The latest information on pearl farming in Tahiti

From now on, the quota will be calculated using the following formula:

Q = R × S (1 + p)

Where:

• Q = Individual production quota
• R = Maximum yield per hectare
• S = Authorized farming area per operation
• p = Specific weighting factor

For 2023, the maximum yield (R) has been set at 2,500 pearls per hectare, in accordance with decisions made during the Pearl Farming Council meeting on June 10.

Objectives of the New Regulation

This updated framework aims to:

Better regulate pearl production in French Polynesia

Balance quotas based on production capacity and available farming areas

Integrate adjustments that account for the specific characteristics of each pearl farming operation

The reform seeks to ensure sustainable and equitable growth in the sector while maintaining the high quality of Polynesian pearls.

3,500 pearl oysters were reintroduced into their natural environment in an attempt to revive reproduction and, consequently, the entire pearl industry.

For several years, professionals in the sector have noticed a significant decline in collection—the crucial process of capturing pearl larvae used to produce the famous black pearls. This decline has been confirmed by annual assessments conducted by the Marine Resources Department (DRM), highlighting a worrying situation for this island, whose economy relies mainly on pearl farming.



Mangareva, which alone accounts for 33% of French Polynesia's pearl production, can only rely on its own biological resources: as the importation of mother-of-pearl is strictly prohibited, the natural reproduction of oysters is vital for the future of the sector.

It is in this context that a DRM team visited the site from December 13 to 17, in collaboration with pearl farmers, to carry out a restocking operation in the lagoon. Thanks to the mobilization of several committed professionals—Benoît Urarii, Thomas Essen, James Gooding, Puea Taerea, Hoarai Urarii, and Joseph Teakarotu—and their teams, 3,500 mother-of-pearl shells were placed in areas carefully selected by scientists from IRD and IFREMER.

The oysters, which are mature and ready to spawn, were placed on natural substrates accessible by free diving. Pearl farmers will now monitor them regularly to observe the evolution of these populations and hopefully ensure their active participation in future spawning.





“Re-seeding is already a first step. It mobilizes and raises awareness among pearl farmers. If it works, we will do it often,” says James Gooding, one of the people involved in this initiative.

Facing a decline in pearl oyster spat collection, an essential element for oyster production, this operation aims to restore oyster populations and strengthen local pearl output.

Operation Details

During this two-day effort, a total of 3,500 mature pearl oysters were reseeded in specific sites identified by researchers from IRD and Ifremer. These adult oysters will serve as a foundation for future reproduction, with the hope that their reintroduction will stimulate natural spawning in the lagoon.

James Gooding, a local pearl farmer, emphasized that this initiative is not just an ecological gesture but also a way to raise awareness among farmers about environmental challenges and strengthen community cooperation. He added that if successful, additional reintroductions could be considered in the future.

Economic and Symbolic Importance

The Tahitian pearl remains an economic cornerstone for French Polynesia, accounting for 70% of local exports. The Gambier Islands, in particular, play a major role in this industry, contributing around 33% of the territory’s total pearl production.

What sets Polynesian pearl farming apart is that oysters are cultivated directly in the wild, unlike in other producer countries (such as Indonesia, Myanmar, or the Philippines), where hatcheries are used.

Oysters are placed on ropes in the lagoon for about six months, where they feed and grow before being harvested. This natural method not only produces unique pearls but is also considered more environmentally sustainable.

Future Goals

This reintroduction aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of the pearl industry while restoring the health of local marine ecosystems. Pearl farmers in the region continue to monitor the reintroduced oysters and hope they will enhance the resilience of pearl production against future ecological and economic challenges.