The latest information on pearl farming in Tahiti

A 70-year-old retiree, a former OPT employee, was sentenced to three years in prison, including six months without suspension, for illegally purchasing pearls without the required dealer’s license. His accomplice, an experienced jeweler, received a six-month suspended sentence for receiving stolen goods.

Between December 2018 and February 2019, the retiree had acquired several batches of pearls worth over 20 million Fcfp (XPF) from Polynesian producers. Tempted by a previous highly profitable investment, he ventured into the pearl trade without authorization, using deceptive tactics: promises of bank transfers that never materialized, partial cash payments, fake transfer orders, and even involving an accomplice on the phone to reassure sellers.

These fraudulent maneuvers left several pearl farmers in financial distress, with some unable to afford their children’s schooling. Meanwhile, the Chinese merchant, active in the sector for years, was found guilty of purchasing pearls from this fake dealer without verifying the legality of his operations.

The prosecutor denounced the case as the "tip of the iceberg," referring to a parallel market that is difficult to regulate. The court ordered joint restitution of over 18 million Fcfp to the victims.

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.

1. Background: A Flawed Policy

2017 Mass Destruction: The Direction des Ressources Marines (DRM) seized and destroyed thousands of "imperfect" pearls, citing a 2005 regulation banning their sale.

Ruled Illegal: Courts later determined the policy violated property rights, opening the door for pearl farmers and traders to sue for damages.

2. Escalating Legal Battles

Early Victories (2021): Two pearl farmers won compensation, setting a precedent.

Expanding Claims: 15 additional producers are now demanding reparations for 585,000 destroyed pearls.

Hidden Scale: Lawyers estimate millions of pearls may have been unlawfully destroyed since 2005, suggesting even greater liability.

3. Valuation Dispute: From 575 Fcfp to 250 Fcfp per Gram

Initial Ruling (2021): The Papeete Administrative Court set pearl value at 575 Fcfp/gram.

Appeal Reduction: Paris’ Administrative Court of Appeal slashed this to 250 Fcfp/gram, drastically lowering payouts.

Pending Awards: The public rapporteur recommends 1–37 million Fcfp per case for the remaining nine claims.

4. Total Financial Exposure: ~100 Million Fcfp

If courts uphold the rapporteur’s guidance:

Current Claims: 96.5 million Fcfp for nine cases.

Cumulative Total: Combined with earlier settlements, the government could owe over 100 million Fcfp.

5. Sector-Wide Fallout

Regulatory Distrust: Pearl farmers accuse authorities of arbitrary enforcement and unfair destruction of their stock.

Compensation Lifeline: Payouts could help producers recoup losses but won’t undo years of lost revenue.

Systemic Reforms Needed: Calls grow for clearer pearl-grading standards and transparent policies.

6. Next Steps: June 7 Decision

The final ruling (expected June 7) will determine:

The total financial hit to French Polynesia’s budget.

Whether the government must adjust pearl industry regulations to prevent future disputes.

Shadow Workforce Revealed

The report highlights systemic challenges in tracking pearl industry employment. Without specific occupational codes distinguishing pearl workers from general aquaculture laborers in official statistics (ISPF), estimates remain unreliable. After excluding shrimp/pisciculture workers, the CTC calculates an annual average of 894 pearl sector jobs from 2015-2019 - a figure deemed grossly inadequate given the scale of operations.

Discrepancies in Employment Data

648 professional card-holding producers were registered in 2020

Only 445 employees formally declared in aquaculture/pearl farming that year

President Fritch's estimate of 2,500-3,000 actual jobs underscores the gap

Alarming Labor Conditions

Over 50% of workers lack employment contracts or social protections, a situation authorities acknowledge but have failed to rectify. The CTC urgently recommends:

Immediate creation of a specialized pearl worker classification

Mandatory 2021 action plan against undeclared labor

Enhanced sector transparency measures

"This isn't just about fraud prevention - it's about protecting vulnerable workers and legitimizing our signature industry," the report emphasizes. As Polynesia's pearl sector celebrates its 60th anniversary, these findings demand urgent governmental response to safeguard both workers and the industry's international reputation.

The administrative court recently examined a claim by Toanui Pearls, whose 14,175 pearls were destroyed in March 2017—just before new legislation authorized their commercialization.

This case mirrors January's ruling that ordered the government to pay 30 million Fcfp in compensation after destroying over 120,000 pearls previously deemed unsellable. Both judgments found the destruction orders lacked legal basis.

While Toanui Pearls seeks 14 million Fcfp in damages, the court's rapporteur suggested 7.5 million Fcfp as appropriate compensation, noting the pearls held verifiable market value once commercialization became permitted.

