Shibaura (IHI Shibaura Machinery Corporation): Nurturing Agricultural Excellence in Japan

IHI Shibaura Machinery Corporation, also known as Shibaura, stands as a prominent Japanese agricultural machinery manufacturer under the ownership of IHI Corporation. With its headquarters located in Toyosu, Koto-ku, Tokyo, Japan, the company has left a significant mark as one of Japan’s premier providers of small tractors and diesel engines.

Cultivating a Legacy

Shibaura’s roots date back to 1942 when it first ventured into the realm of engine and tractor production. By 1951, the company had firmly established itself in this sector. In a notable collaboration in 1973, Shibaura partnered with Ford to create the Ford 1000, a small tractor crafted to Ford’s specifications and styling. This partnership extended to include other Ford tractor models such as the Ford 1600 and 2110. Remarkably, even after Ford’s acquisition of New Holland, Shibaura continued to manufacture small tractors. The company’s commitment to diversification also led to the production of Yanmar tractors and STIHL power tools.

Powering Growth Through Joint Ventures

In its pursuit of excellence, Shibaura has entered into joint ventures to further enhance its offerings. One such venture, Perkins Shibaura Engines, was established in October 1994 and commenced operations in 1996. This partnership enabled the production of a range of engines, with a focus on the Perkins 100 Series engine initially, expanding to include the Perkins 400 Series engine from 2001.

This spirit of collaboration extends to multiple countries, with the joint venture company operating manufacturing sites in the United Kingdom, the United States, and China. The global reach and diversified product offerings have contributed to Shibaura’s international recognition, including being awarded The Queen’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade (Export) in 2005.

Manufacturing Excellence

Shibaura’s commitment to delivering top-tier agricultural machinery is reflected in its manufacturing prowess. The company boasts three manufacturing facilities in Japan, with its primary 35-acre factory situated in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, at the heart of Japan.

With a legacy spanning nearly eight decades, Shibaura remains dedicated to innovation, quality, and service excellence in the agricultural machinery industry. Its tractors, diesel engines, and ozone sterilizers continue to support farmers and agricultural professionals worldwide.