Istanbul: Turkish modular construction company Karmod plans to establish a new operations center in the US in 2026 as it seeks to expand exports amid rising global demand and shifting trade dynamics.
According to Anadolu Agency, Karmod's General Manager Ensar Cankaya stated that the ongoing trade war with China has bolstered confidence in Trkiye within the US market, positively impacting demand. "We have a major investment project planned for the US in 2026," Cankaya revealed.
Karmod, which operates in 135 countries, accelerated its activities in the second quarter of 2025 as global demand strengthened. The company aims to further expand its export capacity next year, having already increased exports to Europe, North Africa, and Central Asia. Plans are underway to shift a larger share of shipments to the US, Kazakhstan, and Russia.
The company recorded its strongest growth this year in Central Africa, driven by rising demand for housing and schools. Cankaya noted that high-capacity manufacturers are increasingly meeting large-scale housing needs as demand for fast, disaster-ready construction grows. "In Africa, housing and school demand has surged. In the US, disaster housing sensitivity has increased. Our products can be delivered quickly after earthquakes, hurricanes, or tsunamis, which is driving demand," he said.
Karmod produces a variety of structures, including prefabricated, steel, and container structures, as well as cabins, plastic and composite products, water tanks, and security units. The company is actively involved in construction for the mining, education, and healthcare sectors, including schools, offices, and worksite buildings.
Demand for prefabricated steel housing rose sharply in 2025 as customers sought faster, more sustainable, and carbon-efficient construction. "European buyers in particular are placing greater emphasis on certified quality standards and advanced production technologies," Cankaya added.
Karmod plans to introduce a 'third-generation container series' next year, allowing modular building blocks to be assembled and relocated without the need for traditional installation. "These containers will function like movable Lego blocks. They can be lifted and relocated without assembly. We have already adjusted our production system accordingly," Cankaya explained.
The company also plans new launches in steel housing, focusing on modern design, improved insulation, and higher aesthetic standards. Engineering and technical teams have completed development work.
To meet rising demand, Karmod has completed the construction of a new manufacturing facility in the Orhanli industrial zone of Tuzla, near Istanbul. Relocation is expected to begin by the end of the year. The new plant will boost capacity, especially in composite and plastic products. Cankaya emphasized the company's prioritization of domestic investment to strengthen production lines and expand employment.
Karmod is also investing in digitalization and automation, including an artificial intelligence-supported measurement and analytics system integrated with its enterprise resource planning platform to identify production bottlenecks and improve efficiency.