BIBAI, Hokkaido -- The production of chalk has entered its peak season at a factory in Bibai, Hokkaido, just as a new school year has kicked off.
This low-dust chalk, produced by Nihon Rikagaku Industry Co., is made chiefly from calcium carbonate and Hokkaido scallop shells and delivers smooth, clear writing. At the factory, workers were seen skillfully packaging the chalk, which had been processed and dried via machines.
"During last year's series of school closures, we saw a drop in order volume. But so far this year, it seems we've returned to business as usual," said Kazuhito Nishikawa, head of the factory.
At this time of the year, when orders from schools and other facilities increase, the factory can turn out over 200,000 pieces of chalk every day. The production peak is expected to continue through the end of this month. This year, about 40 million pieces are scheduled to be shipped not only across the nation but also to other countries such as the United States, China and South Korea.
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