Cook Islands discusses future of pearl industry
Updated
The future direction of the Cook Islands' revived pearl industry is to be defined at a two day national forum in Rarotonga.
Our reporter, Ulamila Wragg, says the Cook Islands Pearl Authority, set up two years ago to revive an ailing industry, is hosting an open forum with pearl farmers, retailers, exporters, jewellers and other stakeholders aimed at setting road map for the industry.
A report on strategic marketing plans put together by New Zealand consultants Brian Richards and Mike Hodges will be the centre of discussions.
The report suggests a need for a brand name for Cook Islands pearls.
It says it can't be black pearls, as that is what French Polynesia is known for.
Last year the consultants met with pearl farmers and other stake keyholders in the industry to assess problems and challenges facing them.
Only 40 farmers remain out of the 200-plus seven years ago who used to earn $US10 million a year.
The importation of cheap overseas pearls has been a problem and the pearl authority also wants the forum to discuss and agree on grading standards.
