The latest information on pearl farming in Tahiti

This Saturday, around fifty pearl farmers attended a symposium organized by the company at the Intercontinental, demonstrating a clear intent to connect local producers to the demands of the global market.

Present in French Polynesia since 1990, the family-run Belpearl Group—founded by the Hajjar family from Lebanon—already works with 25 local farms. With extensive experience in Japan, Hong Kong, and now Tahiti, it has become one of the leading players in international pearl trading.

A Local Office for Evaluation, Sorting, and Sales

Freddy Hajjar, the future director of the Papeete office, explains the approach: “We are opening a downtown space where pearl farmers can bring their lots for accurate valuation. Many don’t really know the value of their pearls because the sorting process is not always well done.”

Belpearl also plans to offer free training in modern sorting techniques, inspired by artificial intelligence technologies already used in the diamond industry. This support aims to help producers better align with market expectations.

Fighting Rumors and Providing Direct Information

The initiative also seeks to dispel misconceptions surrounding pearl sales. “Sometimes we sell pearls at very good prices internationally, and then I hear rumors in Tahiti claiming the prices were low. That’s just coconut radio. It’s crucial to share the facts and give farmers the tools to track their sales and understand the true value of their products,” says Freddy Hajjar.

For Steve Pommier, a pearl farmer in Arutua and president of the local lagoon management committee, this new transparency is essential: “We’re often focused on production without knowing what buyers are really looking for. This direct link to the market helps us better guide our farms in terms of quality, size, and color.”

Direct Access to the Global Market

Arii Sichoix, a pearl farmer in the Gambier Islands, welcomes the new office: “Thanks to Belpearl, we now have access to the Hong Kong market with a reduced commission rate of just 5%. It also removes our dependency on a single local middleman. Although that intermediary—Robert Wan—has greatly contributed to our development, it’s time for us to evolve.”

Belpearl’s arrival in Tahiti doesn’t aim to replace existing players but rather to expand opportunities for pearl farmers and encourage a more open market structure.

Hatcheries: The Key to Solving the Nacre Shortage

However, international momentum will mean little if the upstream sector collapses. “The biggest challenge today is the scarcity of pearl oyster spat. Natural collection is no longer sufficient due to pollution. The future lies in hatcheries,” warns Arii Sichoix, who plans to launch his own hatchery in the Gambier Islands by next March.

“It takes two years from spawning to pearl harvest. If we want to ensure the sustainability of the sector, we need to act now,” he insists.

Rising Prices, But Caution Still Needed

The black pearl market remains volatile. “The Covid crisis slowed production, and trade tensions between China and the United States have also impacted prices,” notes Freddy Hajjar.

But the outlook is positive. “Prices have nearly doubled since Covid. We’ve gone from 600 to 1,200 XPF per gram. If demand holds, we could even reach 1,800 XPF,” he adds hopefully.

Prioritizing Quality Over Quantity

The message is clear: better to produce less, but with higher quality. Belpearl purchases pearls ranging from grade A to D, but is now also interested in E-grade pearls, once considered nearly unsellable, due to increasing global demand.

With broader sales opportunities, targeted training, and technical support, Belpearl’s expanded presence in Tahiti could breathe new life into a sector seeking stability.

A Precipitous Drop for Cultured Pearls

The latest data from ISPF, based on figures from the Customs Directorate, reveals a sharp decline in local exports in the fourth quarter of 2024: down 62% in value compared to late 2023. For the full year, the drop reaches 47%, a major blow to Polynesia’s economy.

The pearl industry, a historic pillar of exports, is the primary driver of this downturn. Sales of raw pearls have collapsed: -69% in value and -49% in volume. The average price per gram now stands at 700 F.CFP, in free fall (-39% year-on-year). The annual figures are equally alarming: -59% in value and -52% in volume.

Vanilla and Noni: Rare Bright Spots

Amid the bleak outlook, a few agricultural products buck the trend. Vanilla is experiencing a spectacular rebound: +76% in value and +50% in volume, with prices per kilo reaching 59,000 F.CFP. Noni follows a similar trajectory (+64% in value, +50% in volume).

Meanwhile, other sectors struggle: copra oil shows modest growth in value (+33%) but declines in volume (-21%). Monoï and mother-of-pearl plummet by 41% and 26% in value, respectively.

Imports: Overall Stability, But Sectoral Strains

On the civilian imports side, the trend is stable, but disparities emerge across sectors. Capital goods post strong growth (+26% in value), lifting corporate imports (+6%). Conversely, intermediate goods drop by 12% in value, despite higher volumes (+37%), driven in part by cement purchases.

For households, the decline is moderate (-2% in value, -3% in volume), but the automotive market nosedives (-30% in value).

