In response to concerns raised by the Polynesian Competition Authority regarding the pearl farming reform, Minister Teva Rohfritsch issued a statement detailing the government’s position on several points highlighted by the Authority. The latter had identified potential competition distortions and made recommendations concerning certain provisions of the proposed bill. Below is a summary of the minister’s responses to the key issues addressed.
Consultation and Timelines
The government justifies the relatively tight deadlines by the need to submit a finalized bill for consultation. It emphasizes the importance of achieving broad consensus among professionals and elected officials, while welcoming the Authority’s prompt feedback despite time constraints.
Reform Objectives
The minister reiterates that the primary goal of the reform is to regulate production and enhance the value of Tahitian pearls, while preserving the environment and adopting sustainable practices. He notes that existing regulations have failed to reverse the decline in pearl values and highlights lagoon degradation, calling for necessary reforms to ensure a more responsible future.
Competition Analysis
Regarding the Authority’s concerns about competition distortions, the government clarifies that the new regulations prioritize ecological considerations. Criteria for administrative permits are designed to protect natural resources and lagoons while minimizing market distortions.
Regulation of Pearl Farming Professions
The minister explains that the proposed framework aims to professionalize the sector, particularly by ensuring product traceability, without imposing excessive control over commercial transactions. Market standards and buyer expectations will dictate requirements to ensure responsible and transparent management.
Implementation of Quotas
The government acknowledges shortcomings in communicating quota-setting rules during technical hearings. It specifies that quotas are calculated based on occupied surface areas and apply equally to all farms.
Quality Standards Revision
The government supports not rigidly classifying pearls in the law, arguing that flexibility will better meet market demands. It also proposes labeling pearl products to recognize regional specificities and enhance local production value.
New Governance Structure
On governance, the government stresses that committee composition will be balanced, ensuring representation from all sector stakeholders. These advisory bodies will make objective and transparent decisions. The Pearl Farming Council will propose quotas, which will then be finalized by ministerial decree.
Conclusion and Remarks on the Authority
The government reaffirms that the reform aims not to burden regulations but to address new challenges in sustainable resource management. It emphasizes the need for constructive dialogue among sector players and proposes local platforms to strengthen communication. Lastly, the government contends that the Competition Authority overstepped its mandate by commenting on international trade and quality standards, which fall outside its jurisdiction.
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