New Asian Gypsy Moth Rules for N.A. Ports

Inchcape Shipping Services (ISS), is advising of Asian Gypsy Moth (AGM) regulations for vessels arriving at North American ports this summer issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

Asian Gypsy Moth is a serious pest that can be carried on the superstructure of ships and cargo and is prevalent in some seaport areas in Far East Russia, Japan, Korea and N. China. U.S. and Canadian authorities intercepted a large number of vessels with AGM egg masses arriving in North America last year and are forecasting another year of high risk in 2014.

Where vessels arrive without the required AGM documentation or on detection of AGM there can be significant delays in cargo loading or discharging activities. ISS is warning that it is the responsibility of shipping lines to meet all requirements for entry to the U.S. and Canada.

The U.S. and Canada are in full agreement on the requirement for AGM pre-departure certification and vessels arriving free from all AGM life forms (egg masses, pupae, adults), although due to sovereign regulations and policies, there are differences in port-of-entry processes between the two countries.