Energy: Falling Prices, Rising Consumption

Petroleum product imports decline by 14% in value, despite a 14% volume increase. For the full year, their value edges up slightly (+3%), but the average price per kilo drops to 100 F.CFP, down 24%.

A mixed picture highlighting the fragility of Polynesia’s economy, still overly reliant on its pearls.

(Sources: ISPF, Customs Directorate)

This dramatic increase stems from a combination of factors: a strong rebound in international demand and limited supply, a direct consequence of the pandemic.

According to data from French Polynesia’s Institute of Statistics (ISPF), the average price per gram has more than doubled in a year, jumping from around 300 Fcfp to 800 Fcfp. Industry professionals, such as Loïc Wiart, director of Poe Black Pearl, welcome this trend: "This is an unexpected but very welcome comeback."

During the COVID-19 pandemic, pearl farming activity slowed significantly, leading to a sharp drop in production. While demand remained moderate at the time, it has now surged—just as available stocks have hit record lows.

The industry is celebrating this recovery but remains cautious. The rapid price increase could be followed by a sudden downturn if production accelerates too quickly. "There’s a risk of a yo-yo effect," admits Wiart, "but current constraints—particularly the shortage of grafters and mother-of-pearl—should prevent overproduction in the short term."

This revival presents a unique opportunity to revitalize Polynesia’s pearl industry. However, market stability will depend on careful production management and potential regulatory adjustments to prevent another crisis.

In 2023, the DRM collected 6,000 floats in the Leeward Islands and Tuamotu-Gambier as part of a campaign to recycle pearl farming waste.

A Pilot Recycling Project for Plastic Floats

The main challenge lies in the durability of the floats, made from ABS plastic (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), which is difficult to grind due to its toughness. However, the DRM has tested a shredding process to convert these floats into pellets—a method that could be adapted for other islands to facilitate local plastic waste management.

For now, a specialized shredder has been used, and grinding the floats significantly reduces waste volume. A single "big bag" can hold up to 40 whole floats, but once shredded, it can store the equivalent of 300 floats in pellet form, drastically cutting transportation costs and logistical challenges.

Local Impact and Recycling Potential

The DRM’s goal is to implement this shredding process directly on the docks of the concerned islands. This would reduce maritime transport costs while providing an on-site recycling solution. Additionally, reducing float volume could encourage more sustainable waste management among pearl farmers and other local stakeholders.

Pearl farmers are increasingly aware of the importance of recycling. According to Marcelle Howard, President of GIE Toarava, recycling these floats could not only meet the needs of pearl farmers but also supply other sectors, such as lagoon tourism, where the material could be repurposed—for example, in manufacturing urban furniture.

Future Prospects and Challenges

The pilot project has generated significant interest, particularly from a local plastic industry player monitoring its progress. ABS plastic, commonly used in car bumpers, could find new life in local applications if the pellets meet necessary technical standards.

However, the project faces a major hurdle: the recovery of the pearl farming market. The industry is currently struggling, and demand for recycled floats will largely depend on its revival.

Conclusion

This plastic float recycling initiative marks an important step toward establishing a circular economy in Polynesia. It demonstrates how the pearl farming sector can play an active role in environmental protection while developing practical and economically viable solutions for plastic waste management. The DRM continues to explore innovative approaches that could eventually transform waste into valuable resources for the community.

The Polynesian government, through the Marine Resources Department (DRM), has launched an innovative program aimed at enhancing by-products of pearl farming, with a particular focus on blister pearl production, also known as mabe in Japan.

This initiative seeks to diversify income sources for industry professionals by exploring new and creative uses for pearl oysters.

Blister Pearls: A Traditional Yet Innovative Product

Blister pearls are one of the earliest forms of cultured pearl products. They are created by attaching a half-sphere nucleus (typically made of plastic), often decorated with patterns, inside the shell of Pinctada margaritifera (the local pearl oyster). Through natural biomineralization, the oyster coats the nucleus with nacre, forming a pearl. Once the nacre has sufficiently developed, the blister pearl is harvested by cutting the shell. The plastic nucleus is then replaced with epoxy resin, and a nacre plate is added to finalize the pearl.

Program Objectives

The program is structured in several phases:

Professional Training: The first phase involved specialized training for pearl farmers in Takapoto, covering nacre sorting and blister pearl grafting techniques. This step is crucial to introduce farmers to the production process and equip them with the necessary skills for this alternative production method.

Harvest Monitoring & Analysis: A second phase included tracking and analyzing blister pearl harvests, both with and without decorative patterns. This helped determine the technical expertise required for production and identify specific challenges related to harvesting these pearls.

Dissemination of Best Practices: The program also involves creating educational technical guides to replicate the production process across other sites in French Polynesia. These documents will standardize methods and share acquired knowledge with a broader range of professionals.

