ANALYSIS OF THE CURRENT CASHLESS PAYMENT INFRASTRUCTURE IN UZBEKISTAN

Abstract:

The global transition toward cashless economies has accelerated in recent years, with digital payment systems reshaping the landscape of financial services. In Uzbekistan, efforts to modernize the national payment infrastructure are being implemented as part of a broader economic reform and digital transformation strategy. This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the current state of cashless payment systems in Uzbekistan, evaluating institutional frameworks, technological infrastructure, financial inclusion, consumer behavior, and the regulatory environment. Drawing on comparative models, particularly China's experience, the study identifies systemic strengths and critical gaps in the Uzbek payment ecosystem. Using both qualitative and quantitative methodologies—including policy review, statistical analysis, and expert interviews—this research highlights challenges such as low rural penetration, fragmented platform interoperability, and weak trust in digital finance. The article concludes with a set of policy recommendations to strengthen the resilience, inclusiveness, and efficiency of Uzbekistan’s cashless payment infrastructure, offering a valuable contribution to the discourse on digital financial development in emerging markets.

Keywords: Uzbekistan, cashless payments, digital finance, financial inclusion, fintech, payment systems, infrastructure, mobile banking, QR payments, policy analysis.