DYNAMICS OF GROSS REGIONAL PRODUCT AS AN INDICATOR OF DEEPENING TERRITORIAL DISPARITIES IN THE REPUBLIC OF UZBEKISTAN

Abstract

The article presents a comprehensive analysis of the dynamics of gross regional product and GRP per capita across the regions of the Republic of Uzbekistan for the period 2010–2024. Based on statistical data, stable trends towards deepening territorial differentiation have been identified: the coefficient of variation of GRP per capita increased from 42.9% to 70.7%, exceeding the critical threshold of 50% established by international organizations. The gap between the most and least developed regions grew from 3.0 to 5.8 times. A periodization of regional polarization processes has been established, including three waves: moderate trajectory divergence (2010–2016), the beginning of active polarization during the reform period (2017–2020), and a sharp intensification of disparities (2021–2024). Regional clustering by the level of socio-economic development was conducted, identifying three groups: highly developed (Tashkent city and Navoi region), moderately developed (eight regions), and underdeveloped (four regions). The analysis showed that during the study period, not a single case of a region transitioning from one cluster to another was recorded, indicating the structural nature of regional disparities. The research results indicate the need for a radical revision of approaches to regional policy and the development of a comprehensive concept of territorial development.