Collaboration with the Handicrafts Department: Part of the project focuses on blister pearl commercialization, supported by the Handicrafts Department. This phase involves identifying different product grades, cutting, and setting pearls for market readiness.

Expected Impacts

Mastering blister pearl production could provide several benefits for pearl farmers:

Improved Yields: Mabe production allows the use of pearl oysters unsuitable for traditional pearl farming, maximizing overall harvest utilization.

Job Creation: The project could generate new employment opportunities for young local technicians and artisans, particularly in cutting, setting, and marketing blister pearls.

Enhancement of Local Products: The goal is to add innovation and quality to local products, strengthening their position in the international market. This diversification would also help meet global market demands.

R&D for a 100% Bio-Sourced Blister Pearl

Alongside mabe production, the DRM is conducting research and development to create a 100% bio-sourced blister pearl, made from local and sustainable materials. This project could reinforce Polynesia’s ecological commitment and offer an even more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional pearl production.

Conclusion

This blister pearl enhancement initiative represents a significant opportunity for income diversification in French Polynesia’s pearl farming sector. It not only optimizes the use of local resources but also addresses growing environmental concerns while adding value for local producers. By combining innovation and tradition, this project could serve as a sustainable and economically viable model for the pearl farming industry.

1. Crisis of Representation

Shrinking Membership: With only 117 members from 6 organizations (out of 349 professional licenses), the TPAFP fails to reflect the diversity of French Polynesia's pearl industry.

Legitimacy Gap: The association represents just 33% of eligible professionals, raising questions about its mandate to speak for the sector.

2. Governance Breakdown

Dormant Decision-Making: Rare general assemblies and infrequent board meetings paralyze oversight.

Unauthorized Spending: Major financial commitments were approved without proper governance review, violating basic fiscal controls.

3. Ethical Red Flags: Conflicts of Interest

Self-Dealing Allegations: Procurement from companies owned by TPAFP board members circumvents fair competition.

Lack of Transparency: No public disclosure of these transactions, eroding trust in financial stewardship.

4. Questionable Spending Practices

International Activities

Unjustified Subsidies: Public funds flowed to partner associations in Hong Kong, Japan, and the U.S. without clear performance metrics.

No Competitive Bidding: Contracts awarded via direct selection, violating procurement rules for public funds.

Local Operations

Budget Overruns: Mission expenses exceeded projections with no documented justification.

Opaque Contracting: Preferential treatment for select vendors contradicts principles of equitable access.

5. Urgent Reforms Demanded

The CTC mandates immediate action to:
✅ Broaden Membership – Ensure the association truly represents pearl industry stakeholders.
✅ Enforce Financial Controls – Require competitive bidding and independent audits.
✅ Eliminate Conflicts – Bar board members from benefiting from TPAFP contracts.
✅ Restore Transparency – Publish meeting minutes, budgets, and procurement records.

6. Implications: A Sector at Risk

The report exposes a crisis of confidence in the TPAFP’s ability to:

Safeguard public funds (436 million FCFP since 2014)

Effectively promote Tahitian pearls globally

Maintain trust among farmers and exporters

Without rapid reform, the TPAFP risks becoming irrelevant—or worse, a liability to Polynesia’s pearl industry.

Export earnings from pearls have dropped by half, falling from 5 billion Fcfp in 2019 to just 2.5 billion in 2020, according to data from the Polynesian Statistical Institute (ISPF). This sharp decline, exacerbated by the pandemic, has highlighted several challenges, including a shortage of grafters.

For the past two years, Chinese grafters, who made up a significant part of the workforce, have been unable to leave their home country, leading to a decline in high-quality pearl production. At the Papeete market, pearl supply has been cut in half, causing tension among jewelry sellers. Heiani Riaria, a vendor, notes: *"Before, we used to buy up to 1,000 pieces, and now we only get 500. Prices have also doubled—pearls now sell for 500 to 1,000 Fcfp, compared to 250-300 Fcfp before."*

Despite the reputation of Chinese workers for efficiency and affordability, there is an urgent need to train more local grafters. Fanny Yip, a jewelry store manager, emphasizes the importance of supporting and training local grafters to reduce reliance on foreign labor. "It’s essential to establish structures to better train and support our local grafters," she explains.

In 2020, the number of producers dropped by 80 compared to 2018. Yet, despite the challenges, industry professionals remain optimistic. They are actively seeking solutions to revitalize this vital industry for Polynesia and hope for a brighter future for the "black gold of the sea."

As Tahitian cultured pearls mark their 60th anniversary this week at the Poe Ma'ohi trade show at Hilton Tahiti, the CTC's detailed report (covering 2015-2021) highlights the sector's growing difficulties. While pearl farming remains French Polynesia's top local export (generating 8.6 billion Fcfp in 2014), revenues plummeted to 2.5 billion Fcfp in 2020 amid a severe economic crisis. The industry's systemic issues can no longer be ignored.

