THE Australian Government has issued a call to action for those involved in the grain industry to assist in preventing the introduction into Australia of khapra beetle.

Australia is recognised globally as free of khapra beetle (Trogoderma granarium), which is a serious grain and seed storage pest in overseas countries.

Khapra beetle adult and larva on rice grains.

Recently there have been interceptions of khapra beetle on imported cargo and containers at the border.

Containers for the export of grain, seeds and nuts are required to be food grade standard and must be inspected and certified as being hygienic and suitable for export.

However, some containers that have been imported into Australia have harboured khapra beetle beneath the flooring which may not be visibly observed during inspection.

The Federal Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment is also implementing urgent actions to better manage the risk of khapra beetle entering Australia via imported shipping containers and high-risk plant products.

In light of the recent detections, the department is looking at options to strengthen measures used for packing containerised plant export consignments that are at risk of khapra beetle.

The moves will be in consultation with industry to gain its input prior to a decision on any changes being implemented.

Industry involved in the preparation of containerised grains, seeds and nuts should be vigilant to any potential contamination of containers with khapra.

If there is evidence of khapra the container will need to be reported to authorities and only used for export if treated.

Source: Federal Government

Contact 1800 900 090 or via email to the Grain and Seed Exports Program (please title the subject line of the email with ‘Plant Tier 2 – Khapra urgent actions’)