BMSB Heat Treatment: Essential Guide for Importers in the 2023-24 Season

Introduction: The Expanding Threat of Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs

As we enter the 2023-24 shipping season, importers and logistics professionals face a growing challenge: the rapid expansion of the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) throughout Europe and North America. This invasive pest poses a significant threat to agriculture and ecosystems, prompting authorities to implement stricter measures to prevent its spread. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the latest BMSB heat treatment requirements and how FreightAmigo can support you in navigating these complex regulations.

The Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has updated its BMSB seasonal measures based on scientific data, intelligence, and evidence gathered from the previous season's onshore verification activities. These measures aim to protect Australia's biosecurity while facilitating smooth international trade. Let's dive into the key aspects of the 2023-24 BMSB regulations and how they may impact your shipments.

What's New for the 2023-24 BMSB Season?

Before we delve into the details, here are the crucial updates for the upcoming season:

• The measures apply to certain goods shipped from September 1, 2023, to April 30, 2024.
• Uzbekistan has been added to the Target Risk Country list.
• There are now 39 High Risk Target Countries, including Japan (with heightened vessel surveillance).
• China and the United Kingdom are classified as Emerging Risk Countries with specific inspection requirements.
• All roll-on roll-off (ro-ro) vessels are subject to heightened surveillance and mandatory inspections.

These changes reflect the evolving nature of the BMSB threat and the need for adaptive measures to protect Australia's borders.

Understanding Target Countries and Risk Categories

High Risk Target Countries

The list of high-risk target countries has expanded to 39, including:

Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Czechia, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Montenegro, Moldova, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United States of America, and Uzbekistan.

Mandatory treatment measures apply to Target High Risk Goods originating from or shipped through these countries.

Emerging Risk Countries

Two countries have been classified as Emerging Risk:

• China: Random inspections will apply to goods shipped between September 1 to December 31 (inclusive)
• United Kingdom: Random inspections will apply to goods shipped between December 1 to April 30 (inclusive)

For these countries, in addition to the target high-risk goods, chapters 39, 94, and 95 will be subject to random inspections.

Target High Risk Goods and Mandatory Treatment

Certain goods have been categorized as target high risk and require mandatory treatment for BMSB. These include items falling under the following tariff classifications:

• 44 - Wood and articles of wood; wood charcoal
• 45 - Cork and articles of cork
• 57 - Carpets and other textile floor coverings
• 68 - Articles of stone, plaster, cement, asbestos, mica or similar materials
• 69 - Ceramic products
• 70 - Glass and glassware
• 72 - Iron and steel
• 73 - Articles of iron or steel
• 74 - Copper and articles thereof
• 75 - Nickel and articles thereof
• 76 - Aluminium and articles thereof
• 78 - Lead and articles thereof
• 79 - Zinc and articles thereof
• 80 - Tin and articles thereof
• 81 - Other base metals; cermets; articles thereof
• 82 - Tools, implements, cutlery, spoons and forks, of base metal; parts thereof of base metal
• 83 - Miscellaneous articles of base metals
• 84 - Nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery and mechanical appliances; parts thereof
• 85 - Electrical machinery and equipment and parts thereof
• 86 - Railway or tramway locomotives, rolling stock and parts thereof
• 87 - Vehicles other than railway or tramway rolling-stock, and parts and accessories thereof
• 88 - Aircraft, spacecraft, and parts thereof
• 89 - Ships, boats and floating structures

It's crucial to note that this list is subject to change throughout the season. We recommend regularly checking the Agriculture Website for the most up-to-date information.

Treatment Options and Requirements

Approved Treatment Methods

The DAFF has approved three treatment options for BMSB risk:

1. Heat treatment
2. Methyl bromide fumigation
3. Sulfuryl fluoride fumigation

Each of these methods has specific requirements and rates that must be followed to ensure effective treatment. We recommend consulting with approved treatment providers for detailed information on the appropriate method for your goods.

Offshore BMSB Treatment Providers Scheme

To ensure the quality and effectiveness of treatments, offshore treatment providers in target risk countries must be registered and approved by the DAFF. Goods treated by unregistered providers in target risk countries will be directed for export upon arrival in Australia.

However, treatments performed in non-target risk countries may use providers that are not registered under the Offshore BMSB Treatment Providers Scheme, unless they are listed as 'suspended', 'withdrawn', or 'under review'.

Post-Treatment Window

For goods treated prior to December 1, a 120-hour post-treatment window applies. This timeframe begins after treatment completion or when ventilation commences. Specific requirements apply to containerized goods and break bulk cargo:

• Containerized goods must be loaded into a six-sided container and sealed within 120 hours.
• Break bulk (including flat racks and open-top containers) must be loaded onto a vessel for export from the target risk country within 120 hours.

It's important to note that this post-treatment window does not apply to goods treated in non-target risk countries or to goods treated from December 1 onwards.

Special Considerations for Different Cargo Types

Break Bulk Consignments

Mandatory offshore treatment is required for target high-risk goods shipped as break bulk cargo, including goods shipped in open-top containers or on flat rack containers. Untreated break bulk will be denied discharge and directed for export upon arrival.