The report traces pearl farming's turbulent history: from its 1980s boom to the 1990s virus-induced crash, followed by a recovery peaking in 1999. Since that zenith, the sector has faced relentless decline, with export prices per gram collapsing from 1,710 Fcfp in 2000 to 472 Fcfp in 2019.

The 2017 reform—spearheaded by President Édouard Fritch's government to shift from mass production to quality-focused output—has largely failed. Production quotas set in 2021 proved ineffective, public water concessions were allocated haphazardly, and one-third of producers (holding 1,300 hectares) have been inactive since 2017. The transfer of responsibilities to industry professionals and governance changes were similarly unsuccessful.

Environmental damage from pearl farming poses another critical concern, with waste accumulating for 40 years across pearl-producing islands. Takaroa and Takapoto lagoons have suffered particularly severe degradation, requiring costly remediation.

The CTC urges immediate action, recommending seven specific measures for 2021. President Fritch has pledged to launch a new sectoral policy by year-end, incorporating these recommendations. As Tahiti celebrates six decades of pearl cultivation, the industry now faces an urgent overhaul to ensure its survival and ecological sustainability.

The DRM is exploring several avenues to transform this resource into high-value-added products, including:

Using shell derivatives in agriculture (e.g., fertilizers or dietary supplements for laying hens),

Incorporating shells into handicrafts,

Establishing a local industry for nucleus production from powdered shell.

However, a major challenge remains identifying reliable and sufficient sources to supply these new value chains.

To address this, in late September, the DRM launched a survey to inventory shell stocks across French Polynesia’s 349 active pearl farms. Local pearl farming management committees are collaborating with industry professionals to compile precise stock data, with full estimates expected by October 26.

While pearl shells have been exported since the 1980s—generating modest income for producers—the DRM is now prioritizing local valorization over bulk exports to Asia. Between 2014 and 2020, Polynesia exported an average of 1,604 tons of shells annually, with 1,299 tons shipped in 2020 (revenue: 183 million Fcfp). The average price reached 141 Fcfp/kg in 2020, surpassing the 124 Fcfp/kg average since 2014.

Most onshore stocks consist of shells unfit for commercial sale due to defects or damage. Nevertheless, the DRM remains optimistic about developing more profitable and sustainable solutions for this local resource. The ongoing survey’s results will provide critical data to guide efforts toward more effective local valorization of Tahitian pearl shells.

Export prices per gram have also hit a historic low, dropping from 600 Fcfp in 2018 to 270 Fcfp in 2020. Ferdinand Ching, a pearl dealer, explains that this price collapse is partly linked to declining pearl quality, attributed to factors such as lagoon pollution and overproduction.

The situation is further exacerbated by a critical shortage of grafters, a major challenge for local producers. The absence of Chinese grafters, stranded in China, has directly impacted production, leading to a sharp decline in pearl output. By 2020, the number of producers had also decreased by 80 compared to 2018.

Despite these challenges, industry professionals remain cautiously optimistic, emphasizing that resolving the grafter shortage swiftly is crucial to ensuring the survival and sustainability of French Polynesia's pearl farming sector.

According to the latest studies published by the French Polynesian Institute of Statistics (ISPF), the crisis began well before COVID-19, with signs of decline as early as 2018.

The statistics are alarming: the number of pearl oyster producers dropped by 8% in 2020, following a 1% decline in 2019, and farming areas shrank by 12.7% over three years. Pearl production also fell by 26%, dropping from 9.1 million to 6.7 million post-production inspected pearls.

The price of raw pearls plummeted by 51% between 2019 and 2020, falling from 485 Fcfp to just 270 Fcfp, largely due to reduced global demand and the closure of trade routes with Asia. Exports collapsed by 70.4% over three years, with a 50% drop in 2020 alone, totaling only 2.4 billion Fcfp.

Despite these alarming figures, early 2021 data shows a slight rebound, with exports already surpassing 2020 levels. These signs of recovery offer a glimmer of hope for the sector’s future, though structural reforms remain necessary to stabilize the industry in the long term.

The concept? To unlock the full economic potential of mother-of-pearl beyond pearl cultivation—creating new jobs and business opportunities from this underutilized resource.

During a workshop, pearl farmers, artisans, researchers, bankers, and entrepreneurs discussed the study's findings and emerging opportunities. Currently, both oyster shells and flesh remain undervalued, even as the global black pearl market experiences renewed growth.

In the past, wild pearl oyster shells could reach up to 37 cm. But intensive pearl farming has pushed traditional shell harvesting aside, leaving artisans without quality raw materials.

