The latest information on pearl farming in Tahiti

At the request of the Marine Resources Directorate (DRM), ICP-Texinfine has expanded its operations to pearl farming in French Polynesia, joining a research project aimed at improving pearl quality. Simultaneously, the laboratory is working on a program to produce nuclei from powdered local pearl oyster shells, thereby enhancing the independence and sustainability of the pearl industry while boosting local employment.

During recent discussions, Marine Resources Minister Temauri Foster emphasized the importance of ensuring the economic viability of local nucleus production. This need has grown more urgent due to the declining supply of Mississippi mussels, which has significantly impacted global nucleus availability.

Dr. Gilles Gutierrez, CEO of ICP-Texinfine and recipient of the 2009 Louis Pasteur Medal, presented the DRM with a first batch of next-generation reconstituted nuclei. These nuclei will soon undergo grafting tests on pearl oysters, paving the way for a strengthened partnership to position Tahitian pearls as a 100% Polynesian product in the international market.

Beyond its pearl farming research, ICP-Texinfine continues to study Polynesian natural resources. Using extracts from Tahitian vanilla, the company has developed DNA-PKASE INHIBAT, a nutritional supplement with antimutagenic effects. Similarly, research on the algae Padina pavonica has led to the creation of DICTYOLONE, a supplement that promotes bone density and skin health.

Given Polynesia's exceptional natural resources, ICP-Texinfine is considering establishing a local laboratory dedicated to marine pharmacological formulations. Both the minister and researchers share a common goal: to sustainably and responsibly develop the exploitation of Polynesia’s natural treasures.

This achievement stems from close collaboration between CMNP, SEFI, and pearl industry professionals.
The 21st cohort, comprising 10 pearl farming trainees, was commended for their dedication. During their first year, students completed:

• Skills refresher courses
• Professional Diving Diploma Level 1 (DPP1)
• Comprehensive pearl production training

The 20th grafting specialization cohort achieved excellent results: 7 of 9 trainees certified after four-month internships. This success reflects the commitment of private/public partners who provided practice materials. Graduates now qualify as professional grafters - a pivotal industry role.

Selection for the 22nd cohort admitted 11 new trainees through rigorous psychotechnical testing. They'll begin with SEFI-upgrading courses before full integration at Rangiroa.

Bruno Maetz, renowned pearl farmer, attested during CMNP's advisory council to graduates' value-added contributions, noting their work ethic and efficiency. He plans continued recruitment from future cohorts.

CMNP Director Rosita Leduc reaffirmed the center's mission to train skilled professionals vital to pearl farm success. Since its 1988 establishment, CMNP remains French Polynesia's premier grafting specialization hub, strengthening sector professionalism.

A Chinese pearl oyster grafter was caught carrying 1,449 high-quality black pearls, skillfully concealed in liquid soap bottles and a powdered chocolate box. The seized lot, valued at over 1,343,000 XPF, resulted in confiscation and substantial fines.

Weeks earlier, on NZ Flight 41 to Auckland, inspectors discovered 3,739 undeclared black pearls in a professional pearl driller's luggage - including over 400 rejects. These decisive actions safeguard Tahitian pearls' international reputation.

Customs' vigilance extends beyond pearls. Since January, 430 kg of prohibited nuclei have been intercepted in express parcels. These nuclei, made from protected giant clams (regulated by the Washington Convention), violate Decree 1240/CM of August 30, 2007.

French Polynesian customs reinforce their critical role as guardians of pearl excellence. Rigorous monitoring of pearl/nuclei imports, exports, and domestic circulation remains paramount. Nineteen pearl-related cases recorded this year demonstrate the scale of illicit activity and the importance of customs penalties.

Facing threats to this economic cornerstone, Polynesian customs reaffirm their absolute commitment to defending Tahitian pearls' quality and global prestige.