The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has confirmed the seasonal measures to manage the risk of the brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) entering Australia.
The 2025–2026 BMSB season applies to goods shipped between 1 September 2025 (shipped-on-board date) and 30 April 2026 (inclusive). During this period, goods manufactured in or shipped from target risk countries will be subject to strict biosecurity requirements.
What is the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug?
The brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) is an invasive plant pest native to Asia but now widespread in Europe and North America. These insects are known to damage fruit, vegetables and crops, posing a serious risk to Australia’s horticulture and agriculture sectors.
As temperatures cool in the Northern Hemisphere, brown marmorated stink bugs look for sheltered places to overwinter – often stowing away inside shipping containers, vehicles and machinery. This behaviour makes international trade one of the most significant pathways for their introduction into Australia.
Why BMSB Season Matters for Importers
Key points importers need to know
- Target high-risk goods (e.g. machinery, vehicles, base metals) require mandatory offshore treatment.
- Target risk goods (e.g. plastics, rubber, paper) may be subject to random inspection.
- Break bulk cargo (flat racks, open tops, modified containers) must be treated offshore – untreated shipments can be re-exported.
- Containerised goods in sealed, six-sided containers can be treated offshore or onshore at the container level.
- Goods from target risk countries (including USA, Italy, Germany, China, Japan, Korea and more) are most affected.
How Jacanna Supports Your Business
At Jacanna, we know that navigating the BMSB season can be complex. Our logistics experts work with accredited treatment providers and stay fully up to date with DAFF requirements to ensure your shipments are compliant.
We help importers by:
- Advising whether goods fall under target risk or target high-risk categories
- Coordinating offshore or onshore treatment (fumigation or heat treatment)
- Managing all documentation to minimise turnaround times and treatment costs
With Jacanna, your cargo is in safe hands – we’ll keep your supply chain moving while helping protect Australia from the brown marmorated stink bug.
For further details, please see DAFF’s official release: Seasonal measures for the 2025–2026 BMSB risk season.
Contact Jacanna today to discuss your shipments for the upcoming BMSB season.