The annual Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) fumigation season has officially ended — giving importers a brief window of relief from the additional biosecurity measures required during the high-risk period. However, this pause is short-lived, as the next season will start again on 1 September. Now is the perfect time to take stock of your shipping procedures and ensure you’re prepared for the next phase of BMSB seasonal measures.

At Australian Customs Brokers and Logistics, we strongly encourage importers to always check with your customs broker before shipping goods from BMSB-affected countries to ensure you’re compliant with fumigation requirements and avoid unnecessary delays.

What is BMSB and Why Does It Matter?

The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug is a serious pest that poses a significant threat to Australia’s agricultural industry. Native to parts of Asia but now widespread in Europe and North America, the BMSB is known to stow away in shipping containers, vehicles, and machinery during the Northern Hemisphere autumn and winter months.

If introduced into Australia, these pests could cause major damage to crops and disrupt ecosystems. To prevent this, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) imposes strict seasonal measures on certain goods and countries between 1 September and 30 April each year — the designated BMSB season.

BMSB Season Has Ended – What Does That Mean?

The current BMSB season ended on 30 April, which means:

Goods shipped on or after 1 May are no longer subject to mandatory BMSB fumigation (unless otherwise classified as high-risk for other reasons).

Importers can expect fewer delays and lower compliance costs during this period.

It’s a great time to reassess your supply chain and plan ahead for the next BMSB season.

However, it’s important to remember that some goods may still require treatment based on origin, commodity type, or other biosecurity risks. That’s why it’s critical to speak with your customs broker before making arrangements.

When Does BMSB Season Start Again?

The 2025–26 BMSB risk season will begin on 1 September 2025, covering goods that are shipped (not landed) between 1 September 2025 and 30 April 2026 from target risk countries.

To avoid delays, additional fees, or compliance breaches, make sure your shipments scheduled for late August or early September are carefully timed and checked with your customs broker in advance.

Check With Your Customs Broker – Every Time

Not all goods or shipments require BMSB treatment — but many do. Factors that determine fumigation requirements include:

• Country of origin
• Commodity type (e.g. vehicles, machinery, timber, steel products)
• Shipping method (e.g. breakbulk, FCL, LCL)
• Date of departure

At Australian Customs Brokers and Logistics, our team stays up to date with the latest DAFF requirements and seasonal risk categories. We’ll help you:

• Determine whether your goods require treatment
• Arrange approved fumigation methods (such as heat treatment or sulfuryl fluoride)
• Ensure documentation is in order to prevent delays at the border
• Plan shipments around the BMSB season for maximum efficiency
• Avoid costly mistakes and re-export orders by confirming fumigation requirements early.

Get Ready for the 2025–26 BMSB Season Now

With the current season over, now is the time to:

• Review your suppliers and shipping timelines
• Identify commodities or regions affected by BMSB measures
• Build a compliance plan for the next season
• Talk to your customs broker early to avoid the seasonal rush

We’re here to support you at every step.

Need Help With BMSB Compliance?

Whether you’re shipping now or planning ahead for the next BMSB season, Australian Customs Brokers and Logistics is here to help. Our experienced team will ensure your goods are cleared quickly, safely, and in line with all biosecurity regulations.

Contact us today to speak with a licensed customs broker about your BMSB obligations and how we can streamline your imports.