Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) season begins on 1 September 2026, and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has confirmed three changes that Australian importers need to plan around this season: a new onshore treatment option, and the removal of two policies importers have previously relied on. Here’s what’s changed, and what it means for your shipments.

WHEN THIS APPLIES

BMSB seasonal measures apply to targeted goods manufactured in or shipped from target risk countries that have been shipped between 1 September and 30 April (inclusive), and to vessels that berth, load, or tranship from target risk countries within the same period.

Important Note: The shipped on board date, as indicated on the Ocean Bill of Lading, is the date used to determine when goods have been shipped. Terminal "Gate in" dates and times are not accepted to determine when goods are shipped.

The measures are reviewed throughout the season, and necessary adjustments may be made based on detections of BMSB and changes in the risk pathways. For the full, current list of target risk countries and target goods, see DAFF's BMSB resource hub.

WHAT'S NEW FOR THE 2026-27 SEASON

Ethyl Formate now approved for onshore treatment

Previously available only as an offshore pre-arrival treatment, Ethyl Formate has been added as an approved onshore treatment option for the 2026-2027 season, in addition to heat treatment, Methyl Bromide and Sulfuryl Fluoride. Ethyl formate is faster-acting and more environmentally friendly than methyl bromide which affects the ozone layer. Ethyl Formate breaks down into two naturally occurring products: formic acid and ethanol. 

Rolled Goods Policy Removed

Breakbulk and project goods that were rolled or bumped off a vessel were previously given an extra 48-hour window to be shipped after treatment. Now, the normal 120-hour window applies from the date of treatment to the goods being shipped, with no additional allowance for rolled cargo. Talk to SEKO's ocean freight forwarding team about your vessel bookings this season.

Safeguarding Scheme Removed

ABN holders could previously bypass mandatory arrival treatments for containers by demonstrating their manufacturing, packaging, and storage processes could prevent BMSB contamination of cargo prior to export, as well as meeting other requirements.  This pathway is no longer available for the 2026-27 season.

CHECKLIST FOR BMSB SEASON 2026-27

  • Confirm your new compliance pathway with your broker if you relied on the Safeguarding Scheme last season.
  • Build the full 120-hour treatment-to-shipping window into your planning, there’s no extension for rolled or bumped cargo this season.
  • Confirm your treatment provider is registered with DAFF as an approved provider, and ask your treatment provider whether Ethyl Formate is available for your cargo.
  • Talk to your SEKO customs broker before you book if you're unsure whether your shipments are affected, particularly where your cargo or vessel route touches a target risk country this season.

“The main elements remain in place, however DAFF's approach is tightening in relation to managing the BMSB risk. It is essential that importers check if their goods are subject to the measures. If they are, decide on the treatment method and ensure that the origin fumigator is registered with DAFF as an approved treatment provider. If so, they will send their treatment certificate directly to DAFF. lf goods are manufactured on or after 1 December, treatment is waived if a manufacturer declaration is provided with the details. Definitely check with your broker if you need clarification.” - Stephen Dennis, National Customs Manager, SEKO Logistics Australia

If you have questions, please reach out to your SEKO representative, or contact the SEKO Australia team here.