2024 Stink Bug Season: Are you prepared?‍

The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) is a pest that continues to challenge the shipping industry and threaten Australia's biosecurity. Each year, this invasive species puts pressure on supply chain operations, as strict government regulations are put in place to protect the Australian horticulture industry.

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What APAC shippers need to know: 

During the stink bug season official BMSB seasonal measures apply to goods that are considered of risk and manufactured in or shipped from the risk countries. Incorrect management or non-compliance with quarantine measures could see your shipments significantly delayed or even destroyed. 

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BMSB Season dates: 

BMSB seasonal measures apply to vessels that berth, load or tranship cargo from target risk countries between 1 September and 30 April inclusive. 

The shipped on board date, as indicated on the Ocean Bill of Lading, is the date used to determine when goods have been shipped. “Gate in” dates and times are not accepted.

During this time there is increased surveillance for cargo vessels from high-risk countries. There is also additional pre-arrival reporting for vessel operators.

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High-risk Countries: 

China and the Republic of South Korea have been identified as emerging risk countries and have been added to the heightened vessel surveillance in 2024. RoRo vessels that berth, load or tranship cargo from China, UK and/or Republic of Korea will be subject to heightened vessel surveillance, and risk management measures where necessary.

As emerging risk countries for the 2024 BMSB season, shipments from China and UK may be selected for a random onshore inspection.

• China – random inspections will apply to goods shipped between 1 September to 31 December (inclusive)
• United Kingdom – random inspections will apply to goods shipped between 1 December to 30 April (inclusive)

A complete list of high-risk countries can be found on the DAFF website.

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BMSB Treatment 

• If your goods are classed as target high risk, they will require mandatory treatment.
• If your goods are classed as target risk, they will be subject to random inspection.
• If your goods are not found in either category, they are not subject to BMSB measures, however, will be subject to the measures if packed with target high risk or risk goods.
• Goods shipped in iso-tanks and as bulk-in-holds of cargo vessels are not subject to the measures.

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More detailed information on target risk countries and goods, treatment types for BMSB can be found on the DAFF website.

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Pro-tips for navigating BMSB season with confidence.

BMSB Season brings additional compliance, lead times and costs for shippers, as BMSB Seasonal Measures are enforced. Here’s how you can stay on top: 

• Familiarise your team and yourself with the BMSB measures to ensure a smooth process for your cargo.
• Factor in additional lead time at the country of origin to comply with the required fumigation (2 weeks)
• Engage with your Explorate Ops representative as early as possible! Demand during BMSB season is high, do not risk missing your ready dates. 
• Be aware of additional fumigation charges. These vary port to port. ‍
• Do the BMSB fumigation at the country of origin, as Australia will see increased shipping line detention and possible backlogs.

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Need help planning your BMSB seasonal measures or peak season bookings? Contact our team of experienced logistics specialists today.

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