Under Portaria n. º 273/2022 of 10 November, and in alignment with Regulation (EC) No. 852/2004 and Implementing Regulation (EU) No. 543/2011, all stakeholders in the horticultural sector — including producers, packers, wholesalers, and direct sales agents — must be registered with IFAP, I.P.
Key Changes
Abolition of the HF Code: The previous horticultural identification number will no longer be valid.
Universal Registration Requirement: Every operator, without exception, must hold a valid NIFAP registration.
Registration Process: Applications must be submitted via the IFAP online portal, accompanied by identification documents and evidence of business activity. Early registration — prior to 11 November 2025 — is strongly advised to avoid operational disruption.
Documentary Updates: Labelling, commercial documentation, and contractual terms must be revised to incorporate specific clauses referencing the NIFAP.
Compliance is required immediately from the effective date; no grace period will apply.
Consequences of Non-Compliance:
Administrative Penalties: Fines, temporary suspension of operations, or exclusion from EU support programs.
Regulatory Enforcement: Sanctions may be imposed by IFAP, I.P. or ASAE, depending on the nature of the breach.
Loss of Eligibility: Unregistered operators will forfeit access to financial aid and community support schemes.
Steps to Ensure Compliance:
- Complete registration with IFAP before the deadline.
- Update all labelling, commercial documentation, and contractual provisions.
- Review internal processes to confirm adherence to the new legal requirements.
Belzuz Abogados, S.L.P. maintains a dedicated team in Portugal with extensive experience advising businesses in the agricultural and horticultural sectors. Our services include legal compliance audits, contract review and amendment, and support throughout the registration process, including liaison with regulatory authorities.