Bahrain is stepping up efforts to protect and promote its centuries-old natural pearl legacy, with Industry and Commerce Minister Abdulla Fakhro outlining a comprehensive framework to regulate the trade, strengthen market oversight and elevate Bahrain’s status as a global hub for the much-in-demand treasured jewellery pieces.
In an official response to a parliamentary question submitted by Shura Council services committee vice-chairman Talal Al Mannai, the minister detailed the legal, technical and strategic measures the kingdom has adopted to safeguard the authenticity of natural pearls and support the sector’s long-term sustainability.
Mr Fakhro emphasised that Bahrain remains ‘the only country in the world that prohibits the trade and circulation of non-natural pearls’, citing Decree-Law (10) of 1990 and its amendments as the backbone of Bahrain’s protective framework.
“Our ministry carries out continuous field inspections to ensure that local markets remain free of cultured pearls,” he said. “No pearl jewellery may be sold in Bahrain unless it is accompanied by an accredited examination certificate issued by the Bahrain Institute for Pearls and Gemstones (Danat).”
He added that these inspections aim to preserve Bahrain’s heritage and ensure consumer confidence, especially given the rise of cultured pearls across global markets.
The minister highlighted the pivotal role of Danat, which is licenced as Bahrain’s national laboratory for pearl and gemstone testing and certification.
“Danat is a national laboratory of international standards,” Mr Fakhro explained. “We conduct annual oversight and auditing of its operations to ensure strict compliance with all requirements stipulated in the executive regulations.”
All imported pearls undergo laboratory testing before entering Bahrain, where natural pearls are separated from cultured ones. Only the former are allowed into the country.
While Mr Al Mannai requested figures on imports, exports and locally-harvested pearls, the minister reiterated that valuation is highly variable.
“The market value of natural pearls depends on weight, colour, shape, size, surface quality and whether they are loose or strung,” Mr Fakhro noted. “Merchants’ assessments also vary, which makes fixed valuation difficult.”
He added that much of the natural pearl harvest from Bahraini waters was not sold on the open market but instead retained or exchanged through private agreements between divers and merchants.
Mr Fakhro outlined an ambitious strategy to enhance Bahrain’s global profile in the natural pearl trade. “We’re working with Danat and a wide network of partners to promote the importance of natural pearls through joint initiatives, exhibitions and international outreach,” he said. “Our goal is to position Bahrain as a leading global reference point for natural pearl authenticity and certification.”
He added that the ministry is upgrading governance systems for pearl monitoring in co-operation with Danat and the Ministry’s Testing, Metrology and Inspection departments.
“This integrated approach strengthens oversight, supports traders and protects consumers,” Mr Fakhro stressed.
On co-operation with other authorities, including the Diving and Pearl Council established in 2001, the minister said the ministry has consistently worked with national partners from both the public and private sectors.
“We participate in regular co-ordination meetings to discuss matters related to developing this sector, regulating the diving profession and overseeing licencing procedures,” he explained.
Mr Fakhro reaffirmed Bahrain’s commitment to preserving its natural pearl heritage as a national treasure.
“Natural pearls are part of Bahrain’s identity,” he said. “Protecting them is not just an economic duty but a cultural responsibility – one we take with the utmost seriousness.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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