Notification of emergency measures for Khapra beetle - Phase 6A: New measures for target risk sea containers

On 4 August 2020, Australia issued a SPS notification (G/SPS/N/AUS/502) informing trading partners of its intention to implement emergency measures to plant products that are hosts of khapra beetle (Trogoderma granarium) to safeguard Australia against the entry, establishment and spread of this pest.

As notified in addendum G/SPS/N/AUS/502/Add.5, new measures for sea containers will be implemented in two stages: Phase 6A (target risk containers) and Phase 6B (high-risk containers). Further information on Phase 6A is now available, as detailed below.
Phase 6A: New measures for target risk sea containersPhase 6A will introduce offshore treatment requirements for target risk sea containers from 12 April 2021. To comply with the new measures, all target risk containers exported on or after 12 April 2021 must be treated and accompanied by a valid treatment certificate. If a phytosanitary certificate is to be provided for sea containers, this must also be accompanied by a valid treatment certificate.Information sessionsAustralia is holding virtual information sessions for industry to provide more information on the Phase 6A changes. There are three separate information sessions to accommodate people's schedules. Please note, the content will be the same at each information session.  The information sessions will be held: ·         9:30 – 11:30 (AEDT), Tuesday, 23 February 2021·         10:30 – 12:30 (AEDT), Thursday, 25 February 2021·         14:00 – 16:00 (AEDT), Friday, 26 February 2021
Australia would appreciate it if trading partners could encourage their treatment providers to attend the information sessions. Register to attend: http://www.khapra-beetle-containers-information-sessions.eventbrite.com.auInvitations to the information sessions have been extended to target risk country embassies in Australia. However, Australia is also happy to meet with National Plant Protection Organizations or their representatives in Australia if they would like additional information on the emergency measures for sea containers.Further informationAdditional information on the emergency measures can be found on the department's website: http://www.agriculture.gov.au/pests-diseases-weeds/plant/khapra-beetle/urgent-actionsAddenda to this SPS notification will be published to notify the measures and implementation dates for subsequent phases. Complete import conditions and details regarding the measures will be outlined in the Biosecurity Import Conditions system (BICON) prior to the implementation date.