Photo: ABF
A South Australian firm has been fined $14,000 for the illegal export of chemicals that were used in gas warfare during WWI.
The Australian Border Force (ABF) says the chemical company exported 700 litres of chloropicrin.
The chemical (also known as nitrochloroform) is used in agriculture as a soil fumigant but was also used in chemical warfare during World War I.
ABF Superintendent James Ryan says they are working hand-in-glove with partner agencies to control the export of toxic substances that may be used in chemical and biological weapons against Australia.
“Trade of dual-use chemicals must be closely scrutinised and requires authorisation,” he says.
“In the wrong hands, a chemical like this can be used to cause significant damage to a person’s lungs, skin, eyes and digestive system.”
“Whether it’s driven by intent to cause harm or simply lack of understanding of the regulations, the ABF will ensure we protect Australia’s national security.”
The ABF says it began investigating the company after a routine audit revealed it exported controlled toxic substances without permission.
Defence Export Controls officers from the Department of Defence confirmed the company had not sought permission to export the chloropicrin, an ABF statement says.
Border Force officers interviewed senior managers at the company and discovered the export was a breach of the Customs Act 1901.
ABOUT CHLOROPICRIN
Chloropicrin is classified as a controlled toxic chemical under the international Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons’ Chemical Weapons Convention.
It was discussed by the Australia Group, a multi-lateral export control regime of 42 countries and the European Union, permanently chaired by Australia.
The South Australian company was fined $14,085 for breaching the Act and provided with educational material, the ABF says.
The company has since paid the infringement notice and adapted its business processes to ensure compliance with customs and federal law.
