Category: General

The Polynesian pearl world has been abuzz with speculation: Is Robert Wan, the legendary “Pearl King,” making a major investment in Middle Eastern pearl farms? The truth, as revealed by Wan himself, is even more intriguing—a prestige collaboration blending heritage, royalty, and cross-cultural exchange.

An Unexpected Royal Connection

The story begins with a chance encounter during the visit of Qatar’s Queen to French Polynesia:

• The queen, captivated by Tahitian pearls, purchased several pieces
• She later approached Wan to revive Qatar’s pearl legacy
• Goal: Reestablish the Gulf’s historic natural white pearl industry (pre-oil era)

Wan’s Role: Expertise Over Investment

🔹 No financial contribution from Wan
🔹 Pure knowledge transfer: Technical guidance on farming
🔹 First harvests already show soft pink and champagne hues
🔹 Awaited: The elusive golden pearl (a potential game-changer)

Bigger Than Pearls: A Two-Way Opportunity

For Wan, this partnership is strategic:

1. Cultural Revival: Helping Qatar reclaim its pearl-diving heritage
2. Market Expansion: Showcasing Tahitian black pearls in luxury hubs like:
   • Dubai
   • Abu Dhabi
   • Doha

“This isn’t competition—it’s about expanding the global pearl narrative,” Wan emphasizes.

Why This Matters for Polynesia

• Soft power boost: Tahitian pearl expertise gains royal validation
• New luxury channels: Gulf elite as potential buyers
• Historical symmetry: Linking two pearl civilizations

Wan’s move proves that in today’s pearl trade, knowledge is the ultimate currency. As the Qatari project grows, so too does Tahiti’s influence—one cultured gem at a time.

Fun Fact: Gulf pearls once funded Qatar’s economy before oil. Now, Wan helps write their next chapter—with Polynesian know-how.

The atoll of Manihi, a historic stronghold of Polynesian pearl farming, is gearing up for revival.

A Sector in Need of Renewal

During a ministerial delegation visit, Mayor Mireille Haoatai delivered a stark assessment:

• Dramatic decline in pearl farming, from 4,000 producers at its peak to just 1,000 today
• Main challenges: maritime concession management issues

A “Produce Better” Strategy

The revitalization plan focuses on:
🔬 Scientific research: Partnering with Ifremer to:

• Improve pearl quality and consistency
• Enhance color brilliance through natural methods
  🌱 Sustainable practices: Reducing environmental impact

Government Support

• George Pau-Langevin (Overseas Minister):
  • Pledged state support for Ifremer research
  • Proposed showcasing Tahitian pearls at Paris Agricultural Show to boost public appeal
• President Edouard Fritch:
  • Called for industry reform inspired by Australia’s model (fewer, quality-focused producers)
  • Emphasized self-regulation and operator accountability

Hope for Pearl Farming’s Birthplace

Manihi—where Tahitian cultured pearls originated—now sees a path to resurgence through:
✅ Political will
✅ Scientific innovation
✅ Uncompromising quality standards

The atoll’s future may once again shine as brightly as its legendary pearls.

The strategic model proposed by consultant Gaetano Cavalieri, intended to enhance the value of Tahitian pearls, has ignited fierce debate among industry professionals. During a presentation organized by the Ministry of Marine Resources and the Maison de la Perle, sector representatives voiced strong opposition, accusing the government of attempting to seize control of the pearl ecosystem.

Aline Baldassari-Bernard, President of the Professional Pearl Producers Union (SPPP), acknowledged that while the project appears theoretically sound, it remains unworkable in Polynesia’s context. United in their resistance, industry players condemned the lack of consultation, criticizing the government’s unilateral imposition of this crisis recovery plan.

Modeled after Italy’s Parma Ham Consortium, the proposal calls for a complete restructuring of Tahitian pearl commerce by July 2013, including:

• Creation of the Tahiti Pearl Consortium (a mixed-capital purchasing center)
• Establishment of an international distribution company

However, professionals expressed concerns about:
✔ The consultation’s exorbitant costs
✔ Potential exclusion of longstanding Japanese and Chinese buyers
✔ Political encroachment on an already vulnerable industry

In protest, pearl farmers submitted an official letter to President Oscar Temaru, denouncing what they view as political interference in their commercial operations.

