From the latest Australia–UAE trade agreement to shifting freight patterns and seasonal fluctuations, a lot is happening across the supply chain right now.

This edition of Global Movements brings together the key changes and insights to help you stay informed and plan with confidence.

Trade Update: Australia–UAE Deal Opens New Doors

Freight Market Snapshot

Tools, Grants & Support for Exporters

Global Trade Trends to Watch

• Red sea rerouting: Ongoing security concerns are forcing longer voyages around Africa, increasing transit times and insurance costs.
• Sustainability pressures: Buyers are now asking for proof of carbon reduction and ethical sourcing from suppliers.
• E-commerce acceleration: Growing demand for faster delivery is driving regional warehousing and multi-modal logistics.
• Supply diversification: Companies are spreading production across regions (“nearshoring”) to reduce disruption risk.

Quick Bits

• Port technology upgrades: New Scanning systems rolling out across Townsville, Sydney and Brisbane are expected to speed up clearances once live.
  Weather watch: Spring storms in East Asia continue to cause minor schedule disruptions; build flexibility into your timelines.
• Container demand: Availability is tightening again for 20-foot and refrigerated containers; plan ahead to secure equipment.

We’re Here to help

At Dyson Logistics, we recognise that the global trade and customs environments are evolving rapidly. Whether you’re navigating a sudden tariff change, managing a complex freight route, or adapting to new customs requirements, our team is here to help.

Let us simplify your international shipping challenges with reliable service and expert advice tailored to your industry.

Please reach out to your Dyson Logistics representative today or call (02) 8339 1844 to talk about how we can help with your upcoming shipments or compliance needs.

Global Movements is your monthly insider guide to keeping shipments on track and costs under control. Subscribe today.

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From 1 October 2025, China will introduce new export compliance regulations that will reshape how goods are shipped out of the country. What’s changing?

• Exporter Registration: All exporters must now register with Chinese tax authorities before goods can clear customs.
• End of Third-Party Declarations: Using another company’s name or licence to declare exports is no longer permitted.
• Factory Disclosure: Even without an export licence, factories must be listed on paperwork, with full name, address, and tax ID details.

What this means for you:

• Shipments under Ex-Works (EXW) and Free Carrier (FCA) terms could face additional risks if exporters are not properly registered.
• Delays are expected as the new system beds in, particularly for shipments rolling from September into October.
• Non-compliance could result in fines, rejected shipments, and legal penalties.

Our advice: If your supply chain relies on Chinese suppliers, now is the time to speak with them. Confirm they are registered and compliant to avoid disruptions. Need help reviewing your arrangements? Dyson Logistics can work with your suppliers and agents in China to ensure a smooth transition.

New Biosecurity Treatment for BMSB Season

The Department of Agriculture has introduced a new treatment option for Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB): ethyl formate combined with carbon dioxide. Why this matters:

• Effective from 1 September 2025, this gives shippers another option for managing BMSB risk.
• The treatment is currently approved for offshore, pre-arrival use (onshore application expected from 2026–27).
• It enhances fumigation effectiveness but isn’t yet suitable for timber or perishables.

What to keep in mind:

• Seasonal BMSB measures still apply to targeted goods shipped between 1 September 2025 and 30 April 2026.
• Extra safety controls apply where ethyl formate has been used offshore, including supervised inspections.

Dyson works closely with accredited providers and can guide you on which treatment is most suitable for your cargo.

China Golden Week: Prepare for Supply Chain Disruptions

China’s Golden Week holiday runs from 1–8 October 2025, coinciding with the Mid-Autumn Festival. It’s one of the busiest times of the year, with widespread closures and travel congestion. Expect:

• Factory shutdowns and reduced trucking/warehousing capacity.
• Port and airport congestion before and after the break.
• Tight vessel and air freight space, with rate volatility likely afterwards.

How to prepare:

• Book early: Space will be extremely limited — locking in capacity now is critical.
• Plan for delays: Anticipate congestion and possible rolled cargo.
• Stay flexible: Carriers may issue last-minute schedule changes.

Our team is already securing space and working with partners to minimise disruption for our clients. If you haven’t booked October shipments yet, reach out today.

