Japanese Cutting-Edge
Solutions for Metalworking
Japanese Cutting-Edge
Solutions for Metalworking
Exhibition
March 7, 2025
By: Masanobu Nishizuka, Staff Editor, SEISANZAI Japan
IMTEX 2025 Report: Part 1
As competition intensifies in India’s rapidly expanding manufacturing sector, how are Japanese machine tool builders positioning themselves? One answer is local production. With the Indian government’s “Make in India” initiative spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, manufacturers that produce domestically can benefit from tax incentives and subsidies. Even if the manufacturing company is 100% Japanese owned, locally manufactured equipment qualifies for these benefits.
DMG MORI has been producing machine tools in India since 2019, through a partnership with LMW (formerly Lakshmi Machine Works). The highlight of the company’s booth at IMTEX 2025 was the “NHX 6300 i,” a horizontal machining center that began local production in July 2024. The machine, which was displayed alongside an automatic pallet changer (APC), is targeted at machining medium to large components for industries such as construction equipment, railways and infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Makino, which established its local production base in India much earlier in 2002, showcased the “LS2,” a newly developed compact machining center. Its key feature is its small footprint, making it ideal for space-constrained workshops. At the show, Makino demonstrated the LS2 in combination with a manual pallet changer for setup efficiency. An executive from Makino’s sales division in Japan said, “Indian customers are demanding total solutions. In response, we set up a factory in 2023 to produce jigs and auxiliary equipment, which allows us to offer highly customized solutions.”
In addition to machine tools, Japanese cutting tool manufacturers also promoted their locally manufactured products. Mitsubishi Materials highlighted its India-made cutting tools, stating, “In India, we focus on producing general-purpose tools with short lead times, as well as custom-made special tools that meet local demand.”
Makino introduced its new compact LS2, with executives and interns providing explanations.
Japanese manufacturers also distinguished themselves by emphasizing high-precision and high-value-added solutions.
Okuma exhibited three models, including the “MU-6300V-L,” a five-axis machining center known for its precision. A representative from Okuma’s local subsidiary said, “The MU-6300V-L is ideal for complex parts in the semiconductor and construction machinery industries, as well as mold making. We’re targeting customers who value high quality and precision, and we see this segment growing in India.”
Star Micronics, which previously partnered with local manufacturer Cosmos for sales, established its own sales office in Bangalore in August 2024. The company is now targeting the medical device industry. Fumio Masuda, Senior Executive Officer, explained, “India has a population of over 1.4 billion. While not everyone can afford advanced medical care, even the top 10% represents a market larger than the entire population of Japan. Also, there have been more cases of European medical equipment manufacturers sourcing parts from India.”
Okamoto Machine Tool Works focuses on three sectors in India: molds, ultra-precision machining, and semiconductor-related. President & CEO Tsuneyuki Ishii said, “After China, India is our next key market. Our accuracy and ease of use have been well received, and repeat orders are increasing.”
Some Japanese companies have been operating in India for decades. SHIN NIPPON KOKI (SNK) has been supplying machines to Indian manufacturers since 1986, when it supplied a gate-type milling machine to LMW. President and COO Akira Nakanishi said, “Our high-rigidity, durable gantry machines are recognized as a trusted brand in India. Our service and support is comprehensive – many of our first installed machines are still running today. We remain committed to contributing to India’s industrial growth.
As India’s manufacturing sector becomes more sophisticated, the demand for precision measuring equipment increases.”
Mitutoyo exhibited coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) and various digital measuring instruments. A local representative noted, “The IT and semiconductor sectors in India are growing at an extraordinary rate.” At IMTEX 2025, Mitutoyo highlighted the White Light Interferometry (WLI) Unit, an optical measurement attachment for vision measuring machines that enables high-speed 3D dimensional measurement of semiconductor components.
Okuma showcased its 5-axis machining center, MU-6300V-L.
Japanese trading companies specializing in machine tools and equipment also used IMTEX 2025 to showcase their expanded product offerings and strengthened support networks.
Yamazen, known in India for its diverse product portfolio, reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing its service capabilities. Company President & CEO Koji Kishida visited the exhibition to emphasize the company’s commitment to expanding after-sales support. The company executive officer of sales division, added, “We are building a service network that can compete with machine manufacturers. As a trading company, our strength lies in offering a wide range of solutions tailored to customers’ needs.”
Marubeni established Marubeni Machinery & Solutions India in January 2025 to handle sales and service for Citizen Machinery and Brother Industries products. An office with a showroom is scheduled to open in April. President Masashi Hiroshige said, “These two brands are known for delivering ‘Japanese quality’ products rather than low-cost models. By promoting high value-added machine tools, we aim to contribute to the development of India’s manufacturing sector.”
Miyakawa Industry, a Gifu-based manufacturer specializing in spindles, multi-axis attachments, and special machines for bridge and shipbuilding, has been operating in India since 2012 through its local subsidiary, Miyakawa Industry India. The company works with Arhan Technologies, a local trading partner responsible for machine deliveries and after-sales service. Sudesh Rokade, President of Arhan Technologies, said, “We have been dealing with high-quality Japanese machines and equipment and trying to help Indian customers understand their value.”
Despite the strong business potential, Japanese manufacturers have expressed concerns about cultural and business differences. But Kenichi Yoshikawa, director of OSG India, who has extensive experience in the country, offered a different perspective. “If you focus on challenges like business practices or living conditions, the list of concerns is endless. But India has enormous potential that outweighs these issues. The market has a lot of room to grow.” The enthusiasm at IMTEX 2025 was a testament to this sentiment.
DMG MORI showcased its locally produced horizontal machining center, NHX 6300 i.
Star Micronics presented the SD-26 typeE sliding headstock automatic lathe.
Okamoto Machine Tool Works President & CEO Tsuneyuki Ishii highlighted the MAX350UN-OD, produced in Singapore.
Shogo Nakamura, President of Nakamura-Tome Precision Industry (center), delivered a well-received presentation in India.
SNK President Akira Nakanishi standing before a booth decorated to highlight the company’s strong ties with India.
Yamazen reaffirmed its commitment to expanding its service network in India.
October 8, 2024
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