This study assesses the readiness of Uzbekistan’s national statistical system to implement the United Nations Measuring the Sustainability of Tourism (MST) framework. The research applies a two-stage methodology, including a gap analysis of official environmental statistics and a proxy-based estimation of energy intensity using sectoral data (NACE Rev. 2). The findings reveal significant statistical limitations, particularly the inability to disaggregate tourism-related environmental impacts from aggregated national data. Empirical results indicate elevated energy intensity in accommodation (4.85%) and especially in arts, entertainment, and recreation (5.66%), with a strong dependence on electricity, highlighting hidden resource pressures beyond transport. The study identifies structural inefficiencies and “distributed environmental responsibility” within the tourism value chain. It proposes a stepwise implementation roadmap based on administrative reforms, digital integration via the E-mehmon platform, and economic incentives. The conclusion emphasizes that without MST adoption, tourism growth risks generating unmonitored environmental costs, undermining long-term sustainability.
Ismatillayeva et al. (2026) studied this question.