The 2025–26 Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) season has officially begun, and Century Customs & Freight reminds importers, exporters and partners to stay alert to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s (DAFF) latest biosecurity requirements. These seasonal measures are critical to protecting Australia’s agricultural industries and natural environment from one of the world’s most invasive pests.

Century, as an Australian Trusted Trader, works closely with DAFF and our clients to ensure all cargo moves safely, efficiently and compliantly. Our commitment to preparation and clear communication means our clients can focus on their business while we manage the regulatory detail behind the scenes.

The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug is native to East Asia but has spread throughout Europe and North America, where it has caused widespread crop damage and significant disruption to supply chains. The pest is known to seek shelter in machinery, vehicles and containers during the cooler months, travelling unnoticed in international freight. Once established, it is extremely difficult to eradicate, posing a serious threat to agriculture and trade.

DAFF enforces strict import measures every year to prevent the pest from entering and establishing itself in Australia. The 2025–26 season runs from 1 September 2025 to 30 April 2026 and applies to goods shipped from or manufactured in designated target risk countries.

DAFF has introduced several important updates this season that importers should take note of:
1. The Republic of Korea and Japan have been added as emerging risk countries.
2. Target high risk goods arriving by air from the United States or China may be subject to random inspection.
3. Ethyl Formate has been approved as a new offshore treatment method, joining Heat, Methyl Bromide and Sulfuryl Fluoride.
4. Goods that are transhipped or rolled through target risk countries must now have a formal Risk Management Plan submitted and approved before shipment.

Target High Risk Goods such as machinery, metal parts, timber and vehicles must be treated either offshore or onshore using one of the four approved methods. Target Risk Goods, which include some chemicals, plastics and paper products, do not require treatment but may face on arrival inspection.

Break bulk, flat rack and open top cargo from target risk countries must always be treated offshore. Where treatment occurs before 1 December 2025, goods must be sealed and shipped within 120 hours of treatment completion.

Century works with a trusted network of approved treatment providers across Asia, Europe and North America. We verify certificates, confirm timeframes and coordinate directly with DAFF to ensure smooth clearance for all shipments.

Accurate documentation is essential to avoid delays or costs. Importers should ensure the following are ready and correct: valid treatment certificate, sealing declaration, Bill of Lading showing shipped on board date, and approved Risk Management Plan for transhipped cargo.

Century’s Imports and Customs divisions have managed BMSB compliance since the program began. As an Australian Trusted Trader, we have streamlined communication channels with DAFF and direct access to government resources, helping clients meet every requirement confidently and efficiently.

As regulations continue to evolve, early preparation remains the best way to avoid costly delays. Century will continue to provide our clients with timely updates and proactive support as the season progresses. To stay informed about changes to import requirements, we invite all clients to subscribe to the Century newsletter