Guidelines and procedures for the implementation of electronic identification shall be adopted in accordance with the procedure referred to in Article 13(2).

The decisions referred to in paragraph 1 shall be adopted in order to improve implementation of general electronic identification.

As from 31 December 2009 , electronic identification according to the guidelines referred to in paragraph 1, and in accordance with the relevant provisions of Section A of the Annex, shall be obligatory for all animals.

However, Member States in which the total number of ovine and caprine animals is 600 000 or less, may make such electronic identification optional for animals not involved in intra-Community trade.

Member States in which the total number of caprine animals is 160 000 or less may also make such electronic identification optional for caprine animals not involved in intra-Community trade.

Before 31 December 2009 , Member States may introduce the obligatory use of electronic identification for animals born on their territory.