The Pearl and Mother-of-Pearl Trade Center (CMNP) of Rangiroa concludes the 2011/2012 academic year with an impressive 78% success rate.

This achievement stems from close collaboration between CMNP, SEFI, and pearl industry professionals.

The 21st cohort, comprising 10 pearl farming trainees, was commended for their dedication. During their first year, students completed:

• Skills refresher courses
• Professional Diving Diploma Level 1 (DPP1)
• Comprehensive pearl production training

The 20th grafting specialization cohort achieved excellent results: 7 of 9 trainees certified after four-month internships. This success reflects the commitment of private/public partners who provided practice materials. Graduates now qualify as professional grafters – a pivotal industry role.

Selection for the 22nd cohort admitted 11 new trainees through rigorous psychotechnical testing. They’ll begin with SEFI-upgrading courses before full integration at Rangiroa.

Bruno Maetz, renowned pearl farmer, attested during CMNP’s advisory council to graduates’ value-added contributions, noting their work ethic and efficiency. He plans continued recruitment from future cohorts.

CMNP Director Rosita Leduc reaffirmed the center’s mission to train skilled professionals vital to pearl farm success. Since its 1988 establishment, CMNP remains French Polynesia’s premier grafting specialization hub, strengthening sector professionalism.

Philippe Mauguin Explores Quality Control Processes & Celebrates Local Pearl Expertise

In a high-profile visit underscoring the strategic importance of French Polynesia’s pearl industry, Philippe Mauguin, France’s National Director of Fisheries, toured the Maison de la Perle and pearl quality control facilities in Paofai. Accompanied by Marine Resources Minister Temauri Foster, the delegation immersed itself in the rigorous processes that safeguard the reputation of Tahitian pearls worldwide.

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Key Moments from the Visit

1. Showcasing Polynesian Treasures

• Mauguin previewed Meherio 2024 Competition finalists—exceptional pearls representing the pinnacle of local craftsmanship.
• Observed the natural color diversity (peacock green, aubergine, silver) that makes Tahitian pearls unique.

2. Behind the Scenes: The Art of Pearl Grading

Led by Jessica Champs, Head of Sorting & Classification:
✔ 5-tier sorting system by shape, size, and surface perfection
✔ Demonstration of “mirror test” for luster evaluation

3. Science Meets Tradition in Quality Control

With Vaihere Mooria, Quality Control Manager:
🔬 X-ray verification ensuring 0.8mm minimum nacre thickness (global export standard)
📊 Digital traceability protocols to combat counterfeiting

“Your quality controls rival those of diamond certification labs,” remarked Mauguin during the tour.

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Next Stop: Rangiroa’s Pearl Training Hub

The delegation will:

• Meet students at the Nacre and Pearl Trade Center (CMNP)
• Discuss EU-funded vocational programs
• Visit working pearl farms to witness sustainable grafting techniques

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Why This Visit Matters

🌏 National Recognition: Reinforces pearls as a strategic French overseas industry
💎 Quality Assurance: Validates Polynesia’s anti-fraud measures for luxury markets
🤝 Policy Synergy: Aligns French and Polynesian efforts to boost export competitiveness

“This isn’t just about pearls—it’s about preserving an ecosystem that sustains our islands,” emphasized Minister Foster.

A fresh generation embraces pearl cultivation despite sector challenges

Rangiroa, French Polynesia – In a sign of the industry’s enduring appeal, 12 young jobseekers have enrolled in a specialized pearl farming program at the Nacre and Pearl Trade Center (CMNP) for the 2024/2025 session. The training, organized by FPS Formation with support from the Pearl Ministry and Maison de la Perle, underscores pearl farming’s role as both cultural heritage and economic lifeline.

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Inside the Immersive Training Program

🔹 Hands-on learning: Trainees toured the Pearl House’s quality control lab, mastering:

• X-ray thickness testing (minimum 0.8mm nacre requirement)
• Grading standards for color, luster, and surface quality
• Export certification protocols

🔹 Ministerial endorsement: From New Caledonia, Minister Temauri Foster urged trainees to embrace “skill, hard work, and perseverance” as keys to success.

🔹 Career pathways: Options range from oyster farming to master grafting—a skill paying up to 15,000 XPF/day (≈€125) for experts.

