The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) announced late last week the conviction of a Christchurch firm for submitting a false declaration that could have created a serious biosecurity breach.

The customs broking firm prosecuted by MPI falsely declared that the header unit of an imported combine harvester was new when it was in fact used. When inspected by officials and effectively cleaned, the waste from the header filled three 240-litre containers.

KVH is supportive of the action taken by MPI, not only because there could have been serious biosecurity impacts resulting from the contamination (potentially impacting any primary or horticultural sector industry), but also because it demonstrates that the system is working and does pick up on inconsistencies like incorrect paperwork.

We also support even stronger action being taken by MPI in situations where rules are disregarded, including rejecting the importation of uncleaned machinery altogether.

There are strict rules in place for importing vehicles and equipment to ensure they are free from harmful pests and diseases. KVH and other industry groups have been reiteraring this with importers of machinery and machinery parts, particularly in light of the threat of Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB), and most recently at Fieldays.