Radio and print media struggle in Uzbekistan’s evolving media environment

In the past eight years, Uzbekistan has witnessed a significant decline in the number of newspapers, dropping by 15%, with the total count decreasing from 691 to 600. Additionally, the number of radio stations has also declined, falling from 35 to 29. These statistics were shared by Asadjon Khojaev, the director of the Agency for Information and Mass Communications (AIMC), during a session of the International Partnership Initiatives Week, held on October 19 in Tashkent.

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Despite the decrease in traditional print media, the overall media landscape in Uzbekistan has seen an increase in other forms of media. From 2016 to 2024, the number of registered media outlets rose from 1,514 to 2,349, with magazines increasing from 309 to 866, television channels from 65 to 89, and internet publications skyrocketing from 395 to 738.

Khojaev noted that during this period, six new information agencies have commenced operations, and the number of active bloggers has surged from 50 to 1,200. However, he attributed the decline in newspapers and radio stations to the inability of traditional print media to compete in an evolving landscape where digital technology plays a central role in information dissemination.

According to Khojaev, many print publications previously relied heavily on government subsidies and contracts for their operation. Now, with advancements in digital technology, the cost of processing and delivering information has decreased significantly. "The expenses associated with printing newspapers — paper, ink, and other materials — add up. But with a computer, you can continually update information throughout the year, which lowers the costs for electronic publications," he explained.

Khojaev emphasized that although there is still a dedicated audience for print media, a shift towards electronic formats is inevitable. He stated, "Newspapers and magazines have their readers who will remain to some extent, but overall, print publications will continue to decline as this is a global trend."

In the current media environment, Uzbek radio stations are increasingly competing with modern media formats. Khojaev pointed out that streaming services require minimal resources, which gives an edge to online publications. "Today, you only need a simple phone for streaming. You can broadcast live or edit content using a mobile device or tablet, often done by a single individual. However, radio will not disappear entirely," he added.

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