With the arrival of the stink bug season, Australia and New Zealand are intensifying efforts to prevent the infiltration of the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB). This year, the surveillance list for Australia has been expanded to include China and South Korea, highlighting the growing concern over this agricultural pest.
The BMSB, known scientifically as Halyomorpha halys, poses a threat to fruit and vegetable crops by feeding on them, potentially causing extensive damage. Originating from East Asia, the pest has established populations in North America and Europe, though it has not yet become widespread in Australia, New Zealand, or Chile. Recognized as a 'hitchhiker pest,' the BMSB can spread through international trade, often seeking refuge in shipping containers and other cargo to escape cold weather.
Importers bear the brunt of responsibility for adhering to BMSB requirements, ensuring cargoes from affected regions are treated and certified before shipment. However, the role of ship operators and crews is also critical. They must remain vigilant for signs of BMSB and other exotic pests onboard and report any findings to quarantine authorities upon arrival. New Zealand and Australia have coordinated their efforts to implement seasonal measures against the BMSB, despite some differences in their specific requirements and procedures due to domestic policies.
The risk season, which commenced on 1 September 2024, applies to various goods, including vehicles and machinery parts, shipped from designated risk countries and arriving before 30 April 2025. Australia has specifically added China and South Korea to its list of targeted countries, raising the total to 41. Additionally, China and the United Kingdom have been identified as 'emerging risk countries,' subjecting their shipments to potential random inspections upon arrival in Australia.
Both countries require BMSB treatment providers in targeted nations to register under a joint Offshore BMSB Treatment Providers Scheme, ensuring consistency in treatment standards. It is important to note that goods intended for Australia cannot be treated in New Zealand and vice versa, with non-compliant items likely facing export upon arrival. The measures in place are subject to adjustment throughout the season based on ongoing risk assessments.
Chile has also implemented similar measures to manage the risk posed by BMSB, requiring inspection and fumigation of certain imports, primarily from the United States. As the season progresses, all involved in the import and shipping industries must stay informed of the latest requirements and procedures to prevent the spread of this pest.
For detailed information on the seasonal measures, members and clients are encouraged to visit the official websites of the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries.
Source: Gard