Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has finalised the seasonal measures for Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB).
Season commences 1st September, 2026 > 30th April, 2027
38 target risk countries
23 high-risk tariff chapters
Key things to know:
* It’s about country of MANUFACTURE, not just port of departure. A shipment from a “safe” port can still be caught if the goods were made in a risk country.
* Mandatory treatment applies to goods from 38 countries, including the US, Canada, and most of Europe (Türkiye, Russia, Ukraine, and the Balkans included).
* China, Japan & South Korea aren’t on the mandatory goods list, but vessels that berth, load or tranship there face heightened inspection.
* High-risk goods span everything from timber, ceramics and glass, to base metals, machinery, vehicles and vessels (chapters 44-89).
What’s changed this season:
* Ethyl Formate approved as a new onshore treatment option
* Rolled Goods Policy has been discontinued
* Safeguarding Arrangement Scheme has been discontinued (no carryover from 2025-26 approvals)
* One untreated high-risk LCL line will mean that the WHOLE container gets treated at destination, at the cargo owner’s cost.
It is very important that importers not wait until September. Talk to your suppliers now, confirm your sourcing countries, and get treatment booked in advance. Treatment slots get tight fast once the season kicks in.
Need help figuring out if your cargo is affected? Reach out, we are always happy to talk you through it.
