WNAM REPORT: It is no secret that the large-scale reforms implemented in Uzbekistan in recent years have ushered in a new stage in the country’s economic, social, and institutional development.
However, the expansion of society’s needs, global economic, technological and geopolitical changes, the acceleration of the transition to the “green” and digital economy, and the strengthening of international competition require a regular review of the development strategies of countries.
Uzbekistan’s practical experience over the past eight to nine years shows that, while some goals have been achieved, it is more important than ever to more clearly define goals, deadlines, and responsibilities in strategic planning. From this perspective, improving the “Uzbekistan – 2030” strategy is seen as an important step towards bringing the country’s development to a qualitatively new level.
In particular, the updated draft of the “Uzbekistan-2030” strategy, which was submitted for public discussion, sets even higher targets for economic growth. In particular, the goal of increasing the volume of gross domestic product from the currently set $160 billion to $240 billion indicates a significant increase in the production potential and competitiveness of the country’s economy.
At the same time, the planned increase in per capita income from $4,000 to $5,800 demonstrates that human interests are at the center of reforms. This indicator is also an important factor in strengthening the quality of life, purchasing power, and social stability of the population.
In addition, the draft Strategy also pays special attention to environmental issues, which further increases its relevance. The plan to increase the share of renewable energy sources from the currently set 40 percent to 54 percent demonstrates Uzbekistan’s firm policy towards the transition to a “green economy.”
Also, it is planned to increase the number of seedlings planted annually by enterprises with a high impact on the environment from 30 million to 50 million trees, to protect the land from erosion and sand migration, to increase the size of surrounding tree groves from 26,200 hectares to 30,055 hectares, and to increase the volume of tree and shrub seeds from 840 tons to 1,500 tons. These measures serve to maintain ecological balance, mitigate the effects of climate change, and create a healthy living environment for the population.
Another important change in the strategy is the full digitization of public administration and proactive provision of services. In particular, 100 percent implementation of the “People’s Control” portal in all regions is planned through the Strategy.
In addition, it is planned to increase the number of composite and proactive public services from 40 to 400, and the total number of public services provided from 300 to 500. It is planned to formalize 100% of all documents received by the governor and his deputies through the electronic system “E-Qaror”. These measures will serve to reduce unnecessary bureaucratic barriers for the population and entrepreneurs, and to strengthen transparency and accountability.
Another important point is that the updated strategy also pays special attention to bringing practical cooperation in the Central Asian region to a qualitatively new level. According to it, it is aimed to reach agreements with at least 3 countries on the free movement of citizens based on ID cards. This will reduce the obstacles for citizens related to passports and visas.
Increasing trade with Central Asian countries to $15 billion will strengthen economic integration in the region and contribute to the development of trade, logistics, and cooperation.
In conclusion, these changes to the Uzbekistan 2030 Strategy are all the more significant because they are aimed at updating the country’s development in line with the real situation, global trends, and societal needs. This approach, based on clear goals, measurable indicators, and enhanced accountability, will serve to increase the effectiveness of reforms.
