BMSB Season 2026–27: What Australian Importers Need to Know

Every year from September to April, Australia applies extra biosecurity measures to stop the brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) from arriving in cargo. If you import from Europe, North America or other target countries during this period, these rules can add cost and delay if you’re not prepared.

Key dates for 2026–27

The 2026–27 seasonal measures apply to target goods shipped between 1 September 2026 and 30 April 2027 inclusive. The shipped-on-board date on your bill of lading is what counts.

Which countries are affected?

The target risk countries include the United States, Canada, and most of Europe, including Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, France, Spain, Belgium, Austria, Greece and Poland. Vessels from China, Japan and the Republic of Korea are subject to heightened surveillance. Always check the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s current list before you ship.

Which goods are affected?

Target high-risk goods

These must be treated for BMSB, either before they leave the origin country or on arrival in Australia. They include a wide range of manufactured goods, such as machinery, vehicles and parts, steel, timber, stone and ceramic products, and many types of equipment.

Target risk goods

These don’t need mandatory treatment, but they can be randomly selected for onshore inspection. They include goods such as plastics, rubber, paper and some chemicals.

Treatment options

• Offshore treatment: by a treatment provider approved by the Australian Government, with a treatment certificate sent with your documents. This is strongly recommended.
• Onshore treatment: on arrival in Australia. Capacity is limited, so there can be queues, extra storage costs and delays.

Common treatments include heat treatment and fumigation. For 2026–27, ethyl formate has been added as a new onshore treatment option. For FCL containers, treatment must be done at the container level, so goods can’t be unpacked before they’re treated.

How to avoid delays

1. Check whether your goods are target high-risk or target risk goods before you order.
2. Ask your supplier to arrange offshore treatment with an approved provider.
3. Make sure the treatment certificate is ready when the goods ship.
4. Allow extra time for shipments that arrive during the season.
5. Avoid mixing high-risk goods with other cargo in the same container.

We can help

We’ll check whether your goods fall under the measures and coordinate treatment with your supplier and our overseas agents. Read our guides to shipping from the USA, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands, or contact our team.