Pearl farming, a crucial sector for the economy of French Polynesia, has been facing difficulties since 2019.
Export earnings from pearls have dropped by half, falling from 5 billion Fcfp in 2019 to just 2.5 billion in 2020, according to data from the Polynesian Statistical Institute (ISPF). This sharp decline, exacerbated by the pandemic, has highlighted several challenges, including a shortage of grafters.
For the past two years, Chinese grafters, who made up a significant part of the workforce, have been unable to leave their home country, leading to a decline in high-quality pearl production. At the Papeete market, pearl supply has been cut in half, causing tension among jewelry sellers. Heiani Riaria, a vendor, notes: *”Before, we used to buy up to 1,000 pieces, and now we only get 500. Prices have also doubled—pearls now sell for 500 to 1,000 Fcfp, compared to 250-300 Fcfp before.”*
Despite the reputation of Chinese workers for efficiency and affordability, there is an urgent need to train more local grafters. Fanny Yip, a jewelry store manager, emphasizes the importance of supporting and training local grafters to reduce reliance on foreign labor. “It’s essential to establish structures to better train and support our local grafters,” she explains.
In 2020, the number of producers dropped by 80 compared to 2018. Yet, despite the challenges, industry professionals remain optimistic. They are actively seeking solutions to revitalize this vital industry for Polynesia and hope for a brighter future for the “black gold of the sea.”
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