Seasonal Measures for Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) in Australia

As part of Australia’s ongoing biosecurity efforts, the seasonal measures for Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) will be enforced for targeted goods manufactured in, or shipped from, target risk countries. These measures apply to goods shipped between 1 September and 30 April (inclusive) and to vessels that berth, load, or tranship from target risk countries within the same period.

Key Dates and Compliance

The critical date for compliance is the shipped on board date, as stated on the Ocean Bill of Lading. Please note that “Gate in” dates and times will not be accepted to determine when goods were shipped.

Goods Classification and Treatment

• Target High Risk Goods: These require mandatory treatment. If untreated, they will be denied entry or directed for export.
• Target Risk Goods: These will be subject to random inspection.
• Other Goods: While not subject to BMSB measures, these goods will fall under the measures if packed with target high-risk or risk goods.

Exemptions
Goods shipped in iso-tanks and as bulk-in-holds of cargo vessels are exempt from BMSB measures.

Treatment of Target High Risk Goods

Goods classified as target high risk must be treated by an approved provider listed on the “List of Treatment Providers.” Certificates from unregistered, suspended, or withdrawn providers will not be accepted. Containerised goods will be directed for onshore treatment, while break bulk will be directed for export. Importantly, break bulk goods, including those shipped on flat racks and open top containers, must be treated offshore prior to arrival in Australia. Onshore treatment is not permitted for these goods.

Containerised Goods (FCL, FCX)

Containerised cargo arriving in sealed six hard sided containers with target high risk goods can be treated offshore, or onshore at the container level. Seabridge recommends offshore treatment for containers subject to BMSB measures to aide in faster border clearances upon arrival. A sealing declaration may be required in specific circumstances, such as when goods were containerised and sealed before 1 September but shipped after this date.

Less than Container Load (LCL) and Freight of All Kinds (FAK) Containers

LCL and FAK containers containing target high-risk goods will be managed at the container level for BMSB risk before deconsolidation. After BMSB risk management, consignments within these containers will undergo processing for all other biosecurity interventions.

Known Risk Pathways and Supply Chains

Goods from known risk pathways or supply chains with previous BMSB detections may be subject to additional intervention, including treatment and/or inspection.

Treatment of BMSB Goods in Australia and New Zealand

BMSB seasonal measures apply to goods imported into Australian territory. Australia will not conduct BMSB treatments for goods transhipping to New Zealand, and goods bound for Australia cannot be treated in New Zealand.

For further information on BMSB seasonal measures, please visit the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry website.