STRENGTHENING LIABILITIES ACCOUNTING AND AUDIT ANALYTICS IN UZBEK ENTERPRISES: A DIGITAL AND REGULATORY ROADMAP FOR FINANCIAL TRANSPARENCY

Abstract

Accurate accounting for liabilities and robust audit analytics are foundational to financial stability, investor trust, and regulatory compliance–especially during Uzbekistan’s ongoing transition to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Yet many Uzbek enterprises, particularly SMEs, continue to underreport, misclassify, or inadequately disclose liabilities such as provisions, contingent obligations, lease commitments, and deferred tax. This study investigates how modernizing liabilities accounting–supported by data-driven audit analytics–can enhance financial integrity in Uzbekistan. Through a mixed-methods approach involving financial statement analysis (n=30), case studies of 8 enterprises, and expert interviews with auditors, regulators, and CFOs, the research identifies critical gaps: reliance on cash-based recognition, poor estimation of provisions (e.g., warranties, environmental cleanup), and limited use of analytics in audit procedures. Findings reveal that firms adopting IFRS-compliant liabilities accounting and AI-assisted audit tools reduced misstatement risks by 40–60% and improved debt covenant compliance. The study proposes a national framework integrating regulatory updates, digital audit toolkits, and professional capacity building. The results offer practical pathways for Uzbek enterprises to align with global standards while strengthening internal controls and market credibility.