On May 6, 2019, the Syndicate of Small and Medium-Sized Pearl Farmers of French Polynesia (SPMPF) raised urgent concerns during a press conference about the consequences of the 2017 pearl industry reform. SPMPF President Mia Williams warned the legislation could damage Tahitian pearls’ global reputation.
The Core Controversy
The reform introduced a problematic “Category E” classification with ambiguous quality standards. Professionals argue this vague category threatens to undermine the exacting criteria – color, luster, shape, and nacre thickness – that historically guaranteed the gems’ value.
Industry Demands
Supported by the Toaura Economic Interest Group (led by Marcelle Howard), the SPMPF demands:
- Complete elimination of Category E
- Strengthened export quality controls
These measures are deemed essential to protect the integrity of Polynesian pearls in international markets.
Additional Concerns
Pearl farmers fear the reform’s reduced nacre thickness minimum could:
• Encourage sales of immature pearls
• Trigger harmful overproduction
• Further strain an industry already facing declining Chinese demand (Tahitian pearls’ primary market)
Divergent Perspectives
Aline Baldassari of the Professional Pearl Producers’ Union acknowledges the reform’s imperfections but argues it represents necessary progress toward industry restructuring.
At this critical juncture, the Polynesian pearl sector faces a fundamental choice: Will upcoming legal adjustments preserve Tahitian pearls’ premium status or enable a race to the bottom? The decisions made now may determine the future of this iconic natural treasure.
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