The Econacre study outlines two development pathways:
1️⃣ Local focus: Leveraging existing resources and techniques for immediate economic impact, particularly by repurposing shells from pearl farming
2️⃣ Global ambition: Creating high-value international supply chains

For Cédrik Lo, pearl farming project manager, preserving traditional craftsmanship while adapting to local realities is key—a vision combining lagoon conservation, job creation, and skill development across the islands.

Identified opportunities include:
• Enhancing oyster farming and processing
• Expanding mother-of-pearl handicrafts
• Developing the korori (oyster flesh) industry
• Diversifying into agriculture, animal feed, and construction materials

The Directorate is now supporting pilot projects to implement these initiatives. For context, nearly 1,700 tons of empty Pinctada margaritifera shells were exported in 2018, generating 210 million Fcfp—proof of an untapped economic opportunity.

The time has come to transform this overlooked resource into a driver of sustainable development.

The temporary suspension of work permits for Chinese nationals, coupled with recommendations for workers currently in China to delay their return, could directly impact pearl production.

While these decisions are understood from a public health standpoint, they add strain to an already vulnerable sector. The majority of pearl grafters—a crucial link in the production chain—are Chinese and typically return home for Lunar New Year celebrations. Uncertainty over their timely return now threatens to delay operations.

Rainui Sanquer, President of the GIE Poe no Raromatai, stressed that "without grafters, there is no production," highlighting the urgent need for solutions.

Pearl dealers share similar concerns. Sabine Lorillou, President of Tahiti's Cultured Pearl Merchants Association, warned of potential supply disruptions: "There could certainly be a slight break in the supply rhythm. So this does pose a problem..."

Should restrictions extend beyond three to four months, the consequences could be severe for an industry already grappling with market volatility. A race against time appears underway to maintain the fragile balance of French Polynesia's pearl economy.

Members of the Small and Medium-Sized Pearl Farmers Union of French Polynesia (SPMPPF) and the Federation of Marine Resources Professionals (FPRME) held a press conference Thursday morning. They expressed frustration over a persistent "communication breakdown" with the government spanning three years, despite repeated appeals. SPMPPF and FPRME President Mia Williams denounced feeling systematically ignored by authorities.

Farmers specifically criticize the July 18, 2017 law, asserting prices have plummeted since its implementation - a decline exacerbated by COVID-19. They highlight the disappearance of X-ray quality controls and the creation of a "reject pearls" category as particularly damaging.

To counter this crisis, farmers propose an emergency action plan:

1. An outright ban on selling/exporting rejected pearls, with immediate destruction required

2. Mandatory nacre thickness controls to maintain product quality

3. Quality-driven pricing to reverse market devaluation

While the 2017 law established a Pearl Farming Council, Williams calls it "an empty shell," criticizing delayed implementation - only 9 of 25 pearl-producing islands have formed management committees. She urges simplified committee structures for faster rollout.

In response, Pearl Farming Minister Teva Rohfritsch notes the price decline began in the early 2000s, maintaining the 2017 law aimed to ensure sustainable resource management. He announced an August meeting with the Pearl Farming Council and management committees to develop post-COVID recovery strategies. The minister also pledged to propose exemptions for maritime occupancy fees and pearl export duties to relevant authorities.

With commercial flights suspended, the industry has been paralyzed. The absence of Chinese grafting technicians, essential for oyster seeding, has severely slowed down production.

Sabine Lorillon, president of the Cultured Pearl Traders' Union, warns of the gravity of the situation. The sector is in limbo: sales and purchases are frozen as foreign clients remain stranded abroad. When trade resumes, there are fears of a drastic price drop, potentially driving pearl values far below the current 500-600 Fcfp per pearl.

While high-quality pearls retain their luster, professionals fear mounting pressure from buyers to slash prices, which could devalue accumulated farm inventories. Thomas Esen, head of Rikitea's Pearl Farming Management Committee, notes this crisis may accelerate the closure of many pearl farms that were already struggling pre-pandemic.

The lockdown of Chinese grafters has halted production progress. Only basic oyster maintenance tasks can currently be performed. With no pearl sales possible, some farmers have been forced to cut employee wages, worsening an already precarious economic situation.

Amid this uncertainty, industry professionals have zero visibility for the coming months. They also worry that territorial quarantine measures may deter foreign buyers. Sabine Lorillon concludes that while the sector won't disappear, recovery will be slow - and Tahitian pearls may lose their premium positioning in the global market.

They accuse him of contributing to the decline in pearl prices. In an official statement, Rohfritsch emphasized that the government’s priority is to support struggling families during the health crisis while safeguarding the cash flow of pearl industry professionals.

He stressed that the current situation is exceptional and requires solidarity from all players in the pearl industry—from producers and traders to jewelers. The Vice President also clarified that collective efforts are essential to navigating this unprecedented economic and health crisis.