Tariff Reform: Cutting Red Tape for Importers

The government has confirmed the next step in its tariff reform program. From 1 July 2026, around 500 nuisance tariffs will be abolished. Why this is good news:

• Many of these tariffs cost more in compliance time than they generate in revenue.
• With most goods already duty-free under trade agreements, these reforms simplify imports and reduce unnecessary costs.
• This aligns with broader efforts to make cross-border trade more efficient and competitive.

Read the full announcement here.

We’ll continue to keep you informed on trade reforms and industry updates, and work alongside you to help navigate any changes with confidence.

A Refreshed National Freight Strategy

The Federal Government has released an updated National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy alongside a five-year National Action Plan. Four priority areas: 1. Productivity – boosting efficiency across freight networks. 2. Resilience – building stronger systems to handle disruptions. 3. Decarbonisation – supporting the shift to lower-emission transport. 4. Data – improving decision-making with better information. Key initiatives:

• A National Freight Resilience Plan to coordinate responses to supply chain shocks.
• A Freight Infrastructure Investment Framework to guide where funding is directed.
• Research and promotion of zero-emission technologies for trucks and locomotives.

As freight volumes are projected to grow 26% by 2050, these changes are aimed at future-proofing the sector. Dyson Logistics remains engaged in industry forums and government consultations, ensuring our clients benefit from the latest policy initiatives.

We’re Here to help

At Dyson Logistics, we recognise that the global trade and customs environments are evolving rapidly. Whether you’re navigating a sudden tariff change, managing a complex freight route, or adapting to new customs requirements, our team is here to help.

Let us simplify your international shipping challenges with reliable service and expert advice tailored to your industry.

Please reach out to your Dyson Logistics representative today or call (02) 8339 1844 to talk about how we can help with your upcoming shipments or compliance needs.

Global Movements is your monthly insider guide to keeping shipments on track and costs under control. Subscribe today.

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Freight Update: Rates Easing, But Plan Ahead

• Check your exposure to the U.S. market, especially if you’re in pharma or supply components to that sector.
• Make sure your paperwork is watertight to avoid getting caught up in transshipment checks.
• Start thinking about price and supply adjustments now, not later.

We’re Here to help

At Dyson Logistics, we recognise that the global trade and customs environments are evolving rapidly. Whether you’re navigating a sudden tariff change, managing a complex freight route, or adapting to new customs requirements, our team is here to help. Let us simplify your international shipping challenges with reliable service and expert advice tailored to your industry.

Please reach out to your Dyson Logistics representative today or call (02) 8339 1844 to discuss how we can help with your upcoming shipments or compliance needs.

Stay ahead of delays, tariffs, and rate changes. Global Movements is your monthly insider guide to keeping shipments on track and costs under control. Subscribe today.

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If you’re an importer bringing goods into Australia between September and April, you’ve no doubt heard of the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) and the headaches it can cause. These tiny pests might look harmless, but they’re a serious threat to agriculture, and the biosecurity measures in place to stop them can cause major delays if you’re not prepared.

At Dyson Logistics, we help our clients navigate these seasonal measures every year. Here’s our 2025–26 guide so you can keep your cargo moving and avoid costly surprises.

When Does the BMSB Season Apply?

The BMSB risk season runs from 1 September 2025 to 30 April 2026. Importantly, it’s the “shipped on board” date from your Bill of Lading that counts, not the date it arrives or leaves the warehouse. If your shipment is loaded during that window and comes from a risk country, the seasonal measures will apply.

Which Countries Are on the Risk List?

Each year, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) reviews where stink bugs are most active. This year, the target-risk list includes most of Europe, North America, and parts of Asia  as well as places like the USA, Canada, Italy, Germany, France, Turkey, and Japan.

A full list can be found at Seasonal measures for Brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) – DAFF.

We also have emerging-risk countries that are not yet in the mandatory treatment category, but they’re still watched closely. For 2025–26, that includes the United Kingdom, China, Japan and the Republic of Korea. Goods from these countries won’t automatically need treatment, but they can be pulled aside for random inspections at the border.

What Types of Goods Are Affected?

The rules don’t apply to every product—but they do apply to a wide range of manufactured goods.

Target high-risk goods must be treated before they can enter Australia. These include:

Target-risk goods – things like certain chemicals, plastics, paper products, and textiles, don’t require mandatory treatment, but they’re still subject to random inspections. These include:

One crucial catch: if you’re shipping mixed cargo, and any part of it is classed as high-risk or risk, the entire container will be treated as such.