A final ruling is expected by March 16.

The repeated cases highlight growing legal uncertainty for pearl industry professionals, compounding pressures on a sector already weakened by years of economic challenges.

At the time, the destruction was justified under a 2005 resolution prohibiting the sale and export of pearls deemed imperfect. However, the court ruled that this regulatory basis was "entirely lacking legal foundation" on this matter.

The court determined that the government had no right to seize and destroy goods belonging to a private company, thereby violating its property rights.

Initially, Raipoe International had sought 86 million Fcfp in damages. The court ultimately awarded 30 million, taking into account a key factor: the enactment, just months later, of a new law legalizing the sale of such pearls. This legislative change caused market prices to drop, thereby limiting the financial harm suffered.

The ruling highlights a paradoxical situation: The government has been penalized for acting on an illegal regulation, while subsequent legalization of pearl sales ultimately mitigated the economic consequences.

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.

A thorough inspection revealed both women were smuggling pearls on their persons. The first had concealed 561 pearls and 27 keishi pearls in her undergarments, while the second hid 346 pearls using the same method. These high-value, exceptional-quality pearls had been stolen directly from their employer's pearl farm, causing significant financial damage to the business.

The confiscated pearls will undergo expert valuation. French Polynesia's pearl trade operates under strict regulations ensuring traceability and protecting this vital economic sector. All pearl exports require specific documentation, with customs playing a key oversight role.

The pearl farm owner has filed theft charges, and judicial proceedings are underway with a formal report to the Public Prosecutor's Office. This high-value pearl theft could lead to severe legal consequences for those involved.

This initiative is part of a major legislative reform adopted in July 2017, designed to revitalize French Polynesia's pearl industry.

For years, the pearl sector had been facing a crisis that demanded a complete overhaul of its legal framework to better address industry challenges. The law enacted in July 2017 was crafted to regulate professional activities related to pearl and mother-of-pearl production and trade. Its primary goal is to ensure sustainable resource management while protecting the environment—a critical concern for the future of this industry.

Aline Baldassari, President of the Tahitian Pearl Association of French Polynesia, emphasizes the importance of this reform, which she considers an essential response to industry professionals' demands and market fluctuations. The reform also seeks to streamline administrative processes, previously seen as a hindrance by pearl farmers.

The law, passed in July 2017 and supplemented by 12 decrees through September 2018, introduces several key measures to structure the pearl industry. These include:

• Mandatory production volume declarations
• Professional licenses for each trade
• Required reporting of stock levels, purchases, and sales
• Technical approval for nucleus imports to ensure quality and compliance

Other notable provisions:

• Mandatory oyster detachment before transfer
• Production quotas and ecological management caps
• New nacre thickness evaluation for cultured pearls to guarantee quality
• Establishment of a Pearl Farming Council and local management committees to strengthen sector governance

While the full benefits of this reform may take two to three years to materialize, it marks a true revolution for the industry. The goal is to revive the pearl sector and enhance the international reputation of Tahitian pearls. Its success hinges on industry professionals' adaptability and the full commitment of all stakeholders to ensure the long-term sustainability and prosperity of this vital economic pillar for French Polynesia

According to Aline Baldassari, President of the Tahitian Pearl Association of French Polynesia (TPAFP), these counterfeits have become difficult to distinguish, even for industry professionals, exposing consumers to a risk of confusion.

Although technological solutions have been explored to ensure pearl traceability, these initiatives face economic constraints. In response, the TPAFP proposes creating a distinctive label to protect the Tahitian Pearl in the international market. This label would certify the origin and quality of the pearls, with strict criteria such as the use of an authentic nucleus and nacre sourced exclusively from the Tuamotu archipelago.

This certification, which will be carried out in France and protected by European law, aims to reinforce the authentic image of Tahitian pearls and ensure consumer trust worldwide. Simultaneously, verification campaigns will be implemented in Hong Kong to prevent the misuse of the "Tahitian Pearl" brand by producers of fake black pearls.

Thus, this initiative seeks to preserve the integrity of Tahitian pearl farming and guarantee the provenance of pearls sold in international markets.

This ruling follows a legal challenge by Pearly Investissements. Tearii Alpha, Minister of Primary Resource Development, clarified that despite the rejection of four articles, the law will still be enacted within the next ten days. The government has pledged swift action to implement the reform starting in July.

Concurrently, new legislation will be introduced to regulate street vending around markets, aiming to organize this sector while protecting jewelry artisans' livelihoods. The reform's overarching goals are to enhance the image of Tahitian cultured pearls, professionalize the industry, and establish strict resource management rules.

