International Experience in the Development of Small Industrial Zones and the Opportunities for Its Application in Uzbekistan

Small industrial zones have become a standard instrument of regional industrial policy in economies that seek to raise the productive capacity of small and medium enterprises outside large cities. This study compares the institutional models of small industrial zone and industrial complex development in China, the Republic of Korea and Turkey and evaluates which elements can be applied to strengthen the small industrial zones of Uzbekistan, with particular attention to Fergana region. The research uses comparative institutional analysis, structural grouping and comparative statistical analysis of data drawn from World Bank and UNCTAD publications, national industrial agencies and the statistical and legal databases of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The comparison shows that the effectiveness of small industrial zones depends on three recurring features: the provision of ready to use production premises, a financing mechanism that ties local government revenue to the performance of resident firms, and shared services such as testing, standards and skills training. As of 1 January 2024 Uzbekistan operated 532 small industrial zones within a network of 766 industrial zones, yet the national model emphasises land allocation more than built premises, revenue linked financing and post entry services. The study concludes that introducing standardised production premises and shared innovation services within the specialised zones planned for Fergana region would help convert the quantitative expansion of small industrial zones into sustained gains in output, employment and exports.