THE ROLE OF THE SERVICE SECTOR IN UZBEKISTAN'S SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: IMPLICATIONS FOR HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AND CONSUMPTION PATTERNS

This study investigates the role of the service sector in Uzbekistan amid its socio-economic development and transition toward a post-industrial society. The research identifies the sector’s contribution to GDP, employment, household consumption, and its impact on the Human Development Index (HDI). Findings reveal that although Uzbekistan’s service sector is expanding, it lags behind developed countries in income generation, consumption patterns, and overall HDI growth. The article underscores the importance of accelerating service sector development and increasing household incomes to enhance living standards and achieve sustainable socio-economic progress.