Minister Alpha emphasized the importance of tracking nuclei from production to exported pearls to streamline export procedures. The law will also introduce quotas, environmental and health standards, and transparency requirements for traders. Despite the partial rejection, the minister expressed satisfaction with the State Council's decision and announced awareness campaigns in pearl-producing islands to prepare professionals for the sector's reorganization.

The pearl trader argued that even if considered rejects, these pearls had market value, particularly when imperfections affected less than half their surface and they could be commercially sold as cut cultured pearls.

The court acknowledged the quality control exercised by the Pearl Farming Department. However, it also ruled that the deprivation of property resulting from the pearl destruction warranted compensation under Article 17 of the 1789 Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen. The court concluded the company failed to prove the destroyed pearls could be partially repurposed for commercial use.

Consequently, the court ordered French Polynesia to pay EURL Raipoe International 10,297,782 FCFP in compensation for the property deprivation of 323,080 pearls destroyed on May 17, 2016.

The reform sparked intense debate among assembly members, who expressed divergent views on the legislation's potential impact on the pearl industry.

Political Divide on Reform

The discussions were largely dominated by the Rassemblement pour une majorité autonomiste (RMA) group, which backed the bill. Charles Fong Loi, a representative of the group, praised the initiative as addressing the sector's current crisis. He emphasized lagoon protection measures and the creation of advisory committees to empower local stakeholders, calling the reform "essential for the long-term viability of Polynesian pearl farming."

In contrast, the Tahoera'a huiraatira group expressed reservations, supporting certain provisions while raising concerns. Monique Richeton of the orange party criticized the elimination of systematic pearl inspections, arguing this could undermine product traceability and sector competitiveness. She contended the government appeared to be restricting pearl trade—a point that fueled heated exchanges.

Regulatory Concerns and Defense

The Competition Authority reiterated earlier warnings about potential market distortions. However, Teva Rohfritsch, Minister of the Blue Economy, staunchly defended the reform, stating it aimed to "balance production control with sector-wide support."

Outcome and Implications

After two hours of debate, the bill passed with 29 votes in favor, 14 against, and 10 abstentions. Despite objections, the reform clears the way for stricter, more transparent regulation of French Polynesia's pearl industry—a sector accounting for 70% of local exports and 1,300+ jobs.

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.

In its statement, the Authority highlights several potential competition distortions and proposes recommendations to address these issues. The bill will be reviewed this Tuesday by assembly representatives, who must examine the implications of these legislative revisions for the entire pearl sector.

Assembly debates will focus on regulations concerning production, marketing of pearl and mother-of-pearl products, as well as sector entry conditions. In its analysis, the Polynesian Competition Authority emphasized the need for earlier consultation, stating that prior discussions would have allowed for a more thorough study of the project's competitive impacts. It particularly criticized certain proposals in the bill, including market access regulation, production quotas, and new licensing requirements for pearl farming activities.

Among the main reservations raised, the Authority recommends revising ecological and management caps, which it considers favorable to existing operators at the expense of new market entrants. Additionally, the failure to submit implementing decrees was seen as a significant shortcoming, leaving uncertainty about the new rules' impact on competition.

The pearl farming reform, a key sector of Polynesia's economy, is the subject of intense debate, and the bill's review may lead to adjustments based on discussions among various political and economic stakeholders. The objective remains to ensure a competitive pearl sector while addressing the environmental and economic challenges of French Polynesia.

Organized by the Tahitian Pearl Association of French Polynesia (TPAFP) under President Aline Baldassari-Bernard, with support from CCISM and Air Tahiti Nui, the event gathered nearly 100 pearl industry professionals.

Over two days of intensive discussions, eight speakers addressed critical themes spanning R&D, environmental and health monitoring, to pearl marketing strategies. The North American market received special focus through presentations by renowned American gemologist Étienne Perret.

In his closing address, Minister Rohfritsch outlined key elements of the proposed pearl sector reform, emphasizing:

• Production regulation through national quotas
• Classification modernization to meet international standards
• Enhanced oversight of industry stakeholders
• Sustainable practices including lagoon preservation and waste recycling

This ambitious reform aims to modernize French Polynesia's pearl industry while ensuring its long-term viability amid current economic and environmental challenges.

The Pearl Forum served as a vital platform for professionals to exchange ideas, explore innovation pathways, and collectively commit to building a sustainable future for Polynesia's pearl industry.

