As we approach the 2026-27 Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) risk season, we encourage all clients, overseas agents, yacht captains and suppliers to review their supply chains and shipping plans to ensure compliance with Australia’s biosecurity requirements.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) continues to implement seasonal measures to prevent the introduction of the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug from entering Australia.
Key Dates
The 2026-27 BMSB season applies to targetted goods shipped to Australia as sea cargo between:
1 September 2026 and 30 April 2027 (inclusive).
The critical date is the**”shipped on board” date** shown on the ocean Bill of Lading.
Who Is Affected?
BMSB measures may apply to targetted risk goods that are:
- manufactured in designated BMSB risk countries.
- shipped from/transhipped via designated BMSB risk countries.
Important Information for Breakbulk Cargo – including Yachts and Boats
Breakbulk Cargo (including cargo shipped on flat racks, and open top containers)
Cargo shipped as:
- Breakbulk cargo
- Flat racks
- Open-top containers
- Modified containers
remain subject to the most stringent BMSB requirements.
Where BMSB measures apply, treatment must be completed offshore – prior to shipment by an approved treatment provider.
Failure to comply may result in:
- Refusal to discharge cargo
- Export directions
- Significant delays
- Additional freight and storage costs
What’s New for 2026-27?
While the overall framework remains largely unchanged, DAFF has announced several important updates for the 2026-27 season.
New Treatment Option
Ethyl Formate is now available as an approved BMSB treatment option alongside existing treatment methods.
Approved Treatment Providers
All offshore BMSB treatments must be carried out by a DAFF-approved treatment provider.
We strongly recommend confirming your chosen treatment provider’s approval status before booking treatment, as provider approvals may be suspended or amended throughout the season.
Approved offshore treatment provider list can be found here: https://www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity-trade/import/before/prepare/treatment-outside-australia/pre-border-biosecurity-treatment-providers#list-providers
Need Assistance?
Our Customs and Biosecurity team can assist with:
- Determining whether your cargo is subject to BMSB measures
- Treatment advice and coordination
- Review of shipping documentation
- Import planning for yachts and marine cargo
- Customs and biosecurity clearance requirements
For further information or assistance, please contact the Aurora Yacht Transport team.
Phone: + 61 (0) 7 3900 5900
Email: customs@auroralogistics.com
