On June 9 and 10, the Pearl Farming Council adopted major strategic directions for the future of the pearl industry in French Polynesia. These measures aim to strengthen the sector’s sustainability while addressing environmental and socio-economic challenges.
1. Preservation of Lagoons
A key focus of the council was the protection of lagoons, which are vital to the long-term viability of pearl farming. Waste management was a central topic. The Marine Resources Directorate (DRM) has launched a tender to continue repatriating waste from the Tuamotu-Gambier islands (13 islands involved) over the next three years, reducing marine pollution. This initiative builds on previous efforts and seeks to stabilize the situation while improving control over waste generated by the pearl industry.
An upcoming regulatory project will require producers to develop individual waste management plans, encouraging greater commitment to environmentally responsible practices. The use of compostable materials will also be promoted to minimize the industry’s ecological footprint.
2. Promoting Local Employment
One of the strategic priorities is boosting local employment within pearl farms through concrete actions:
- Training local grafters: The Polynesian Center for Maritime Professions (CMMPF) will launch a specialized pearl oyster grafting course in October. The program, designed for about a dozen workers with experience in pearl farms, includes one month of theory in Rangiroa and five months of on-site training at farms. This initiative aims to enhance local expertise and gradually reduce reliance on foreign labor.
- Minimum activity criteria: The Council introduced a minimum activity threshold for pearl farms, requiring production of at least 200 pearls per hectare over two years and a minimum number of employees. Farms failing to meet these standards risk losing their maritime concessions and public domain permits, with penalties including revocation of producer status after two years of inactivity.
3. Management of Maritime Concessions and Operations
A significant reform was adopted regarding maritime concessions. To ensure sustainable and serious operations, the Council decided to withdraw—or even cancel—public domain permits from inactive farms after two years (or four years for first-time applicants). Farms must maintain a baseline level of activity, including oyster grafting, pearl production, and sales, to retain their concessions.
4. Strengthening Sales Strategies
A new sales strategy is being developed to better promote Polynesian pearls in international markets. While details are yet to be released, the approach will likely emphasize innovation, product quality, and traceability.
Conclusion
These decisions aim to enhance the pearl industry’s sustainability by balancing environmental preservation, economic development, and local employment. Training local grafters and setting minimum activity criteria reflect the government’s commitment to securing the sector’s future while creating opportunities for local professionals. Monitoring the impact of these measures on the Tahitian pearl industry in the coming years will be crucial.
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