Navigating the 2023-2024 Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) Seasonal Measures in New Zealand

Introduction

As we approach the 2023-2024 shipping season, importers and freight forwarders must be aware of the latest Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) seasonal measures implemented by New Zealand's Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). These regulations are crucial for protecting New Zealand's ecosystem and agriculture from this invasive pest. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down the key aspects of the BMSB measures and how FreightAmigo can assist you in navigating these complex requirements.

Understanding the BMSB Risk Season

The BMSB risk season for the 2023-2024 period covers goods exported on or after September 1, 2023, arriving in New Zealand on or before April 30, 2024. This timeframe is critical for importers to keep in mind when planning their shipments.

High-Risk Target Countries

New Zealand has identified 38 countries as high-risk for BMSB. These include:

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, and the United States of America.

Importers should pay special attention to goods originating from or transiting through these countries, as they will be subject to stringent BMSB measures.

Offshore BMSB Treatment Providers Scheme

A crucial aspect of the BMSB measures is the Offshore BMSB Treatment Providers Scheme. Treatment providers in target risk countries must register and be approved by the MPI. This requirement applies to both new and existing providers, who will need to re-register with the department.

It's important to note that goods treated by unregistered providers in target risk countries will face export or onshore treatment (if permitted). This underscores the importance of working with approved treatment providers to ensure smooth importation.

Key Changes and Requirements

Several significant changes have been implemented for the 2023-2024 season:

1. Mandatory Offshore Treatment

All targeted goods, whether containerized or breakbulk, must be treated offshore. Failure to comply with this requirement will result in denied discharge and re-exportation.

2. Updates to the IHS for Vehicles, Machinery & Parts (VMP)

The Import Health Standard for vehicles, machinery, and parts has undergone some changes:

• Exclusions for new smaller vehicle types remain in place.
• New exclusions apply to certain types of vehicles, machinery, and parts, provided they are stored indoors, exported in fully enclosed containers, and accompanied by a signed manufacturer's declaration.
• These exclusions do not apply to goods exported from Italy.
• Used small vehicle types from Japan no longer require year-round mandatory system management but will be subject to BMSB management requirements.

3. Schedule 3 - BMSB Management Changes

Updates have been made to Schedule 3, including:

• Revised BMSB risk season dates and risk countries.
• Inclusion of vehicles, machinery, and parts that spend more than 5 days in a Schedule 3 country before export.
• Potential exclusions for some vehicles, machinery, and spare parts sealed within fully enclosed sea containers before September 1, 2023, and exported before October 1, 2023 (evidence required).

Mandatory Treatment Requirements

The following goods are subject to mandatory treatment:

• All sea cargo from Italy, except for sensitive goods.
• VMP from all other high-risk countries, unless they have completed the MPI Declaration for each exempt shipment.
• Sensitive cargo from Schedule 3 countries and Italy may be subject to MPI supervised unpack.

Exemptions from Seasonal Measures

Some circumstances may exempt goods from seasonal measures:

• Containers packed and sealed prior to September 1, 2023, and shipped on board before October 1, 2023 (requires timestamped photo evidence).
• Goods stored or transported to non-target risk countries prior to September 1, 2023 (evidence required).

Treatment Options

The MPI has approved three treatment options for BMSB risk:

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

For detailed information on approved treatment rates, importers should consult the Ministry for Primary Industries website.

MPI-Approved Systems

As an alternative to treatment, importers can use MPI-approved systems to meet BMSB requirements. These systems must provide a high level of risk management against BMSB and other regulated pests. Key points to consider:

• Systems must manage the commodity to the required standard before arrival in New Zealand.
• A comprehensive system overview must be presented to MPI for approval.
• MPI verifies all systems to ensure ongoing compliance.

Mixed Air and Sea Cargo

For target high-risk goods shipped using a mix of air and sea cargo, the seasonal measures apply to goods that arrive in New Zealand as sea cargo, regardless of their initial transport method.

Non-Listed Goods

While BMSB seasonal measures don't apply to goods not specifically listed, these items may still be subject to measures if they are part of a container or consignment containing target high-risk goods.

Biosecurity Awareness: See. Secure. Report

Everyone plays a role in protecting New Zealand's biosecurity. The MPI encourages all stakeholders, including wharf workers, transport operators, ship's crew, stevedores, depot staff, and importers, to report any suspected biosecurity concerns. If you notice something suspicious that could have entered New Zealand with imported goods, report it to the See. Secure. Report hotline at 0800 80 99 66 or email bmsb@mpi.govt.nz.

How FreightAmigo Can Help

Navigating the complex BMSB regulations can be challenging for importers and freight forwarders. This is where FreightAmigo's Digital Logistics Platform can make a significant difference:

1. Streamlined Documentation

Our Digital Logistics Solution automates shipment documents, ensuring that all necessary paperwork for BMSB compliance is accurately completed and submitted. This reduces the risk of delays or rejections due to documentation errors.

2. Real-Time Tracking

With our ability to connect with more than 1000 reputable airlines and shipping lines, we provide real-time tracking of your shipments. This feature is crucial for monitoring the progress of your goods and ensuring they meet the BMSB seasonal measure timelines.

3. Customs Clearance Assistance

Our platform offers seamless arrangement of customs clearance services, helping you navigate the specific requirements for BMSB-regulated goods entering New Zealand.

4. Insurance Coverage

Given the strict BMSB measures and the potential for re-exportation of non-compliant goods, cargo insurance is more important than ever. FreightAmigo's Digital Platform allows you to easily arrange appropriate insurance coverage for your shipments.

5. Expert Support

Our 24/7 logistics expert support ensures that you have access to guidance and assistance whenever you need it. Our team stays up-to-date with the latest BMSB regulations and can provide valuable insights to help you comply with all requirements.

6. Comprehensive Freight Quote Comparison

Our Digital Platform allows you to compare door-to-door freight quotes for various shipping methods, including international courier, airfreight, sea freight, rail freight, and trucking solutions. This feature helps you find the most cost-effective and compliant shipping options for your BMSB-regulated goods.

Conclusion

The 2023-2024 BMSB seasonal measures present significant challenges for importers and freight forwarders. However, with proper planning, awareness, and the right Digital Logistics Solution, these challenges can be effectively managed. FreightAmigo's comprehensive Digital Platform is designed to support you through every step of the process, from documentation and tracking to customs clearance and expert support.

By leveraging our Digital Logistics Platform, you can ensure compliance with BMSB regulations, minimize the risk of delays or rejections, and maintain the smooth flow of your supply chain. As the shipping landscape continues to evolve, partnering with a forward-thinking Digital Logistics Solution provider like FreightAmigo is more crucial than ever.

Stay informed, plan ahead, and let FreightAmigo be your trusted partner in navigating the complexities of international shipping and biosecurity requirements. Together, we can ensure your imports arrive safely and compliantly in New Zealand, contributing to the protection of its unique ecosystem and agricultural sector.