MICRO-ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND ECONOMIC RESILIENCE IN POST-PANDEMIC UZBEKISTAN: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Abstract

This paper examines how micro-entrepreneurs in post-pandemic Uzbekistan adapt to
institutional voids, limited financial access, and gendered constraints. Based on eight in-depth
interviews, the study identifies key challenges and highlights strategies such as digital adoption,
informal collaboration, and market repositioning. While these reflect entrepreneurial resilience,
systemic barriers limit sustainable growth. The findings offer insights into entrepreneurship in
transitional economies and call for integrated policy reforms to enable inclusive recovery.