SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISE LENDING SYSTEM IN THE REPUBLIC OF UZBEKISTAN: CURRENT STATE AND IMPROVEMENT PATHWAYS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17422839Keywords:
SME lending, financial inclusion, credit access, microfinance, credit guarantee schemesAbstract
This article examines the current state of small and medium enterprise (SME) lending in the Republic of Uzbekistan and identifies pathways for system improvement. The analysis reveals that despite government reforms and institutional support mechanisms, SMEs continue to face substantial barriers in accessing credit, including high collateral requirements, elevated interest rates, and limited financial literacy among entrepreneurs.
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