Anadolu Isuzu Acquires 75.2% Stake in Uzbek SamAuto for $80 Million, Plans Major Investment

Anadolu Isuzu Finalizes SamAuto Acquisition

Turkish commercial vehicle brand Anadolu Isuzu, a part of the Anadolu Group, has officially agreed to acquire a 75.2% state-owned stake in the Uzbek company SamAuto LLC (Samarkand Auto Plant). The acquisition is valued at US$80 million, with an additional commitment of an equivalent investment amount. This significant transaction, announced on September 30, 2025, marks a strategic expansion for Anadolu Isuzu into Central Asian markets.

Details of the Transaction and Investment Commitments

The agreement for the US$80 million purchase of the majority stake in SamAuto was facilitated with the Agency for Management of State Assets (AMSA) of Uzbekistan. Financial advisory services for AMSA were provided by KPMG, with legal support from Dentons. The valuation was also assessed by PwC, aligning with Anadolu Isuzu's offer. The deal's completion is contingent upon approval from Turkish regulatory authorities.

Beyond the acquisition price, Anadolu Isuzu has pledged an additional US$80 million in investment commitments. These plans include:

• Establishing the production of large-capacity buses and electric buses (12-18 meters) within Uzbekistan.
• Creating a network of licensed service centers across the country.
• Expanding export operations for products to key regions, including Central Asia, the South Caucasus, the Middle East, and Africa.

Strategic Expansion and Market Integration

This acquisition is a cornerstone of Anadolu Isuzu's long-term strategy to strengthen its international presence and expand its production and distribution network in Central Asia. The company, which currently exports vehicles to over 45 countries, aims to integrate SamAuto's manufacturing capabilities into its own product lineup. This will involve adding certain models produced at SamAuto's facilities to Anadolu Isuzu's portfolio, while also manufacturing some Anadolu Isuzu models at the Samarkand plant.

SamAuto, based in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, has a history dating back to 1996, initially as a joint venture with Turkey's Koc Holding. It produces a range of commercial vehicles, including buses, pickup trucks, and specialized vehicles, and has maintained a long-standing partnership with Japan's Isuzu Motors and Itochu Corporation, which each hold a 12.4% stake in the company.

Outlook for Regional Growth

The acquisition is set to enhance efficiency, diversify product offerings, and provide direct access to high-potential markets in the region. Anadolu Isuzu's General Manager, Tugrul Arikan, highlighted the investment as a significant step in reinforcing the company's global footprint, aiming to represent 'Türkiye's engineering and industrial' prowess in new territories.