This Thursday morning, in front of the Maison de la Perle, more than fifty members of the new pearl professionals’ union expressed their discontent by demonstrating against Deliberation No. 2005-42, which they demand be withdrawn immediately.
After lengthy discussions with the minister and the pearl department, and despite the declared support of the government president, no concrete measures have been taken, further fueling the protesters’ frustration.
The contested deliberation, which regulates pearl exports and mandates the destruction of pearls deemed non-compliant, is at the heart of the criticism. Frank Tehaamatai, spokesperson for the movement, denounces a discriminatory system and suspicions of favoritism in processing times and pearl inspections. He cites a recent case of pearls being unjustly rejected before being reinstated after being cut open.
Doubts are growing about the effectiveness of the ministry and the dedicated pearl department. Over 80% of professionals are demanding not only the repeal of the deliberation but also a complete overhaul of the sector’s management, advocating for greater autonomy for industry players.
Frank Tehaamatai laments the lack of responsiveness and initiative from the minister, stating that this mobilization aims to demonstrate the reality of the crisis shaking the pearl industry. If their demands are not heard quickly, professionals warn they may resort to more radical actions to defend the future of their trade.
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