BROWN MARMORATED STINK BUG (BMSB) RISK SEASON 2026–2027

The BMSB Season is Almost Here – Is Your Supply Chain Ready?

As we approach the commencement of the 2026–2027 Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) Risk Season, Loch M. Fraser Logistics would like to remind importers, freight forwarders and overseas suppliers of the importance of preparing early for Australia's annual BMSB biosecurity measures.

While the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) is yet to release the final seasonal requirements, current advice indicates that the core measures are expected to remain largely unchanged from the previous season.

Why BMSB Matters

The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) is one of Australia's most significant seasonal biosecurity risks.

Native to East Asia, this invasive pest can cause extensive damage to agriculture, horticulture and the natural environment if introduced into Australia. During the northern hemisphere autumn and winter months, BMSB insects seek shelter in shipping containers, machinery, vehicles, construction equipment and a wide range of manufactured goods, making international cargo a high-risk pathway for entry.

Australia's comprehensive offshore treatment programme has proven highly successful in preventing the establishment of this destructive pest. Compliance with these measures remains essential to protecting Australian industries while avoiding costly delays, inspections and treatment upon arrival.

Key Dates

The 2026–2027 BMSB Risk Season is expected to apply to:

• Target high-risk goods
• Originating from target risk countries
• Shipped on board a vessel between 1 September 2026 and 30 April 2027 (inclusive)

Final confirmation will be provided by DAFF once the official seasonal measures are released.

What is Expected to Remain the Same?

Based on current advice, the following requirements are not expected to change:

• Target Risk Countries – No significant changes anticipated.
• Target High-Risk Goods – Current commodity classifications are expected to remain.
• Mandatory Offshore Treatment – Break bulk cargo, including flat racks and open-top containers carrying target high-risk goods, will continue to require approved offshore treatment before arrival in Australia.
• Random Biosecurity Inspections – Selected cargo from emerging risk countries, together with certain airfreight consignments from the United States and China, will continue to be subject to random inspection throughout the season.

Prepare Early

With the BMSB season fast approaching, now is the ideal time to review your import programme and ensure everything is ready before the seasonal rush.

We recommend that importers:

• Review internal BMSB compliance procedures.
• Discuss treatment requirements with overseas suppliers and manufacturers.
• Identify shipments that may be subject to BMSB measures.
• Confirm offshore treatment providers are approved by DAFF.
• Book treatments and shipping space as early as possible to avoid delays and capacity constraints.
• Monitor DAFF announcements for confirmation of the final seasonal measures.

Early planning can significantly reduce delays, storage costs and unnecessary disruption to your supply chain.

How Loch M. Fraser Logistics Can Help

The BMSB season can be complex, particularly for importers managing machinery, vehicles, steel products, construction equipment and other high-risk cargo.

Our experienced team can assist with:

• Identifying whether your cargo is subject to BMSB measures.
• Reviewing supplier documentation and treatment certificates.
• Coordinating approved offshore treatment requirements.
• Managing import documentation and DAFF compliance.
• Providing freight solutions that minimise delays and reduce supply chain risk.

Whether you are importing a single shipment or managing ongoing international freight movements, Loch M. Fraser Logistics is here to help you navigate the BMSB season with confidence.

Stay Informed

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry is expected to publish the official 2026–2027 BMSB Seasonal Measures in late July or early August 2026.

Once the final requirements have been released, Loch M. Fraser Logistics will provide customers with a comprehensive summary of any changes and practical guidance to help ensure ongoing compliance.

If you have any questions about the upcoming BMSB season or would like assistance planning your imports, please contact the team at Loch M. Fraser Logistics. We're here to help keep your cargo moving safely, compliantly and efficiently.