Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) Season 2025-26
What Importers Need to Know
The Department of Agriculture has announced the measures for the upcoming Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) season for 2025–26. These rules are designed to protect Australian agriculture from this invasive pest and apply to goods shipped from specific countries during the designated season.
BMSB Season Dates
The 2025–26 BMSB season will be in effect for goods shipped between 1st September 2025 and 30th April 2026. During this period, certain imported goods are subject to mandatory inspections and treatments to prevent the introduction of the pest into Australia.
Target Risk Countries
Emerging Risk Countries
Some countries are considered higher risk for BMSB incursions, and cargo from these nations may be selected for random inspections upon arrival. The identified emerging risk countries for this season include:
Country-Specific Random Inspection Periods
Random inspections for high-risk cargo vary by country during the 2025–26 BMSB season:
Japan: Random inspections apply to shipments between 1st September and 31st December 2025.
South Korea: Random inspections apply to shipments between 1st September and 31st December 2025.
United Kingdom: Random inspections apply to shipments between 1st December 2025 and 30th April 2026.
Special note for China: random inspections will apply to goods shipped from 1st September to 31st December 2025.
Additional Inspections for Emerging Risk Countries
In addition to the high-risk goods previously listed, goods classified under Chapters 39, 94, and 95 will also be subject to random inspections, but only for shipments from emerging risk countries.
These measures aim to reduce the risk of BMSB entering Australia while maintaining smooth operations for compliant importers.
High-Risk Goods
Certain categories of goods are classified as high-risk for BMSB contamination and will require mandatory treatment before or upon arrival. These goods are primarily those that can harbor the pest in wooden packing materials, metal components, or machinery. Key tariff classifications include:
Wood & articles of wood
Copper and other base metals
Machinery, boilers, and mechanical appliances
Electrical machinery and equipment
Glass, ceramics, and stone products
Vehicles, ships, aircraft, and rolling stock
Textile floor coverings and carpets
This is not an exhaustive list, and importers should carefully check the specific tariff classifications relevant to their shipments.
Untreatable Cargo
Certain shipments are classified as untreatable cargo and will face extra scrutiny before loading. The following table summarises countries, routing, and whether treatment is required:
| Load Country | Routing | BMSB Treatment Required | Additional Charges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | Direct / Via Singapore | Yes | – |
| Belgium | Direct | Yes | – |
| The Netherlands | Antwerp | Yes | – |
| France | Antwerp | Yes | – |
| Italy | Direct | Yes | Yes |
| Spain | Singapore | Yes | Yes |
| USA | Los Angeles / Atlanta / Chicago / New York | Yes | Yes |
| Turkey | Singapore | Yes | Yes |
Important: Untreatable cargo may require BMSB declarations co-signed by the destination customs broker. Misdeclarations may lead to delays or rejection at origin.
What Importers Should Do
Declaration Requirements
To ensure smooth clearance:
All declarations must be included in the Master Consolidator’s declaration at the destination.
A no declaration, no load policy applies.
Untreatable cargo may require additional co-signed documentation with the destination customs broker.
Importers are strongly encouraged to inform their overseas counterparts about the BMSB declaration requirements to avoid delays or fines.
Key Reminders
Only target high-risk goods will incur mandatory BMSB treatment charges where FCL/Part Treated options exist.
Offshore treatments will be applied wherever possible for Direct Services.
Rates are subject to change and may vary depending on location, shipment size, and treatment type.
Cargo Declarations & Mis-declarations
Accurate cargo declaration is critical. Mis-declarations may result in significant costs including:
BMSB Mis-Declaration Fee
Treatment Costs
Container Detention Costs
Re-export or import costs
Payment of these fees is required before goods can be released from CFS facilities.
All consignees must submit FID (Final Import Declaration) to ensure timely container release. Late FID submissions may result in delays or additional charges.
Packaging & Treatment Guidelines
Impervious wrappings must be removed, opened, or slashed to allow treatment contact.
Shippers using Asian gateways (Singapore, Port Kelang, Hong Kong, Busan) or non-target origin countries must disclose the country of manufacture prior to booking.
To reduce delays and extra costs, it’s advised that goods from high-risk countries are treated before shipment.
To ensure smooth customs clearance during the BMSB season:
Plan shipments in advance: Account for possible delays due to inspections.
Notify your logistics provider: Ensure they are aware of BMSB requirements for your cargo.
Treat high-risk goods as required: Treatments may include fumigation, heat treatment, or other approved methods.
Stay informed: Check for updates from the Department of Agriculture throughout the season.
At ICS Global Logistics, we work closely with our clients to navigate BMSB season requirements, helping to reduce delays and ensure compliance. By preparing shipments in advance, our team can assist in managing high-risk cargo and supporting a smooth import process.
Contact us today to discuss how we can help you manage your shipments during the 2025–26 BMSB season and keep your supply chain moving efficiently.
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Get in touch with us if you have any queries and we will get back to you as soon as possible.