Rohfritsch further announced that the government is preparing a post-crisis action plan, which will be presented at the next meeting of the Pearl Farming Council. This plan aims to strengthen the pearl industry once the crisis subsides, particularly through measures to revive international markets while leveraging lessons learned from this challenging period.

Finally, the Vice President underscored that all options are being considered to support the pearl sector, depending on how the situation evolves. The statement reiterated that solidarity and cooperation are more crucial than ever to ensure the industry’s resilience in the face of current challenges.

This measure, introduced as part of the economic support plan led by Vice President Teva Rohfritsch, has raised concerns among international market players.

Two black pearl sellers' associations, based in Hong Kong and Japan respectively, have expressed strong concerns about the potential consequences of this tax exemption. According to them, the removal of the DSPE could lead to a drop in pearl prices on the international market. This duty, which is an export tax, plays a crucial role in filtering out lower-quality pearls and maintaining the average price of pearls at an acceptable level.

The presidents of the Tahitian Pearl Association Hong Kong and the Tahiti Pearl Promotion Society of Japan issued a statement warning the Polynesian government. They emphasized that the temporary removal of the DSPE could lead to an overproduction of low-quality pearls, disrupting market balance and causing a devaluation of unit prices.

According to the associations, this measure also risks harming the credibility of the Tahitian pearl market. Consumers, who are key drivers of the industry, may hesitate to buy pearls perceived as having diminished value. This phenomenon would inevitably lead to a decline in sales, threatening the long-term stability of the industry.

Only two specially modified ATR 72s in the fleet can handle this delicate operation. "We completely reconfigure the interior," explains Thierry Caer, Technical Director. "Seats removed, loading rails installed, and protective shoji paneling added to shield the precious cargo." In under three hours, the plane becomes a 74m³ flying hold capable of carrying 12 pallets.

On the ground in Manihi, tension runs high. Each oyster is meticulously weighed to stay within the 5-ton payload limit. While expensive, air transport proves essential. "This keeps our oysters 100% healthy," says pearl farmer Tapu. The rapid transit ensures specimens arrive stress-free and undamaged, ready for the next growth phase.

After ninety tense minutes airborne, the ATR lands in Raiatea. Now begins a carefully choreographed offloading operation where every second counts. "Thermal shock is our enemy," says logistics agent Roland Peni-Marae as workers swiftly transfer oysters to waiting boats. Empty containers are immediately reloaded for the next shipment.

Pearl farm operator Alfred Martin has invested nearly 10 million Fcfp (≈$90,000) in this airborne restocking effort. Five boats stand ready at dock to return the oysters to sea at his Tahaa farm. There, under constant monitoring, they'll continue developing what growers hope will become flawless Tahitian pearls.

This unsung logistical marvel highlights modern pearl farming's complex demands—where cutting-edge aviation, split-second timing, and generations of marine knowledge intersect to sustain one of Polynesia's most iconic industries.

The Pearl's Journey: From Ocean to Jewelry

A Tahitian pearl's path from oyster to ornament involves multiple specialists, each playing a vital role as defined by Polynesia's 2017 pearl farming legislation. Here are the key craftspeople who bring these gems to life:

1. The Nucleus Merchant

The journey begins with the nucleus—a small mother-of-pearl bead implanted in the oyster. These essential components are sourced, recycled, or imported by specialized merchants before being sold to pearl farmers.

2. The Grafter (Pearl Technician)

With surgical precision, this master artisan implants the nucleus into the oyster. Their expertise directly impacts pearl quality, making this one of the industry's most skilled (and delicate) professions.

3. The Pearl Oyster Farmer

From artificial fertilization to larval rearing and oyster transplantation, these farmers oversee the entire growth cycle until oysters are ready for grafting or sale.

4. The Pearl Producer

Responsible for grafting, nurturing, and harvesting, these professionals can sell both raw and finished pearl products—the backbone of Tahiti's pearl economy.

5. The Pearl Wholesaler

Acting as market connectors, wholesalers purchase pearls from producers and supply retailers worldwide with raw and processed pearls.

6. The Jewelry Retailer

These businesses transform pearls into wearable art, selling finished jewelry pieces to consumers through boutique shops and galleries.

7. The Traditional Pearl Artisan

Specializing in culturally significant designs, these craftsmen create handcrafted pearl items that celebrate Polynesian heritage.

Preserving the Craft: Education at Rangiroa

The Centre des Métiers de la Nacre et de la Perliculture (CMNP) in Rangiroa offers intensive 24-month training programs, teaching everything from basic pearl farming to advanced grafting techniques—ensuring these traditional skills endure for future generations.

For those interested in joining this luminous trade:
Contact the Direction des Ressources Marines et Minières or visit the CMNP in Rangiroa to explore educational opportunities in pearl cultivation and craftsmanship.

