Wood borer detection rates on wood packaging materials entering the United States during different phases of ISPM 15 implementation and regulatory changes

Wood packaging material (WPM) used in international trade, such as crating and pallets, is recognized a high-risk pathway for the introduction of bark- wood-infesting insects (borers). The International Standards Phytosanitary Measures No. 15 (ISPM 15), which sets treatment requirements WPM, was adopted 2002. United States (US) implemented ISPM during 2005–2006. We 2003–2020 AQIM (Agriculture Quarantine Inspection Monitoring, conducted by USDA APHIS) data, based on standard random sampling, to compare pre-ISPM borer detection rates WPM entering US (2003–2004) 2005–2006 (implementation phase), 2007–2009 (post-ISPM when bark not regulated) 2010–2020 regulated). examined overall all records individually three main cargo survey programs within [Italian tiles, perishables, general (GWPM) any associated with containerized maritime imports], major trading partners (China, Italy, Mexico). During 2003–2020, wood borers were detected 180 87,571 consignments (0.21%). When compared 2003–2004 (detection rate 0.34%), fell 61% 2005–2006, 47% 2007–2009, 36% 2010–2020. Similar declines occurred Italian tiles perishables. However, GWPM there no significant reduction post-ISPM 15. infestation reduced significantly various periods Italy Mexico, but China. Seven families or subfamilies recorded Cerambycidae Scolytinae being most frequent. incidence after 2009 change that required debarked WPM. discuss several factors could influence apparent effectiveness