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Why This Matters

✅ Economic revitalization: 23 total trainees at CMNP signal youth confidence in the sector
✅ Quality focus: Rigorous training combats counterfeit pearls undermining Tahiti’s brand
✅ EU-backed future: CMNP funded by 5th European Development Fund

“We’re not just learning a trade—we’re safeguarding Polynesia’s ‘black gold,’” shared a 22-year-old trainee.

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Challenges & Opportunities

• Market pressures: Global pearl prices remain volatile
• Innovation needs: Sustainable farming techniques prioritized
• Entrepreneurial spirit: 30% of graduates launch independent farms

Next steps: Trainees will complete 400-hour apprenticeships at working pearl farms before certification.

Government Delegation Tours Arutua, Apataki, and Kaukura to Strengthen Connectivity and Economic Diversification

From May 23 to 25, 2011, a high-level delegation—including the Administrator of Tuamotu-Gambier, representatives from the Subdivision, GSMA (Mobile Innovation), JDC (Defense and Citizenship Day), and DRCL (Civil Registry)—visited the atolls of Arutua, Apataki, and Kaukura. This mission marked the first official visit by the Administrator to Arutua, underscoring efforts to bring government services closer to remote island communities.

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Key Initiatives & Breakthroughs

1. Biometric Passport Mobile Unit (DRCL)

• 15 residents processed passport applications on-site, eliminating costly trips to Papeete.
• Mobile kit success paves the way for expanded e-government services in remote areas.

2. Defense & Citizenship Day (JDC) – A First for Tuamotu

• 40 youth completed their mandatory JDC locally, avoiding travel to Tahiti.
• Modern, interactive format aimed at boosting civic engagement.

3. Youth Training & Digital Inclusion (GSMA)

• Workshops introduced mobile tech and vocational skills.
• Challenges remain due to low awareness of administrative procedures.

4. Pearl Industry & Economic Diversification

• Delegation met with pearl farmers, acknowledging sector struggles.
• New agricultural projects signal shift toward resilience:
  • Arutua: Coconut grove regeneration nursery
  • Kaukura: Organic vanilla farming pilot

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Why It Matters

✅ Reduced Inequality – Bringing services to outer islands cuts costs and delays.
✅ Youth Empowerment – Local JDC participation strengthens national belonging.
✅ Economic Adaptation – Pearl farmers explore alternatives amid market challenges.

“This mission proves that innovation isn’t just for urban centers—it’s vital for our atolls’ future,” stated the Tuamotu-Gambier Administrator.

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Next Steps

• Expand mobile admin services to more islands.
• Scale agricultural pilots to reduce reliance on pearl farming.
• Boost digital literacy to bridge bureaucratic gaps.

The Pearl Farming Department will conduct a controlled destruction of substandard pearls on February 7-8, 2011, along Patutoa Road in Papeete. This operation, announced by Temauri Foster, Minister of Marine Resources and Pearl Farming, reinforces the government’s commitment to protecting the premium reputation of Tahitian pearls.

Quality Control Protocol

The rejects—originating from Pinctada margaritifera var. cumingii oysters—are prohibited from commercial sale or export under current regulations. These pearls exhibit defects including:

• Calcite deposits
• Dead tissue zones
• Insufficient nacre thickness

All export-controlled pearls are systematically isolated and destroyed under supervision to prevent market dilution.

Financial Compensation for Farmers

To support quality-focused producers, the government offers:

• 50 FCFP per gram of retained rejects
• Capped at 500 grams per hectare annually

In 2010, this program benefited 155 pearl farmers, with compensation paid for 233,118 rejected pearls, demonstrating the sector’s dedication to upholding the “Tahitian Pearl” designation.

Strategic Impact

This initiative:
✔ Maintains the luxury status of Tahitian pearls
✔ Provides economic relief to farmers adhering to standards
✔ Strengthens international consumer confidence

“Destroying substandard pearls protects the value of every perfect pearl that reaches the market,” emphasized Minister Foster. The operation underscores Polynesia’s uncompromising approach to quality in its signature industry.

A Pivotal Moment for French Polynesia’s Pearl Industry

Since 2007, the Pearl Farming Department has led the “Professionalization and Sustainability of Pearl Farming” project, funded by the 9th European Development Fund (EDF), which concludes in December 2010. To review its achievements, a final conference will be held on Wednesday, November 3, 2010, starting at 8:30 AM in the Presidential meeting hall, under the auspices of the Ministry of Maritime Resources.

