19 August 2024
Purpose
This Industry Advice Notice (IAN) is to notify treatment providers, exporters, and authorised officers of a planned update to the methyl bromide fumigation methodology (the methodology) in relation to the fumigation of horticulture (fresh fruit and vegetable) products for export.
Summary of changes and key points
- The methyl bromide methodology (version 3.0) will come into force from 1 May 2025.
- The current methodology (version 2.0) will remain in force until April 30 2025.
- The updated methodology aims to clarify requirements for treatment providers, with minor changes made to requirements and processes.
- The methodology sets the standards and processes for fumigation, however, country specific requirements will still take precedence and must be applied to meet import conditions.
Note: This IAN applies to the fumigation of horticulture (fresh fruit and vegetable) products for export. For clarification on fumigation requirements for grain and plant products (excluding horticulture), please check the relevant instructional material on the Plant Export Operations Manual and/or contact the Grain and Seed Exports Program.
- The following Guides for quarantine and pre-shipment (QPS) treatments have been expanded and improved and are currently open for feedback
- The Performance standards – methyl bromide fumigation – horticulture exports will also be reviewed and updates released in conjunction with the new methodology.
Background
The Methyl Bromide Fumigation Methodology is an internationally recognised standard for the application of methyl bromide. Members of the International Cargo Cooperative Biosecurity Arrangement have endorsed the methodology, harmonising treatment requirements internationally.
On 23 January 2023, IAN 2023-03 was published, inviting industry consultation and feedback on the Methyl Bromide Fumigation Methodology.
On August 5, 2024 we published the updated Methyl Bromide Fumigation Methodology (version 3.0), after a comprehensive review period and significant feedback from stakeholders.
The update removed ambiguous language, simplified wording and clarified requirements. This assists treatment providers to meet requirements and assures the department that fumigations are applied correctly.
Contact information
If you have any questions regarding fumigating horticulture for export, please email Horticulture Exports Program.
For questions or feedback on the methodology or guides, please email Offshore Treatments.
Rossana Carr
Assistant Secretary
Plant Export Operations Branch