10-07-202656
In the context of contemporary economic reforms, supporting the tourism industry and enhancing the country's tourism potential are integral components of sustainable development. Uzbekistan is placing particular emphasis on creating a favourable environment for foreign visitors and aligning the sector with modern requirements. This, in turn, plays a significant role in regional development and in ensuring economic stability.
The indicators recorded in the first two months of 2026 in this domain deserve special attention. According to statistical data, 1.77 million foreign tourists visited the country during January–February of the current year. This figure represents an increase of 441,000 visitors, or 33%, compared to the same period last year, clearly confirming the positive dynamics within the sector. Such a sharp rise in tourist arrivals is not merely a statistical outcome, but a tangible reflection of the openness policy being implemented in the country.
It should also be noted that the primary flow of tourists continues to be driven by neighbouring states. Leading in terms of the number of visits are:
Kyrgyzstan (521,000), Tajikistan (469,000), and Kazakhstan (386,000).
At the same time, the inclusion in the top ten of such countries as Russia, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, China, Turkey, India, and the Republic of Korea indicates the expanding international tourist appeal of Uzbekistan.
As experts emphasise, sustainable growth in the tourism sector is not limited to increasing visitor numbers alone. Of critical importance in this process are the creation of new employment opportunities, aligning service quality with international standards, and improving regional infrastructure. These opportunities are fully consistent with the objective of "Decent Work and Economic Growth" set forth under Sustainable Development Goal 8. Within the framework of this goal, promoting sustainable tourism, generating new employment prospects, and broadly advocating for local culture and products serve as a solid foundation for economic advancement.
In conclusion, the systematic development of the tourism sector is not merely a matter of economic indicators, but one of the key drivers of the country's overall progress. For in a society with high tourism potential and strong international cooperation, the prospects for achieving sustainable development are steadily enhanced.
Madinabonu Sharifova, Chief Specialist, Centre for Sustainable Development