. It
highlights how initiatives such as the “Digital Uzbekistan 2030” Strategy and the rise
of super-app platforms have expanded financial inclusion and accelerated cashless
transactions. At the same time, the study notes ongoing barriers to SME growth,
including strict collateral requirements, limited financial literacy, cyber risks, and rural
connectivity gaps. The paper emphasizes the need to strengthen alternative financing
regulations and invest in digital skills and security to support inclusive economic
development.
References
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