Containerized Cargo

For containerized cargo shipped as Less than Container Load (LCL) and Full Container Load (FCL), the following rules apply:

• Mandatory offshore or onshore treatment is required for target high-risk goods shipped in sealed six-sided containers.
• LCL and FCL containers with target high-risk goods will be managed at the container level for BMSB risk prior to deconsolidation.
• Containers seeking onshore treatment will be subject to early reporting and must be moved to an Approved Arrangement site for treatment at the container level.

It's crucial to note that deconsolidation or segregation of goods will not be permitted before treatment.

Vessel Surveillance and Inspections

All roll-on roll-off (ro-ro) vessels are subject to heightened surveillance during the BMSB season. Vessels that berth at, load, or transship in target risk countries between September 1, 2023, and April 30, 2024, must:

• Conduct self-inspections and respond to specific questions as part of pre-arrival reporting requirements.
• Undergo a mandatory seasonal pest inspection upon arrival in Australia.

Documentary and Evidence Requirements

Proper documentation is crucial for smooth clearance of goods during the BMSB season. Key documents include:

BMSB Sealing Declarations

These are required when:

• Goods were packed and sealed in a container before September 1 but shipped after this date.
• The bill of lading doesn't state the 'shipped on board' date.
• Target high-risk goods were manufactured, packed, and sealed in a container in a non-target risk country but shipped from a target risk country.
• Goods were sealed inside a container within 120 hours of offshore treatment.

BMSB 120 Hour Transship Declarations

These are needed for break bulk, open-top, or flat rack containers when:

• Goods were treated in a target risk country and shipped to a non-target risk country within 120 hours of treatment.
• Goods were treated in a non-target risk country but transshipped through a target risk country within 120 hours of treatment.
• Goods were shipped from a non-target risk country, transshipped through a target risk country, but didn't spend longer than 120 hours in the target risk country.

It's important to note that these declarations must be completed by the exporter, freight forwarder, shipping company, offshore treatment provider, or manufacturer at the port of origin. Declarations made by Australian-based importers or brokers will not be accepted.

Managing Potential Delays and Challenges

The onshore treatment option for containers is expected to result in increased clearance delays at the border. These delays are due to:

• Increased volumes of cargo being referred into the system
• Limited onshore capacity at approved arrangement sites
• Constraints at onshore treatment provider premises

To mitigate these challenges, importers should plan ahead and consider the following strategies:

1. Opt for offshore treatment when possible to avoid onshore delays.
2. Allow extra time in your supply chain for potential clearance delays.
3. Stay informed about the latest BMSB measures and any changes throughout the season.
4. Work closely with your freight forwarder and customs broker to ensure all documentation is in order.
5. Consider participating in the Safeguarding Arrangements Scheme for an alternate clearance pathway.

How FreightAmigo Can Help Navigate BMSB Regulations

As a Digital Logistics Platform, FreightAmigo is well-equipped to support importers and freight forwarders in navigating the complex BMSB regulations. Here's how we can assist:

1. Real-time Information and Updates

Our Digital Platform provides access to the latest BMSB regulations and updates, ensuring you're always informed about any changes that may affect your shipments.

2. Streamlined Documentation Management

With our Digital Logistics Solution, you can easily manage and submit required documentation, such as BMSB sealing declarations and transship declarations, reducing the risk of delays due to paperwork issues.

3. Efficient Treatment Coordination

We can help you identify approved treatment providers and coordinate offshore or onshore treatments as needed, ensuring compliance with BMSB regulations.

4. Customized Risk Assessment

Our advanced Digital Platform can assess your shipments based on origin, goods type, and other factors to determine BMSB risk and recommend appropriate measures.

5. Integrated Tracking and Monitoring

FreightAmigo's Digital Logistics Platform allows you to track your shipments in real-time, including any BMSB-related inspections or treatments, providing full visibility throughout the supply chain.

6. Expert Support and Guidance

Our team of logistics experts is available 24/7 to provide guidance on BMSB regulations, help resolve issues, and ensure your shipments comply with all requirements.

7. Proactive Delay Management

By leveraging our Digital Logistics Solution, we can help you anticipate potential delays related to BMSB measures and adjust your supply chain accordingly, minimizing disruptions to your operations.

With FreightAmigo's comprehensive Digital Logistics Platform, you can navigate the complexities of BMSB regulations with confidence, ensuring your shipments are compliant and minimizing the risk of costly delays or rejections.

Conclusion: Staying Ahead of BMSB Challenges

The 2023-24 BMSB season brings new challenges and requirements for importers and logistics professionals. By staying informed, planning ahead, and leveraging the right Digital Logistics Solutions, you can navigate these regulations effectively and minimize disruptions to your supply chain.

Remember, biosecurity is everyone's responsibility. If you see something suspicious that could have entered Australia with imported goods, report it to the See. Secure. Report hotline at 1800 798 636 or complete the online form.

At FreightAmigo, we're committed to providing you with the Digital Logistics Platform and expertise needed to tackle BMSB regulations head-on. Our comprehensive Digital Logistics Solution is designed to streamline your operations, ensure compliance, and provide peace of mind in an ever-changing regulatory landscape.

Stay ahead of the curve this BMSB season with FreightAmigo's Digital Platform. Contact us today to learn how our Digital Logistics Solution can help you navigate these challenges and optimize your international shipping operations.