Local pearl producers operating in northern Bali’s coastal villages have begun to develop world-class techniques that could see them rival some of the world’s biggest oyster producers.

A number of pearl breeding and producing companies are now operating in several villages in Gerokgak, Penyabaan and Tejakula. Among the companies are Atlas South Sea Pearl, Oricho, Cendana, Disthi Komala Bahari, Disthi Mutiara Suci, Baruna Bali Jaya and many others.

I Nyoman Sutrisna, head of the Buleleng Fishery and Marine office, told The Jakarta Post that the regency’s coastal zones were rich in marine and underwater treasures, including pearl oysters.

“We are now developing Pemuteran, Gerokgak and other smaller villages there as the regency’s marine and underwater research and development center,” Sutrisna said.

Pemuteran is now famous for its underwater and wate...