Australia is taking urgent measures to prevent the entry of the Khapra beetle (Trogoderma granarium), a serious enemy of agricultural fields, affecting plant product and sea container exports and imports. Fumigation and the requirement of an appropriate AEI certificate are mandatory for containers carrying high-risk plant products from target risk areas for the Khapra beetle. Non-compliance with these rules leads to the immediate export of the container upon arrival in Australia.
The resistance of the Khapra beetle and their ability to survive for an extended period without food pose challenges in detecting infestations, leading to invasions that may go unnoticed even in sanitized storage facilities. Filling facilities with dry foods can result in a rapid and destructive increase in Khapra beetle populations. Approved fumigation options include heat treatment and methyl bromide, with alternatives such as modified atmosphere applications also indicated. It is emphasized that these alternative treatment options are temporary measures for high-risk plant products.
