Pearl farming is a missed opportunity in Fiji due to the absence of the legal framework to develop aquaculture, which can be a great business to attract overseas buyers.
This was highlighted by Taveuni pearl farmer, Claude Prevost who stressed the enormous potential for Fiji in aquaculture which can be a billion-dollar export in a year as we have resources available.
Prevost says there is always a market for charming pearls which can be a significant economic driver in Fiji.
He says weather is a big challenge which can be mitigated with better farming techniques and spreading farmers in different locations.
He further says people living in rural areas can also find employment opportunities in this kind of business which would minimise the urban drift.
Prevost currently runs a Pearl Farming business and employs nine individuals.
