The latest information on pearl farming in Tahiti

This initiative comes as a global oversupply of pearls continues to heavily weigh on production prices.

Following a series of consultations with industry professionals and mayors of pearl-producing municipalities, a territorial bill is expected to be presented to the Assembly before year-end. In this exclusive interview, Minister Rohfritsch details the challenges and proposed measures.

Why involve mayors in discussions to revive the industry?

"It is crucial to have a shared draft text, and mayors' early participation is essential to restore the pearl's value," explains the minister. "Currently, pearl prices show no increase, and it's time to address this issue firmly. As local representatives, mayors must act as territorial guardians to ensure regulations are enforced."

Is increased production control planned?

"Indeed, stronger production control is necessary," confirms Rohfritsch. "We must manage inventories held by traders and in the lagoons. All stakeholders will have to comply with production quotas."

What economic levers are planned to revive the pearl industry?

The minister stresses that "controlling supply is imperative to raise pearl prices." He adds that "defining quality standards and their presentation in international markets, in collaboration with professionals and mayors, is crucial. We aim to simplify export procedures by controlling production."

What are the production figures for this year and next?

"The lack of visibility on production is a major concern. That's why tighter control is needed," states Rohfritsch. "Currently, we have rough estimates, but more precise data is essential. The pearl farming minister's production regulation requires thorough knowledge of all its aspects."

What would be the consequences of rising pearl prices?

"If pearl prices recover, we expect job creation and economic growth, particularly in the islands," the minister asserts. "It's vital to bring populations back to these islands, as many migrated to Tahiti or diversified their activities after the price collapse. The pearl is a French treasure, and we must restore its value."

Is the focus on quality over quantity?

"Yes, current discussions address elements like nacre thickness and visual criteria," specifies Rohfritsch. "The goal is to elevate the product, empower professionals, and establish a sustainable quality label. Geographic origin designations, like 'Rikitea Pearl,' are also being considered."

The Climate Threat to Pinctada Margaritifera

🌡️ Critical Findings:

• Oysters exposed to +2°C water temperatures show:
• Disrupted metabolism
• Reduced pearl quality
• Higher mortality rates
• 69% of Polynesia’s goods exports (€73.7M in 2014) now vulnerable

👥 Human Impact:

• 1,300 direct jobs (5,000–8,000 indirectly) at stake
• Remote atolls most affected (few economic alternatives)
• Adaptation Strategies Underway

🔬 Scientific Countermeasures:

Geographic Shift:

Relocating farms from Tuamotu to cooler Austral Islands

Genetic Research:

Studying heat-resistant oyster subspecies in Marquesas

Hatchery Innovations:

Developing temperature-tolerant larvae

💡 Government-Private Partnerships:

• $5M R&D initiative launched in 2023
• Real-time lagoon monitoring systems
• Industry Resilience

Despite challenges, Polynesia bets on:
✨ Premium Positioning: Leveraging rarity to justify higher prices
♻ Eco-Certification: Sustainable pearl branding for climate-conscious buyers
🌊 Coral Restoration: Protecting oyster habitats through reef regeneration


Expert Insight: *"This isn’t just about saving pearls—it’s preserving a 5,000-year-old relationship between our people and the ocean,"* says marine biologist Dr. Hinano Teavai-Murphy.

Next Steps: Pilot farms in Austral Islands to launch by 2025, while blockchain tracing ensures climate-adaptive practices meet luxury market demands.

Inside the Mission

🔹 Auction Participation: Direct access to Tahiti’s pearl sales
🔹 Tuamotu Farm Tours: Behind-the-scenes look at cultivation
🔹 Industry Deep-Dive: From grafting to grading processes


"This bridges our producers with China’s vast market," notes a TPAF spokesperson. The timing is critical—Polynesia’s pearl sector, though struggling with price pressures and global competition, sees China as a lifeline.

Government Overhaul in Motion

💡 Economic Minister Teva Rohfritsch is driving reforms: ✔ Stricter production controls
✔ Inventory regulation
✔ Enhanced quality standards
A draft bill aims to stabilize prices and restore the industry’s prestige.


Auctions Highlight Resilience

Despite challenges, recent sales showcased:
✨ Exceptional quality (rare peacock/golden hues)
✨ Artisanal craftsmanship
✨ Growing Chinese interest (20% of lots went to Asian buyers)

The Big Picture: With China’s luxury market projected to grow by 8% annually, Tahiti bets on its pearls’ natural allure to offset global headwinds. As one dealer put it: "These aren’t just gems—they’re pieces of Polynesia’s soul."