How Do You Treat Goods?

There are a few DAFF-approved ways to treat BMSB risk goods:

• Heat treatment
• Methyl bromide fumigation
• Sulfuryl fluoride fumigation
• Ethyl formate + CO₂ (this new option starts 1 September 2025 and is offshore only)

Treatments must be carried out by a DAFF-approved offshore provider under the AusTreat program. Using an unapproved or suspended provider will lead to your cargo being rejected, sent for onshore treatment (at your expense), or even shipped back to origin.

Break-Bulk, Containers, and What’s Allowed

If your high-risk goods are shipped as break-bulk cargo, like on flat racks or open-top containers, they must be treated offshore. Onshore treatment isn’t allowed for these loads, and untreated cargo will be turned away.

If your goods are in sealed, six-sided containers (FCL, FCX, LCL), you can choose between offshore or onshore treatment, but you can’t open or de-consolidate the load before treatment is done.,

The Safeguarding Arrangements Scheme

For some importers, the Safeguarding Scheme offers a way to bypass mandatory treatment altogether. This program is for sealed, hard-sided containers that are packed and handled under strict conditions that prevent stink bug contamination.

For the 2025–26 season, applications open on 28 July 2025 and close on 30 January 2026. You’ll need to provide a mitigation plan, contingency plan, and importer declarations for every shipment. Even under this scheme, DAFF can still do random inspections, so it’s not a free pass, but it can speed things up significantly if you qualify.

To check if you’re eligible for the Scheme, visit to Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry website or contact us to discuss.

What Happens If You Don’t Comply With the BMSB Measures?

Ignoring or misunderstanding the BMSB requirements can quickly turn a smooth shipment into a costly headache. At the very least, non-compliance will mean delays and extra expenses. Your cargo may be held for onshore fumigation by an approved provider, at your expense, while racking up storage fees and potentially sitting idle for days, if not weeks.

The risks don’t stop there. Depending on the circumstances, goods can be refused entry, re-exported to origin, or even destroyed to protect Australia’s biosecurity.

That’s why it’s essential to have experienced professionals assess your cargo before shipping. At Dyson Logistics, we review your documentation, origin details, and HS codes, and we coordinate with DAFF-approved treatment providers—helping you avoid compliance pitfalls before they become costly problems.

How Dyson Logistics Keeps You Moving

BMSB season doesn’t have to be stressful—if you’re prepared. We help our clients by:

• Auditing their HS codes and country of origin to determine which rules apply
• Booking treatments with trusted, approved providers
• Checking documentation before shipping to avoid rejections at the border
• Coordinating with unpack locations that meet DAFF’s Approved Arrangement requirements
• Keeping you up-to-date if DAFF changes the risk list mid-season

Speak to one of our team today on (02) 8339 1844 or send us a message via the contacts page.

Australia is bracing for a wave of U.S. tariffs targeting pharmaceutical and mineral exports, set to take effect on 1 August. The proposed tariffs, up to 200% on pharmaceutical products and 50% on copper, are part of a broader American strategy to protect domestic industry.

These measures could significantly affect Australian exporters, particularly those in New South Wales and Victoria, where pharmaceutical production is concentrated and copper mining is a major export industry. The Australian government is currently seeking clarification and considering possible diplomatic responses.

Container Rates Dip, But Port Pressures Remain

The global container market has seen a modest 7% dip in spot rates in early July, according to the Drewry World Container Index. This comes amid easing demand on certain routes and increased carrier competition.

However, importers continue to face significant operational challenges, particularly in ports such as Melbourne and Fremantle, where delays are growing due to equipment shortages and infrastructure constraints. The combination of rate relief and logistical bottlenecks creates a mixed environment for importers and exporters alike.

Other notable freight trends
U.S. East Coast congestion continues to disrupt trans-Pacific routes, with knock-on effects for Australian shipments via transhipment ports.

Asia-Australia trade lanes show moderate rate relief but remain volatile due to blank sailings and inconsistent carrier schedules. 

Peak Season Surcharges (PSS) have been reinstated by several major carriers, effective July 15, raising the cost of shipping during high-demand periods.

Tip: Book freight at least 3-4 weeks in advance to secure space and competitive pricing for August and September imports. Consider alternative ports or off-peak windows for improved reliability.