This gathering will bring together key industry stakeholders: pearl farmers, institutional representatives, and sector professionals. Notable attendees include Minister of Maritime Resources Temauri Foster and members of the Pearl House (Maison de la Perle). The event will showcase the EDF project’s tangible outcomes, including:

• Mobile technical training programs
• International market analysis
• Scientific breakthroughs in pearl farming

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1. Mobile Training: A Success Among Pearl Farmers

Over two years (April 2008 – June 2010), free, on-site training sessions were conducted directly at pearl farms. Ten expert trainers covered critical topics:

• Grafting techniques
• Tool fabrication
• Pearl grading
• Marketing strategies
• Financial management
• Diving safety

Funded by the EDF, these initiatives complemented the long-standing programs of the Pearl and Mother-of-Pearl Trade Center (CMNP) in Rangiroa, operational since 1990. The results speak for themselves:
✅ 641 training sessions conducted across 20 islands and atolls
✅ 96% satisfaction rate among participants (content & trainers)
✅ 92% demand for continued programs

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2. Scientific Research: Optimizing Production Through Lagoon Studies

The project’s scientific arm focused on pearl lagoon hydrodynamics, with Ahe and Takaroa as primary research sites. Key breakthroughs include:
🌊 Digital current modeling based on bathymetric surveys and 2-year flow measurements
🐚 Larval dispersal studies improving spat collection predictability
🔬 Oyster nutrition analysis with growth & reproduction prediction models

A technical handbook summarizing these findings will be distributed to farmers during the conference.

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3. International Market Strategy: Elevating Tahitian Pearls’ Value

Conducted by Italtrend Consulting, an in-depth market analysis assessed global trends and distribution channels. The final report (June 2010, Papeete) outlines a tailored marketing strategy aligned with evolving demand.

This essential guide will be reissued at the November 3 event, equipping farmers with competitive tools for global markets.

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Looking Ahead: Sustainable Growth for Polynesia’s “Black Gold”

As the EDF project nears completion, its legacy is clear:
🔹 Empowered farmers through hands-on education
🔹 Science-backed production for higher yields
🔹 Data-driven marketing to secure Tahitian pearls’ luxury status

With stronger skills, smarter farming, and sharper market strategies, French Polynesia’s pearl sector is poised to reclaim its global prestige—proving that tradition and innovation can shine together.

“The future of our pearls lies in unity: between farmers, scientists, and policymakers.” — Pearl House Representative

A Passionate Speech at the EDF Project Review

On November 3, 2010, in the reception hall of the Presidency, Mr. Gaston Tong Sang delivered a landmark speech during the European Development Fund (EDF) review day dedicated to the pearl industry. Addressing key sector stakeholders, he emphasized the strategic importance of pearl farming for Polynesia’s economy while outlining a roadmap for its future.

A Vital Sector Facing Challenges

From the outset, Gaston Tong Sang acknowledged the presence of Minister of Maritime Resources Temauri Foster, as well as industry professionals and pearl farmers, highlighting their central role in this heritage-driven sector. He recalled the industry’s historic dynamism while acknowledging current challenges—particularly declining prices and the need for reinvention.

Despite these hurdles, he urged optimism, citing the encouraging results of the recent Bora Bora auctions, where pearl quality made a decisive difference. “Tahitian pearls remain an exceptional product, and it is on this excellence that we must build,” he declared.

Expertise, Research & Partnerships: Keys to Revival

His speech emphasized:

• Enhancing technical skills among pearl farming businesses
• Deepening knowledge of lagoon ecosystems to ensure premium production
• Strengthening partnerships with the European Union and scientific institutions, whose research has led to major advances in sustainable pearl farming

When invited to speak, Minister Temauri Foster outlined ongoing government measures to support the sector, reaffirming institutional commitment to its revival.

A Call to Unite Forces

In closing, Gaston Tong Sang reiterated the unwavering support of the Polynesian government for pearl farmers, urging them to pool their efforts in promoting Tahitian pearls globally. “Let us combine our energies, as we do for tourism, to ensure pearls remain a jewel of our economy,” he stated.

His speech ended with a heartfelt “Mauruuru” (thank you), expressing gratitude to all who work daily to preserve this Polynesian tradition and treasure.

Moving Forward Together

With this united vision—blending tradition, innovation, and shared ambition—French Polynesia reaffirms its determination to secure a bright future for its legendary pearl industry.