Both Australian and New Zealand authorities have issued directives to Customs that all full containers from Italy should be fumigated as on inspections they have found a number of Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs, also known as Shield Bugs or Leaf Hoppers, presumably hibernating on or in containers from Italy. This only applies to containers arriving between 17th January and 30th April 2018.
The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug is an invasive insect which can damage fruit, vegetables and other crops as well as cause dermatitis in humans. The animals suck the juices from the fruit and leave toxins which can kill the plant.
Some containers recently sent to Australia have been delayed for two weeks as there is a backlog of containers awaiting fumigation. This should shortly be cleared as there are additional facilities being prepared. Charges can be around $600 to fumigate a container which is a high proportion when a container carries low value/high volume goods.
In New Zealand, car carrying ships have been turned away for fumigation after hundreds of the pests were found aboard. The only approved insecticide can cause irreparable damage to car upholstery but the government are looking at authorising the use of less aggressive chemicals as used in other countries.