The Rise and Fall of Pearl Farming

Pearl farming in French Polynesia began in 1961 in the pristine waters of Hikueru Atoll. The government, convinced of pearls' potential, had invested 10 million Fcfp (French Pacific francs) as early as 1956 to exploit the Pinctada margaritifera oyster. Jean Domard, a French veterinarian and head of the Fisheries Department, played a key role in this success, paving the way for the industry’s golden age.

In December 1963, the first harvest of commercially viable round pearls yielded 276 gems. This breakthrough led to grafting attempts in Bora Bora, but private enterprises soon took over. Manihi became the first site for private pearl farms with the founding of the Société Perlière de Manihi (SPM) in 1968, led by Jacques Rosenthal and Australian biologist William Reed.

Over the years, pearl farming expanded to the Tuamotu, Gambier, and Leeward Islands, though the Austral and Marquesas Islands remained untouched. However, overproduction—combined with management missteps and questionable political decisions—triggered a steep price decline. In 1990, pearls sold for 6,490 Fcfp per gram, but by August 2003, the price had plummeted to just 800 Fcfp.

A Fading Industry, a Lingering Hope

Today, Tahitian pearls struggle to reinvent themselves, their heyday now a distant memory. Many farms have closed, leaving behind ruins and hundreds of lost jobs. Yet some family-run operations endure, clinging to hope through oyster spat collection.

A visit to Temotu Perles, run by Michel Grillot near Pension Poerani Nui, reveals these small, resilient ventures fighting to stay afloat. Though the scale of grafting has shrunk, the pioneering spirit that built the industry lives on. Despite challenges, the pearls’ quality remains high, and prices are competitive.

This journey into Manihi’s pearl-farming world offers a fascinating glimpse into a declining yet hopeful industry. It will captivate adventurers and history enthusiasts, echoing tales of legendary explorers like Henry de Monfreid, whose pearl-hunting expeditions in the Red Sea and the Horn of Africa left an indelible mark.

At his pearl farm in Arutua, Steve Pommier and his team of 30 employees produce nearly 300,000 pearls annually. This success is all the more remarkable given the sector's struggles in recent years. "Things have been improving over the past two years," he says, highlighting the progress made despite past hardships.

The pearl industry faced a deep crisis starting in 2008, marked by declining international demand and falling prices. Compounding these challenges were nacre supply issues, particularly on Takaroa atoll, which weighed heavily on production. However, since 2016, the situation has shown signs of recovery, with a slight increase in cultivated areas and the number of producers.

Steve Pommier notes that he doesn't just produce high-quality pearls but also generates "off-grade" pearls that, while not meeting the strictest criteria, still find their place in the market. Currently, about 70% of his production is exported, primarily to Japan and China, the main players in the global pearl market. With demand outpacing supply, pearl prices have risen, creating new opportunities for producers.

Steve Pommier's pearls now sell for 800 francs per gram, or about 1,200 francs per pearl. This price reflects an increase over the past year and a half, signaling market improvement. To attract foreign buyers, quality work remains essential. Grafting, which accounts for roughly 50% of the production process, is a critical step, and Steve emphasizes the importance of training skilled grafters to ensure high-quality output.

"We train our own grafters. In the past, we trained eight locals, but only one still works at our farm. The others returned to Papeete. You have to really want to live in the Tuamotus to pursue this career. So we've hired Chinese grafters—they're tougher and more reliable," he explains.

Today, Steve Pommier considers Rikitea and Arutua—with its 80 producers—to be the two largest pearl-producing areas in French Polynesia. This positive trend points to a promising future for the local pearl industry.

This event, marking a key moment for local pearl farming, focuses on three major themes:

• Promotion of Tahitian cultured pearls
• Environmental protection
• Improvement of grafting techniques

Spanning two days, the forum enabled various participants - producers, decision-makers and scientists - to share their perspectives before an engaged audience. Discussions revolved around three main axes:

• Enhancing the value of Tahitian cultured pearls
• Strategies for sustainable and environmentally-friendly pearl farming
• New grafting techniques to improve pearl quality

Minister of Primary Resource Development Tearii Alpha opened the forum by emphasizing the importance of pearl farming strategy, calling for concerted collaboration to achieve common goals. He stressed the need to protect lagoons as a prerequisite for establishing eco-responsible pearl farming. The government strategy focuses on quality production while preserving ecosystems, maintaining genetic diversity, regulating hatcheries, improving commercialization organization, and creating a certification label for this approach.

Pearl quality was also central to discussions, particularly nucleus monitoring as a crucial production element. Tearii Alpha reiterated that pearl quality directly depends on nucleus quality - a fundamental point for ensuring industry sustainability.