New Working Capital Loan Support for Exporters

Export Finance Australia has launched a new working capital loan program specifically designed for small to medium-sized exporters. The program offers low-documentation loans of up to $350,000 and is intended to support SMEs facing cash flow gaps related to international trade.

Funding can be used to purchase stock, invest in marketing or fulfil large export orders. The streamlined application process is designed to eliminate administrative barriers for eligible businesses.

Eligibility: Businesses must be Australian-based with a turnover under $20 million. Applicants must have a confirmed export contract or be supplying to another Australian business that exports overseas.

Apply before August 31 at exportfinance.gov.au. 

We’re Here to help

At Dyson Logistics, we recognise that the global trade and customs environments are evolving rapidly. Whether you’re navigating a sudden tariff change, managing a complex freight route, or adapting to new customs requirements, our team is here to help. Let us simplify your international shipping challenges with reliable service and expert advice tailored to your industry.

Please reach out to your Dyson Logistics representative today or call (02) 4322 2246 to discuss how we can help with your upcoming shipments or compliance needs.

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Effective 4 June, the U.S. has increased tariffs on aluminium and steel imports from 25% to 50%. These updated tariffs now apply only to the actual metal content (as defined under Chapters 73 and 76 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule), rather than the full value of the imported product.

Following this change, CBP has amended the list of impacted tariff codes—some items have now been excluded. Importers should review their supply chains to assess any impact.

Australia–UK Free Trade Agreement: Progress Update

Australian and UK trade officials met in Paris on 3 June 2025 for the second Joint Committee meeting under the Australia–UK Free Trade Agreement (A-UKFTA). The ministers celebrated the growing trade and investment relationship, with two-way trade reaching AUD36 billion in 2024.

Foreign Direct Investment continues to grow, with UK investment in Australia hitting AUD156 billion and Australian investment in the UK reaching AUD210 billion—both posting strong year-on-year growth.

Since the agreement came into force in May 2023:
• Around 70% of traded goods have taken advantage of tariff preferences
• AUD3.4bn of UK goods into Australia (65%) used preferential access
• GBP662m of Australian goods into the UK (77%) used preferential access

These benefits are translating into significant duty savings for businesses in both countries.
The Joint Committee also discussed:
• Progress in mutual recognition of professional qualifications
• Innovation collaboration through a proposed ‘biobridge’ to accelerate access to new health technologies
• Ongoing commitment to a strong, rules-based trading system, with cooperation via the WTO, OECD, and CPTPP

Australia–China Red Meat Access Expands

Seventeen Australian meat processing facilities have received new or expanded approvals to export chilled and frozen sheep, lamb, and goat meat to China—an encouraging sign for Australia’s red meat export industry.

In a parallel development, China has lifted the last remaining suspensions on two Australian beef facilities, supporting a strong rebound in beef exports. With U.S. exports declining, Australian grain-fed beef is increasingly filling the gap in Chinese demand.

However, rising volumes may soon trigger China’s 2025 Safeguard Mechanism. If the volume threshold is exceeded, a 12% MFN tariff will apply—potentially as early as July or August.

CBP Warns of Tariff Workaround Schemes

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Trade has issued a caution for importers—especially small business operators—about illegal tariff avoidance schemes being marketed as “shortcuts” or workarounds.

One example involves routing goods manufactured in China through third countries to disguise their origin and take advantage of lower tariffs. This is known as illegal transshipment, and it’s a serious offence. Importers—not the overseas suppliers—bear the legal and financial consequences.

The risks include:
• Seizure of goods
• Criminal liability
• Business disruptions
• Heavy fines
• Revocation of import privileges

US–UK Economic Prosperity Deal Nears Completion

The United States and United Kingdom are finalising parts of a trade deal that will lower tariffs on UK vehicle exports in exchange for better U.S. access to the UK beef and ethanol markets.

Negotiations are continuing around steel, where the UK is seeking zero-tariff access for its exporters to the U.S. market. Updates are expected in the coming weeks.

U.S.–China Tariff Agreement

In a welcome move to ease trade tensions, the U.S. and China have reached a new agreement reducing previously proposed tariff hikes. Instead of the initially planned 145% on Chinese goods and 125% on U.S. exports, the new agreed rates are 30% and 10%, respectively.

The deal includes the removal of Chinese restrictions on the export of rare earth minerals—essential for industries such as defence, clean energy, electronics, and advanced manufacturing.