Inchcape warns of Asian gypsy moth regulations

   Inchcape Shipping Services  is warning that if ships arriving from Asia are infested with Asian gypsy moths or do not have required documentation, there can be significant delays in cargo loading or discharging activities.
   The company has published an alert on the subject, advising of Asian gypsy moth regulations for vessels arriving at North American ports this summer issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Canadian Food Inspection Agency. It said the risk of introduction of these moths into North America from Far East Russia, Japan, Korea, and Northern China is considered to be high for 2013.
   ISS noted the “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. U.S. and Canadian authorities intercepted a large number of vessels with AGM egg masses arriving in North America last year. Where vessels arrive without the required AGM documentation or on detection of AGM there can be significant delays in cargo loading or discharging activities.”
   Vessels must arrive at North American ports with required pre-departure certification and free of Asian gypsy moths. For vessels which have called on areas regulated for this pest during the specified periods below, several measures are required, which are detailed in the alert. – Chris Dupin