Brown Marmorated Stink Bug Season 2022-23 02/08/22

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) published the following Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) Update:

This issue contains a summary of changes for the 2022-23 BMSB measures.

Why BMSB?
The insect Halyomorpha halys (BMSB) is exotic to Australia and is an identified seasonal hitchhiker pest that has the potential to severely impact Australian and New Zealand agricultural industries.

BMSB is ranked number 9 in the National Priority Plant Pests list. It is known to feed on around 300 different plant species. Both juveniles and adults feed on, and severely damage fruit and vegetable crops. Australia and New Zealand remain free of BMSB, but our environment and climate is suitable to support the entry and establishment of BMSB.

Webpage updated

The BMSB webpage has been updated to reflect the upcoming season’s measures. 

For the upcoming BMSB risk season, biosecurity measures apply to:

• Certain goods manufactured in, or shipped from target risk countries, and/or
• Vessels that berth at, load or tranship from target risk countries.

The measures apply to goods shipped between 1 September and 30 April (inclusive) that arrive by sea cargo.

Changes to measures for the 2022-23 BMSB risk season

• Emerging risk countries will apply to China and UK only.
• Chapters 94 and 95 will be subject to random inspections (emerging risk countries only).
• 120 hours policy been amended to allow onshore re-treatment in certain situations where goods have been rolled (with evidence).
• Inspect (unpack) Inspections will now apply instead of Secure Seals intact inspections at Approved Arrangements.

For more information:

https://www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity-trade/import/before/brown-marmorated-stink-bugs