Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Akfa Group, one of Uzbekistan’s leading industrial conglomerates, has officially begun construction of a large-scale manufacturing facility in Kentucky, in collaboration with a Turkish partner. The new U.S. factory represents a major step in Akfa’s international expansion strategy and a substantial investment in North American manufacturing.
The announcement was made by Akfa Group founder Jahongir Artykhojaev during an interview on the “Menimcha” program aired on Uzbekistan 24 TV channel.
“We have started building a plant that will manufacture aluminum products, car parts, solar panel components, and windows. In the first year, it will attract US$105 million in investment. Overall, the total investment in the factory in the U.S. will amount to US$600 million,” said Artykhojaev.
The project marks Akfa Group’s first major manufacturing complex outside Uzbekistan and underscores its growing ambition to become a global player in industrial manufacturing and renewable energy component production. The company, known for its diverse portfolio spanning construction materials, engineering systems, and advanced industrial technologies, is positioning itself as a strategic supplier to both American and international markets.
Located in Kentucky—a state with a robust automotive and energy manufacturing base—the facility will be designed to produce aluminum profiles, automotive components, solar panel parts, and energy-efficient window systems. This product range aligns with Akfa’s broader sustainability initiatives and reflects growing global demand for lightweight and environmentally responsible materials.
The $600 million project will be developed in multiple phases. The first phase, backed by an initial $105 million investment, will include construction of production buildings, installation of advanced European machinery, and establishment of logistics and supply chain infrastructure.
In addition to manufacturing, the project is expected to create hundreds of skilled jobs in Kentucky, contributing to the region’s industrial development and supporting local suppliers. The factory’s operations will also help facilitate technology transfer and cross-border industrial collaboration between Uzbekistan, Turkey, and the United States.
Artykhojaev emphasized that Akfa’s entry into the U.S. market is part of a larger strategy to diversify production and enhance global competitiveness, particularly in renewable energy and automotive supply chains. The company plans to integrate smart manufacturing systems and sustainable production practices in line with international environmental standards.
Industry analysts see the move as a milestone for Uzbekistan’s private sector, signaling increasing confidence among Central Asian enterprises to invest in advanced manufacturing overseas. For Kentucky, the project further strengthens its status as a magnet for foreign direct investment in the manufacturing sector.
Once operational, the factory will supply high-value components to major manufacturers in North America while serving as a launchpad for future Akfa Group expansions across the region.
Originally reported by UZ Daily.
