Inchcape Shipping Services (ISS) is notifying vessels entering the North American ports to follow the Asian Gypsy Moth regulations issued by the US Department of Agriculture and Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
The Asian Gypsy Moth (AGM), which is found in some seaports in Far East Russia, Japan, Korea and North China, is a harmful pest that can be carried on the superstructure of ships and cargo.
Vessels arriving without AGM documentation usually face significant delays in cargo loading and unloading activities due to inspection, re-routing and other potential impacts associated with mitigating the risk of entry of AGM to North America.
In 2013, the US and Canadian authorities found many vessels with AGM egg masses arriving in North America and are forecasting the same this year.
ISS is therefore warning the shipping lines to take responsibility and meet all requirements before entering the US and Canada.
Vessels must attain pre-departure certification from a recognised certification body stating that vessels are free of any AGM life stages and forward the same to their US or Canadian agents.
Vessels are also required to provide two-year port of call data, at least 96 hours before arriving at a North American port.
ISS also insisted that shipping companies are to contact local inspection authorities of the port for any questions regarding AGM import requirements or clearance procedures.