Integrated farming (also known as SQNPI) is a voluntary agri-food production system that uses all means of production and defense against adversities. It is aimed at minimizing the use of synthetic chemicals and rationalizing fertilization, in compliance with ecological, economic and toxicological principles (Law No. 4 of February 3, 2011).

It is a Quality System recognized at EU level (Reg. CE 1974/2006), and it is open to: producers, processors, suppliers (in the case of bulk products).

The application (submitted on the SIAN platform within the terms established by the system and available on the Rete Rurale Nazionale portal) is aimed at obtaining one of the following:

  1. SQNPI certificate;
  2. agri-environment-climate compliance (ACA);
  3. agri-environment-climate compliance (ACA) and SQNPI certificate.

The operator can apply autonomously if in possession of the system credentials (qualified user) or through his own CAA (Agricultural Assistance Centre). In the case of associated producers, it is possible to do so through the legal representative of the association (as an institutional user, subject to authorization).

For more information and to access the IT platform, please visit the official website of Rete Rurale.

While applying for SQNPI membership, the applicant must also choose the accredited CB from a list managed by the Italian Ministry. The application deadlines are established as follows:

FARMERS:

  • membership to obtain the SQNPI certificate: from January 1 to June 15;
  • membership to obtain the ACA compliance: from January 1 to June 15;
  • membership to obtain both the SQNPI certificate and ACA compliance: from January 1 to June 15.

PROCESSORS AND SUPPLIERS:

at any time of the year and, in any case, before the start of activities carried out under the SQNPI scheme. Operators can apply exclusively to obtain the SQNPI label and any optional transitional certification.

FOR THE FOLLOWING YEARS:

In the years following application, it is mandatory for all operators to submit an update application by 15 June of each year or, in the case of application aimed at ACA compliance, by the date established by the local region in charge, in order to proceed with the confirmation or change of the CB, as well as any other requested information.

Both the SQNPI membership application and the update application must include the following information:

  • the crop to be certified;
  • the cultivation plan;
  • any UEC (elementary unit of cultivation);
  • the chosen CB;
  • a new, or the updated version of the farm’s dossier.