News

 

US homeowners know it as the "stink bug" or the "kudzu bug". Etymologists call it the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB), Halymorpha halys, and its appearance is spreading across the United States this spring. But Chile wants nothing to do with it and is taking a stand to prevent it from entering its environment.

 

The Chilean Agriculture and Livestock Authority (SAG) has issued a provisional regulation to prevent US exporters from inadvertently sending the stink bug to Chile. The resolution requires fumigation with methyl bromide for products including US-made cars, clothing, toys, and used items. Similar goods from China, Korea, Japan and Taiwan also fall under the resolution. An original Phytosanitary Treatment Certificate, issued by the fumigation company, must be presented to SAG upon arrival in Chile.

 

The regulation carries a statement concerning maritime shipments of goods: "The containers or vessels, in which the freight comes, including transportation, must be clean and free of Halyomorpha halys. In case of interception of this pest, the Service will request the application of phytosanitary measures as it deems appropriate on an individual basis."

 

All vessels from US will undergo a pre-discharge inspection.

If any stink bug is found, no cargo from the vessel will be discharged and the vessel will be directed to leave the port to deal with the issue on the open water.

Chile has issued a similar resolution to prevent the invasion of the Asian Gypsy Moth.