UPDATE 4 - Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs (BMSB) – imports from Italy – Emergency Measures

Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) joined industry colleagues this afternoon (Thursday 8 February 2018) on a teleconference hosted by the Department of Agriculture & Water Resources to discuss ongoing processing of BMSB emergency procedures for containerised cargo ex Italy.
 
Depot representatives highlighted extensive delays in fumigation with one noting that they turned away 65 containers and another quoting a backlog of 117 containers to be processed.
 
In response, the department is currently considering options to allow fumigation at facilities other than those authorised under 1.1 and 1.3. Approved Arrangements. Industry feedback suggested that this may not solve the problem as while there may be more physical sites available, there remains a shortage of fumigators with the necessary expertise and accreditation to manage the workload.
 
The department made it clear that there are no alternate treatment options due to the seriousness of the risk. The department made reference to the detection of BMSB in Western Sydney as reported by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and the need to contain the risk to safeguard local industry … read more
 
In terms of LCL consignments, the department is examining options for alternate processes and will escalate engagement with key industry stakeholders. The target date for the formal release of revised processes is Wednesday 14 February 2018.
 
On a more positive note, FTA would like to acknowledge the support from Shipping Australia Limited (SAL) and their member shipping lines for the positive response to date in providing extended container detention periods during these extreme circumstances.
 
It is highly recommend that members make early contact with shipping lines for any affected containers as it is anticipated that concessions will continue to be made on a case by case basis rather than via any blanket extension in detention periods.
 
Please keep me in the loop on any shipping line correspondence via pzalai@FTAlliance.com.au
 
Paul Zalai FTA / APSA