Why does Australian-bound cargo require fumigation for the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug?
The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) is a pest that potentially can have a severe
impact on the Australian agricultural industry if not stopped from entering the
country.
The bug feeds on many different plants and can severely damage fruits, vegetables and crops. Currently the BMSB has expanded rapidly throughout Europe and North America and is causing serious damage to regional agriculture businesses.
Due to the danger of this pest for our Australian farmers, the Australian government has implemented measures to stop the beetle from arriving on its shores.
During the BMSB season which usually runs from September to May, it is mandatory to treat certain commodities (target high-risk goods) that are manufactured in or originating from countries that are known to have the bug (target risk countries).
The following countries below have been categorized as target risk:
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Goods that are classed as target risk goods are not required to be treated but are subject to onshore intervention through random inspections upon arrival in Australia. Only target high-risk commodities are mandated to be fumigated by the Australian Department of Agriculture.
There are three acceptable BMSB treatments which are:
- Heat
- Methyl Bromide
- Sulfuryl Fluoride
The treatment needs to be performed by an approved treatment provider offshore or onshore. There are currently 210 approved offshore treatment providers across many countries.
The offshore treatment for break bulk cargo is mandatory and untreated break bulk cargo identified on arrival will be denied discharge and will be directed for export upon arrival.
Please note that containerized cargo FCL (full container load) and FCX full container with multiple house bills of lading) can be treated offshore or onshore.
LCL (less than container load) and FAK (freight all kinds) containers with target high risk goods are currently managed at the container level.
More details on the upcoming BMSB season can be found here.
DGX-Dependable Global Express highly recommends that if your goods fall under the target high-risk group and come from a target risk country you get your goods fumigated at origin to avoid delays and extra costs upon arrival. As in previous seasons, DGX’s USA to Australia FAKs will be treated by an approved treatment provider at origin.
Should you need advice or consultation regarding the BMSB measures, call on the professionals at DGX. Email us, reach out to your local office or call toll free in the USA at 1-888-488-4888 and we can help you.
