Brown marmorated stink bug: requirements for importers

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Brown marmorated stink bug: requirements for importers

DBL Freight

7 September 2024

Detailed Report on BMSB Regulations for Imported Cargo to New Zealand (2024)

The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) poses a significant threat to New Zealand’s agricultural industry, as it can cause damage to crops and plants. To mitigate this risk, strict regulations have been put in place for imported cargo, particularly during high-risk seasons.

BMSB Risk Cargo

The New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has identified specific types of cargo that pose a higher risk of BMSB infestation. These are generally goods that are frequently stored outdoors or shipped from BMSB-infested areas. The following commodities are considered BMSB risk cargo:

Vehicles and machinery: Including cars, trucks, tractors, and earth-moving equipment.
Automotive parts and components.
Agricultural and construction machinery.
Containers of breakbulk goods: These include large metal objects like pipes, cables, and electrical components.
Wooden products and timber: Packaged or untreated wooden items like pallets and crates.
Furniture: Wooden and metal furniture.
Household items: Items like personal effects and used goods, especially those with outdoor exposure.

Excluded Cargo: Some goods like fresh food, seafood, and chemicals are typically excluded from BMSB regulations, as they are not at risk of harboring the pest.

BMSB Risk Countries

The BMSB is native to East Asia but has spread to many parts of the world. New Zealand has identified several countries where the BMSB is established or is considered a high risk for infestation. Cargo originating from or transiting through these countries requires stringent biosecurity measures. As of 2024, the BMSB risk countries include:

United States
Italy
France
Germany
Japan
Romania
Russia
Spain
Switzerland
Greece
Hungary
Portugal
Turkey

For the complete list of BMSB countries, please visit MPI website – www.mpi.govt.nz

Cargo from these countries is subject to strict inspection and treatment protocols. If cargo is transshipped through these risk countries, it may also be subject to the same treatments.

BMSB Regulation Period

New Zealand enforces specific biosecurity measures during the BMSB season, which generally corresponds to the bug’s active period in the risk countries. The BMSB regulation period typically spans from September 1st to April 30th each year. During this period, heightened inspection and treatment measures apply to goods arriving in New Zealand from BMSB risk countries.

September to April: This period covers the high-risk season for BMSB, when the bug is most likely to be a stowaway in containers and cargo. Importers must ensure their goods comply with MPI regulations and undergo the required treatments before entering New Zealand.

Accepted Treatments for BMSB

To prevent the introduction of BMSB into New Zealand, imported cargo from risk countries must undergo approved treatment methods before or upon arrival. The following treatment methods are accepted by MPI:

Heat Treatment:
- Minimum temperature of 56°C for 30 minutes.
- This method is particularly effective for large machinery and breakbulk items.
Methyl Bromide Fumigation:
- Minimum dosage rate of 48g/m³ for 24 hours at 10°C or higher.
- This fumigant is commonly used for vehicles, parts, and wooden items.
- Cargo fumigated with methyl bromide must be ventilated properly before release to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Sulfuryl Fluoride Fumigation:
- Dosage of 24g/m³ for 12 hours at 10°C or higher.
- Sulfuryl fluoride is an alternative to methyl bromide and is widely used for its effectiveness and lower environmental impact.
Offshore Treatments:
- Cargo can be treated offshore (in the country of origin) by MPI-approved treatment providers.
- Proof of treatment must be provided to New Zealand authorities upon the cargo’s arrival. Offshore treatments help avoid delays at the port of entry.

Importer Obligations

To comply with BMSB regulations, importers need to ensure that:

Goods are treated using an MPI-approved method either before shipping or upon arrival.
The necessary documentation (like treatment certificates) is submitted to MPI.
Containers and breakbulk cargo are cleaned and free of any visible contamination before shipping.

Non-compliance with BMSB regulations can result in delays, fines, or even the refusal of entry for non-compliant cargo.

Compliance and Inspection

MPI actively inspects incoming cargo from BMSB risk countries during the high-risk period. Random inspections are conducted, and non-compliant shipments may be directed for treatment, re-exported, or destroyed if the risk is deemed too high. To ensure compliance:

Pre-arrival certification for BMSB treatment is strongly recommended.
Cargo inspection: MPI may require post-treatment verification to ensure that the treatment was effective.

Summary

BMSB Risk Cargo: Vehicles, machinery, automotive parts, timber, wooden furniture.
BMSB Risk Countries: United States, Italy, France, Germany, Japan, etc.
BMSB Regulation Period: September 1st to April 30th.
Accepted Treatments: Heat treatment, methyl bromide fumigation, sulfuryl fluoride fumigation,

For more information, please visit MPI website – www.mpi.govt.nz

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