Fiji imports pearls worth $50 million annually from Tahiti, Australia, and Indonesia, primarily to satisfy demands in its tourism sector. A notable portion of these imports includes freshwater pearls sourced from China.
Claude Michel Prevost, the founder and director of Civa Pearl Fiji, emphasizes the pressing need to enhance local pearl production, which will entail recruiting more oyster pearl farmers within Fiji. Recently, Civa Pearl Fiji announced a partnership with the retail chain Jack’s of Fiji, aimed at expanding its distribution network for pearls. According to Prevost, this collaboration will drive their production efforts, aiming to escalate pearl output from 10,000 to 25,000 over the next five years.
Prevost highlighted that the current imports represent only the declared value in Fiji; the reality is likely higher. He pointed out that Tahiti sells pearls worth over $250 million to its tourists—a significant figure considering it attracts about a third of the tourists that Fiji hosts, illustrating the potential for the Fijian pearl market to thrive.
To meet the surging demand, Prevost argues that Fiji requires additional pearl producers, estimating the need for at least 30 more producers to cater especially to the tourist market. He also underscored the unique allure of Fijian pearls due to their distinct colors, presenting a competitive advantage in the broader market.
Furthermore, Prevost called on stakeholders to reassess existing legal frameworks that govern aquaculture activities in Fiji, particularly the accessibility of water resources required for pearl farming. He previously indicated to the government that Fiji possesses vast untapped potential within the aquaculture and pearl industries, and it is currently lagging in capitalizing on these opportunities.
Civa Pearls Fiji operates with a small team of 10 workers, which it plans to expand to 25 over the next four years, while also partnering with local communities to cultivate and eventually sell pearls back to the company.
This article illustrates the significant growth potential for Fiji’s pearl industry, as local production could reduce the dependency on imports while fostering job creation and community engagement. With targeted investments and strategic partnerships, there is hope for a flourishing aquaculture sector that celebrates Fijian heritage and diversifies the economy.
In summary, there is a strong call for development in Fiji’s pearl industry to meet both local demand and capitalize on tourism opportunities, marking a bright pathway toward increased economic growth and sustainability.
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