Marine biologist Marilyn Vilisoni explains the processes involved in pearl farming at the J Hunter Pearls farm off the Savusavu coast.
Source: MINISTRY OF INFORMATION
Government’s continuous commitment towards the pearl oyster project demonstrates the growing contribution of this sector to Fiji’s socio economic status.
Ministry of Fisheries permanent secretary Inoke Wainiqolo said that pearl oyster project has a vision of being the leading producer and marketer of premium quality pearls and black pearl products in the Pacific region
“The overall strategic target is to promote and facilitate the sustainable development of a Cultured Pearl Industry that will contribute F$50 million or more to the National Domestic Product by year 2014 and thereafter,” Mr Wainiqolo said.
“Fiji has numerous suitable sites for pearl farming with rich in nutrients, open reef system with excellent environmental setting for pearl culture. These conditions boost the growth of oysters and pearls.”
The permanent secretary added that the type of work involved best suits rural or maritime communities with spat collection
from the wild, collecting mother of pearl oysters, fishing, diving and cleaning of oysters which are available to both men and women in rural communities.
The pearl industry has extended from three (3) commercial farms producing pearls in 2005 to seven (7) locally owned and two (2) foreign owned pearl farms to date.