Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — At its seventh plenary session, the Senate of the Oliy Majlis reviewed information presented by the Ministry of Economy and Finance on ongoing efforts to develop the services sector across Uzbekistan’s regions.

It was reported that in January–March 2025, the volume of market services in Uzbekistan reached 210.8 trillion soums, reflecting a 12.6% increase compared to the same period last year. The highest growth rates were observed in Tashkent (116.9%), Samarkand (114.0%), and Navoi (113.1%) regions.

During the first quarter, 5,200 new retail service facilities were launched in the regions, along with 1,400 in household services, 738 in the tourism sector, 730 in education and healthcare, and over 3,600 in other areas. These developments led to the creation of more than 23,300 jobs.

In the transportation sector, 36,200 public transport routes were established across 3,708 directions, providing more than 333,000 passenger services.

Uzbekistan welcomed 2.1 million foreign tourists during the reporting period, with the total volume of tourism services reaching USD 927 million. Additionally, under the "Travel in Uzbekistan!" program, 2.3 million domestic trips were recorded, contributing to the creation of 1,800 new jobs in tourism and related sectors.

Despite these achievements, senators highlighted several persisting issues. These include declining growth rates in areas such as leasing, education, personal services, and trade, as well as the continued prevalence of the shadow economy.

Concerns were also raised regarding the presence of formally registered but inactive businesses, and shortcomings in employment programs in the services sector — particularly in Bukhara, Namangan, Surkhandarya, Syrdarya regions, and the city of Tashkent.

As a result of the discussions, tasks were outlined to more effectively leverage the regional potential of the services sector, ensure stable growth through diversification and quality improvement, and enhance formal employment and workforce accounting systems in this sector.

The Senate adopted a corresponding resolution based on the outcomes of the discussion.