[Hyogo]
match

match

Number one in match production in Japan: Hyogo Prefecture

Match production began in Tokyo in 1875, and once the domestic market demand was met, it became an export-oriented industry, with manufacturers concentrating in the Osaka and Kobe areas, which were favourable for trade. Hyogo Prefecture became the centre of production thank to an abundant labour force, favourable weather conditions with many sunny days, and exports by Chinese businesses in Kobe. Production gradually shifted west from Kobe, and currently there are two companies in Himeji and one in Okayama that have automatic match-making machines. Hyogo Prefecture has an 80% share of the domestic market, and 10% of production is exported from Kobe Port, mainly to the United States.

• Hyogo Matches
• TRUNK DESIGN

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