Hapag Lloyd - Shipping to Australia and New Zealand? Here’s an update on Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs

Dear Barbara,

The Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs (BMSB) present a risk for agriculture and horticulture in both Australia and New Zealand. Therefore, the Australian Department of Agriculture and the New Zealand Ministry of Primary Industries have issued revised measures and requirements regarding fumigation against BMSB. Both countries have aligned policies with few country-specific guidelines which can be found in detail here.

For your reference, please find below the timeframe of the risk season, determined by the shipped on board date, as indicated on the Ocean Bill of Lading:

• From risk countries to Australia – September 1, 2021 to May 31, 2022 (inclusive)
• From risk countries to New Zealand – September 1, 2021 to April 30, 2022 (inclusive)

The 2021-22 BMSB risk season seasonal measures will apply to targeted goods manufactured and shipped from target risk countries, that have been shipped within the above-mentioned dates, and to vessels that berth, load, or transship from target risk countries within the same period.

For your reference, the below table details the list of risk countries:

Please note that the fumigation is the responsibility of cargo interests. The requirement extends to cargo loaded in consolidated shipments and full container loads. Cargo in Open Top, Flat rack or break bulk must be fumigated at origin. Break bulk cargo and special equipment being transshipped or transiting through affected countries will in certain cases also require fumigation. Please be advised that both governments are on high alert concerning shipments from risk countries, and thus, the regulations can extend to the immediate export of cargo that has not been treated or has been treated by an unapproved provider.

Do you need more detailed information?

• For more Australia-related information please visit the website of the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment
• For more New Zealand-related information please visit the website of the Ministry of Primary Industries

In case you may have questions regarding applicability of the rule to your specific cargo due for shipment, please contact the relevant Department of Agriculture in Australia or the Ministry for Primary Industries in New Zealand.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact your local Hapag-Lloyd office.