A marine ecology professor at the University of French Polynesia and researcher at the "Oceanic Island Ecosystems" Joint Research Unit (UMR-EIO), Gaertner-Mazouni explains the goal was to make scientific knowledge accessible and directly applicable in the field.

The result of several years' work under the ANR-funded Polyperl research program, this guide celebrates collective effort while providing tangible feedback to pearl farmers who were actively involved in the research.

Structured around thirty practical fact sheets, the publication covers all essential aspects of pearl farming: industry overview, administrative procedures for becoming a producer, health monitoring, diving safety, waste management, oyster collection, pearl oyster cultivation, grafting (the key pearl production stage), and a socioeconomic analysis of the sector.

"We provide recommendations and clarify certain regulatory points, but without imposing obligations," emphasizes Gaertner-Mazouni. Designed for all industry professionals, the guide will soon be distributed across the islands and presented to participants of the Pearl Forum opening today at Papeete's CCISM.

Despite increased production, the sector has faced declining prices for 25 years, threatening nearly 3,000 jobs. A third of farms have closed over the past eight years, underscoring the need for decisive action.

The reform introduces national production quotas allocated among farms. All pearls must be registered, with excess production banned from sale to safeguard lagoon health and product value.

Teva Rohfritsch, Minister of the Blue Economy, frames this as a sustainable development initiative. Quotas will adapt to each lagoon's ecological specifics, and public domain usage terms will tighten to mandate environmental restoration and waste management.

Another breakthrough: the elimination of "rejected pearls." All pearls can now be utilized—particularly in crafts and jewelry—without minimum nacre thickness requirements, though optional certifications remain available.

To combat illegal practices, producers, traders, and retailers will be prohibited from transferring pearls to third parties without authorization. Nucleus purchases will be strictly regulated, with mandatory record-keeping for merchants.

Endorsed by the Economic, Social, and Cultural Council, the bill faces assembly vote ahead of a January implementation. In tandem, the Tahitian Pearl Association of French Polynesia will host a Pearl Forum on October 20-21 at CCISM—a public platform to debate the future of Polynesian pearl farming.

At the heart of this overhaul is the abandonment of the mandatory pearl certification system, deemed "obsolete" and "punitive" by many industry players. This 2005 system will be replaced by a quota scheme aimed at better regulating production while giving pearl farmers more freedom in their commercial strategies.

"We want to be able to sell more pearls. Before, there were strict controls on the pearl's nacre thickness and appearance, which were really penalizing for producers and traders," explains Aline Baldassari-Bernard, president of the Professional Pearl Producers' Union. "This 2005 classification had become unbearable—it was completely outdated."

This reform comes amid concerning economic conditions for the sector. The latest figures from French Polynesia's Institute of Statistics reveal a drastic drop in raw pearl exports in April, with a 65% decline in value, highlighting the urgent need for restructuring.

Teva Rohfritsch, Minister of Pearl Farming, emphasizes the philosophy behind the reform: "The spirit of this text is about empowering industry stakeholders, with a redefinition of the administration's role and greater responsibility for professionals." However, he clarifies that "the option to obtain free certification of nacre thickness from the Marine Resources Department" remains for those who wish to use it as a selling point.

The introduction of quotas is another major innovation of this reform. Managed by local committees, these quotas will not only allow precise quantification of pearl production—a previously unknown statistic—but also incorporate environmental criteria to preserve resources.

Other key measures in this regulatory overhaul include professionalizing the sector through the introduction of professional licenses, implementing a pearl product traceability system, and establishing a Pearl Farming Council.

The draft law still has several steps to complete before its expected implementation on January 1: finalizing the text, presenting it to the Council of Ministers, and then review by the CESC and the French Polynesian Assembly. Nevertheless, industry professionals appear confident in the outcome of this process and the anticipated benefits of this regulated liberalization.

Presented Thursday to professional organizations in the sector, this legislative text notably proposes the establishment of a rigorous certification system, integrated into a "quality label" for Tahitian pearls.

This strategic initiative received favorable feedback from industry stakeholders during a meeting chaired by the Polynesian government leader and the Minister of the Blue Economy. "All unanimously agree that the quality of Tahitian cultured pearls must be the priority criterion for enhancing this product's value, both in local and international markets," states an official presidential communiqué.

In a global context of increasing competition, this certification appears as an essential lever to distinguish Polynesian pearls in international markets. The stated objectives are threefold:

• Restore the prestigious image of Tahitian pearls
• Further professionalize the industry
• Effectively structure this crucial economic sector for the archipelago

The draft law also includes the implementation of a quota system to regulate production. This overall quota, proposed by the Pearl Farming Council, will then be allocated individually based on several criteria:

• Environmental and health standards
• Compliance with production and marketing best practices
• Regulatory conformity

This approach aligns with a long-term vision of sustainable development, combining quality requirements with natural resource preservation. Discussions will continue next week to refine the practical implementation modalities of this system, which could profoundly transform Polynesia's pearl industry landscape.