Pearl exports declined by 14.4% in volume and 12.9% in value in 2016 according to the Overseas Issuing Institute (IEOM). However, Tearii Alpha contextualized these figures, noting that despite this decrease, Tahitian pearls remain French Polynesia's second largest export resource, representing 35% of export revenue, just behind tourism.

Finally, the 2017 law regulating pearl and mother-of-pearl activities was highlighted. It aims to improve product traceability and establish production quotas per hectare. This legislation intends to ensure stricter sector management from production to export, guaranteeing sustainable and lasting growth for the pearl industry.

In 2015, Polynesia's blue economy generated reported revenues of 39 billion Fcfp, though IEOM estimates suggest the actual figure could approach 47 billion Fcfp. Despite this oceanic wealth, economic valorization remains moderate, hindered by various structural obstacles.

Maritime transport stands as the primary driver of this economy, accounting for a quarter of total revenue—10 billion Fcfp annually. This sector remains a cornerstone, supporting both inter-island commerce and international trade.

Aquaculture shows significant untapped potential. While its 2015 revenue capped at 500 million Fcfp, its development could reach 5.7 billion Fcfp by integrating processing and commercialization. However, the specific accounting of pearl farms in remote areas partially skews current estimates.

Between 2010 and 2015, marine-related sectors saw an average annual growth of 8%, led primarily by fisheries and shipbuilding. These positive trends chart a path for the future.

Seafood products, the spearhead of Polynesian exports, earned 10 billion Fcfp in 2015. Meanwhile, the tourism industry, deeply tied to the ocean, generated 46 billion Fcfp—14.4 billion of which came directly from maritime activities, according to ISPF figures.

The blue economy currently employs nearly 4,850 people. Fishing and pearl farming remain traditional pillars, heavily weighting goods exports. The yachting and cruise sectors are also thriving, with 800 boats recorded in Polynesia in 2015.

Despite these advances, IEOM identifies vast untapped potential, particularly in aquaculture. Large-scale projects like the Hao aquaculture farm could profoundly transform the industry in coming years.

In response, Teva Rohfritsch, Minister of the Blue Economy, emphasized the strategic importance of marine resources for Polynesia, announcing new initiatives to maximize sustainable exploitation of this invaluable oceanic asset.

According to the latest figures from French Polynesia's Statistical Institute (ISPF), pearl export revenues increased by 12% in 2014, reaching 8.8 billion CFP francs, marking a second consecutive year of growth.

This improvement also shows in a 6% increase in export volumes, reversing three years of continuous decline. The average export price per pearl now stands at 1,030 CFP francs (+1.5% compared to 2013), while the price per gram shows a more significant increase of 6%, reaching 600 CFP francs.

However, these positive results mask a more nuanced reality. The ISPF notes that "revenue levels remain low compared to the sector's true potential" and that "the supply-demand imbalance still favors demand." The current unit price doesn't reflect the luxury image associated with Tahitian black pearls, French Polynesia's second-largest domestic resource after tourism.

"We eagerly await the new law on pearl products, originally scheduled for late 2015 and currently on hold," laments Aline Baldassari, President of the Tahitian Pearl Association of French Polynesia (TPAFP). She stresses the urgent need for regulatory reform, particularly to count pearls when they leave the water rather than only at export, to obtain statistics that better reflect actual production.

In 2014, raw cultured pearl production extended across 25 Polynesian islands, with 561 maritime concessions, including 435 in the Tuamotu Archipelago. This complex artisanal activity, which requires two years of training to become a grafter, represents unique expertise—the world's only grafting school is located in Rangiroa.

While the sector's economic recovery is underway, professionals now await updated regulations to consolidate this momentum and restore Tahitian black pearls' full value in international markets.

Export Crisis: Pearls in Freefall

📉 August 2023 vs. August 2022:

• Pearl exports down 58%
• Year-to-date decline: 20.7%

🌊 Other Exports Hold Steady:

• Fishing, noni, copra, and monoï maintain performance
• Slight dip for noni in August
• Import Rebound Across Sectors

📈 Key Increases:

• Intermediate goods: +7%
• Capital equipment: +19%

Automobiles: +52% (surge) ⛽ Exception: Petroleum products -23% (due to global price drops)

Domestic Economic Signals

🛒 Household Consumption:
-2% volume (but +8% value) → Inflation pressure

🏭 Business Investment:
+6% volume, +4% value → Cautious optimism

Why This Matters

The pearl industry’s collapse (representing ~30% of non-tourism exports) exposes Polynesia’s vulnerability:
⚠ Over-reliance on traditional exports
⚠ Urgent need for sector diversification
⚠ Inflation eroding purchasing power


Expert Insight:

"Pearls are our economic compass," notes an ISPF economist. "When they decline, it shakes our entire trade balance." With global luxury demand softening, Polynesia faces tough choices between industry bailouts and accelerating diversification.