ECONOMIC ASPECTS OF TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN THE TURKESTAN REGION: EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE
Keywords:
tourism, regional development, economic efficiency, employment, investment attractiveness, state support, infrastructure, Turkestan region, survey research, tourism-led growth hypothesis.Abstract
This article examines the economic aspects of tourism development in the Turkestan region of the Republic of Kazakhstan based on empirical research findings. The relevance of the study is determined by the growing role of tourism as a driver of regional socio-economic development and the need to assess its actual economic impact at the territorial level. The aim of the research is to evaluate the influence of tourism activities on employment, business revenues, regional investment attractiveness, and the level of state support for the sector.
The study was conducted within a quantitative research framework using a survey method (N = 137). Data were analyzed through descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation analysis, and Student’s t-test. The reliability of the research instrument was confirmed by Cronbach’s alpha coefficient (0.81).
The findings indicate predominantly positive perceptions of tourism’s impact on employment and business income. A statistically significant positive relationship was identified between infrastructure development and perceived economic efficiency of the sector (r = 0.42; p < 0.05). Differences were also found between entrepreneurs and local residents in their evaluation of tourism’s economic impact (Cohen’s d = 0.71). Satisfaction with state support measures was assessed at a moderate level.
The study concludes that tourism contributes positively to the socio-economic development of the Turkestan region; however, its potential is not fully realized due to infrastructural and institutional constraints. The results may serve as a basis for improving regional tourism policy and designing sustainable development strategies for the sector.
