BMSB Risk Season runs from 1 September 2025 to 30 April 2026. The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug continues to challenge importers, threaten Australia's biosecurity, and impact supply chains. Strict seasonal measures are enforced to protect the horticulture industry. Non-compliance can result in shipment delays or destruction.
What Importers Need to Know
Season dates: 1 September 2025 to 30 April 2026
Scope: Applies to goods shipped from high-risk and emerging risk countries
Compliance: The shipped on board date on the Ocean Bill of Lading determines when measures apply; gate in dates are not accepted
Surveillance: Heightened vessel monitoring and pre-arrival reporting apply to cargo from target risk countries
What is New This Season
China and South Korea added for heightened vessel checks
High-risk goods must be treated by an approved provider
Random inspections for goods from the UK, China, Japan, and South Korea
Airfreight from the USA and China may be inspected but does not require treatment
A full list of high-risk and target risk countries, as well as treatment requirements, can be found on the DAFF website.
Fumigate high-risk goods at origin whenever possible. Fumigation in Australia is an option but can add detention days and late dehire fees. Treating at origin ensures faster arrival, clearance, and delivery
Affected products: Wood, metals, machinery, vehicles, ceramics, glass, textiles, and more
Target risk countries: Most of Europe, USA, Canada, China, Japan, Korea, and others
Target risk goods are subject to random inspection
Other goods are not subject unless packed with high-risk items
Goods in iso-tanks or bulk-in-hold cargo are exempt
Pro-Tips for a Smooth BMSB Season
Educate your team on BMSB measures to ensure compliance
Allow extra lead time at origin for fumigation, typically around two weeks
Engage your logistics partner early due to high demand during the BMSB season
Factor in fumigation costs, which vary by port
Prioritize treatment at origin to avoid detention, shipping line backlogs, and late fees in Australia
Stay Ahead of BMSB Season Plan fumigation at origin, confirm risk classifications, and coordinate with your logistics partner to ensure smooth clearance and on-time delivery.
Need help planning your BMSB seasonal measures or upcoming bookings? Contact our team of experienced logistics specialists today.
