BMSB Season 2026-2027 – Australia
Dear Valued Clients,
The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) risk season is fast approaching. Please review the below information to ensure your shipments remain compliant and avoid delays, treatment costs, storage charges, or unwanted biosecurity intervention.
BMSB Risk Season
The 2026-27 BMSB season applies to certain goods shipped to Australia as sea cargo between 1 September 2026 and 30 April 2027 (inclusive). There have been no significant changes to the season dates, target high-risk goods, or target risk countries for the 2026-27 season.
What’s New for 2026-27?
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has advised the following key updates for the 2026-27 season:
- New onshore treatment option: Ethyl Formate has been added as an approved BMSB treatment option.
- Rolled Goods Policy removed.
- Safeguarding Scheme removed.
Affected Cargo
BMSB measures apply to:
- Target high-risk goods.
- Certain target risk goods.
- Goods manufactured in or shipped from designated BMSB target risk countries.
- Cargo transported as sea freight during the BMSB risk season.
High-risk commodities typically include:
- Machinery and mechanical equipment
- Vehicles and vehicle parts
- Metal products
- Construction materials
- Industrial equipment
Importers should review upcoming shipments to determine whether their cargo falls within a target risk category.
Treatment Requirements
Breakbulk, Flat Rack & Open Top Cargo
- Must be treated in accordance with DAFF BMSB requirements.
- Offshore treatment remains the preferred option for many breakbulk cargoes.
- Untreated high-risk cargo may be subjected to additional intervention on arrival.
FCL Containerised Cargo
- May be treated offshore or onshore where permitted under current DAFF requirements.
LCL Cargo
- Treatment requirements will depend on the cargo type, origin and packing arrangements.
We strongly recommend confirming treatment requirements prior to booking to avoid costly delays.
Recommended Actions
| Action Item | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Review upcoming shipments | Check origins, cargo type and shipment dates. |
| Confirm treatment requirements | Arrange treatment well before cargo departure. |
| Check documentation | Ensure treatment certificates and supporting documents are available. |
| Engage early | Contact SILA before booking if uncertain about BMSB applicability. |
| Monitor compliance | Maintain communication with suppliers and treatment providers. |
Should you have any questions regarding your shipments or BMSB requirements, please contact your SILA representative.