Starting off in 1921, Takeuchi Mining Industry has grown into the Japanese multinational giant Komatsu, known around the world for high-quality construction, mining, forestry and military equipment. Based in Tokyo, the company has operations in Europe, Asia and the Americas.
Operating in Chile since 1999, Komatsu Cummins Chile Ltda. has more than 7,400 employees and accounts for 70 percent of consolidated sales in Latin America. In 2010, the company set up Komatsu Holdings South America in Santiago to act as the regional headquarters and increase efficiency through sales of heavy machinery.
Today, it is still undergoing a corporate restructuring since the acquisition of Komatsu Mining Corp. and Komatsu Mining Global in 2017. Overseeing these expansive operations is Yasushi Sakano, president of Komatsu Holdings South America and Komatsu Cummins Chile, which services mainly the mining industry through distribution, services and spare parts.
“We already have 20 years of history in the country. Every day, we are supporting customers. I believe that we are growing together. Without Komatsu, mining operations would be difficult. We would like to be an indispensable partner to our suppliers and customers,” Sakano said.
With sustained success, the company recognizes its responsibility of giving back to the local community. Unique to Komatsu Chile is its initiative and commitment to help in solving social problems, which includes the development of a program to train juvenile offenders.
“This is our commitment to the country: to have good relationships with communities and directly give them opportunities for employment,” Sakano said.