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."

Last Friday around 5:30 PM, customs officers at Papeete's ferry terminal intercepted a man arriving from Moorea by scooter. In his bag, they uncovered nine lots of loose pearls weighing 5.3 kg, along with four lots of keshi pearls totaling 460 grams. Unable to justify the origin of these precious goods, the man violated strict regulations governing the local pearl trade.

The search continued with the discovery of 820,000 FCFP in cash, neatly arranged in 10,000 FCFP bills. Suspecting a larger operation, customs officers proceeded to raid his home. There, they made an unprecedented find: 327 kg of Tahitian pearls stored in safes and on shelves—the largest seizure in the territory's history.

The individual, who claimed to be a cultured pearl producer, was found to be in serious violation. The stock included rejects, directly contravening current regulations designed to protect the reputation and quality of Tahitian pearls. Initial estimates place the minimum value of this seized treasure at approximately 38 million francs.

The alleged smuggler faces a fine of 76 million FCFP and up to three years in prison. Customs authorities are actively investigating the precise origin of these pearls and any potential illicit networks involved. This dramatic case highlights the challenges of combating fraud in an industry that is both strategically vital and fragile for French Polynesia.

The dissolution of the public industrial and commercial establishment (EPIC) is scheduled for November 30, 2013. This decision marks a major restructuring of the pearl sector, with the elimination of the organization responsible for the promotion and legal protection of the pearl.

Of the 12 employees at the Maison de la Perle, only one holds the status of seconded civil servant, while the other 11, under private contracts, will be laid off. This announcement was confirmed by Nuihau Laurey, Vice President of the government, who emphasized that this closure was part of a “rationalization of public action” and that the usefulness of the establishment was no longer justified.

According to him, much of the Maison de la Perle’s activities were already being handled by the Directorate of Marine Resources. In light of the lack of enthusiasm among pearl farmers and internal reorganizations, the government decided to reassign these missions to the Directorate of Marine Resources, leading to the closure of the institution.

Created in 2009, the Maison de la Perle was tasked with promoting and protecting the pearl and pearl products, as well as overseeing the sorting, classification, and evaluation of pearl production. This closure marks a turning point in the institutional approach to the sector, highlighting the challenges faced by the Tahitian pearl industry.

Contrary to some circulating reports, the closure of the institution will take place in December 2013 — not in August. This additional delay gives employees five months to prepare for their professional transition.

Regarding the 2013 budget allocated to the institution, the announced 735 million XPF includes a special subsidy of 500 million XPF. This funding had originally been earmarked for the creation of the SEM Tahiti Pearl Consortium under the previous administration. The Ministry recalls that the autonomist groups Tahoeraa and A Ti’a Porinetia voted for the dissolution of this SEM, which was deemed too costly given the country’s current budgetary constraints.

Today, the Maison de la Perle employs eight people. Among them, one person is seconded from the administration and will soon be reinstated in their original department. The other employees are undergoing dismissal procedures that will strictly comply with labor law, with special care given to ensuring each person is treated fairly and respectfully.

The Ministry emphasizes its commitment to managing this transition in accordance with social regulations and pays tribute to the dedication of the teams who have worked to promote Polynesian cultured pearls through this organization.

This decision, led by the Minister of Marine Resources Tearii Alpha, was validated during a recent session of the Council of Ministers.

Charged with promoting and legally protecting the Tahitian pearl, the institution was also tasked with sorting, classifying, and evaluating pearl production. However, many industry professionals had expressed reservations about its effectiveness. With an annual budget ranging between 250 and 300 million XPF — peaking at 735 million in 2013 — the usefulness of the institution had been seriously called into question.

The dissolution of the Maison de la Perle is part of a broader desire to “rationalize public action,” explained Vice President Nuihau Laurey. He reminded that the majority of the institution’s functions had previously been handled by the Directorate of Marine Resources, which will now take over these responsibilities. In a context of fiscal austerity, the government opted for this reassignment to keep public spending under control.

The Vice President also announced that other public institutions are currently under review for potential cost-saving measures. Three entities are receiving particular attention for possible dissolution or partial privatization. The executive intends to complete this review before the end of the year as part of the Growth Pact discussions with the State. Reducing public spending has been set as a priority, and targeted privatizations could be implemented depending on the conclusions of the ongoing evaluations.