Why are black cultured pearls important to French Polynesia's exports?

Black cultured pearls are a vital component of the economy of French Polynesia, as they account for approximately two-thirds of the territory's total export earnings.1

These pearls are primarily cultivated from the black-lipped oyster (Pinctada margaritifera) in the lagoons of the Tuamotu Archipelago and the Gambier Islands. This industry serves as a crucial economic pillar, helping to compensate for the decline of traditional exports such as vanilla and the loss of revenue following the end of French nuclear testing activities in the region.12