Invasive pests and sea containers: July 2026 progress report

ICHCA has published a July 2026 progress report on international work to reduce the transfer of invasive pests through the sea container pathway.

The progress report summarises current discussion around measures being considered by the CPM Focus Group and related industry bodies. At this stage, the direction appears to be towards practical and voluntary risk-reduction measures rather than immediate development of a new International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures.

Possible measures include pest-resistant container design specifications, broader use of the revised CTU Code, voluntary custodial responsibility clauses, national recognition or accreditation schemes, and targeted awareness and education packages.

ICHCA’s interest is focused on practical implementation and safety. Any pest-prevention measures must be safe, proportionate, achievable and supported by appropriate information, competence, equipment and controls. They should help reduce the risk of transferring invasive species without creating new hazards for people involved in packing, handling, inspection, cleaning, storage or transport operations.

The review also highlights a separate Asia-Pacific regional phytosanitary standards process. If implemented, this may affect movements from, to or through APPPC and PPPO member states and could have wider implications for containerised trade.

ICHCA will continue to monitor developments and engage with members and industry partners to support risk-based, practical and safety-conscious approaches to container cleanliness and invasive pest prevention.

Read the full position review: Invasive Pests on Sea Containers – Progress Report July 2026

Please note that this should be treated as a progress report only, based on information available at the time of drafting; it does not necessarily represent the settled views of organisations named and may change as formal processes continue.