Regulation (EU) 2016/2031 lays down rules concerning the content and the format of the plant passport required for movement within the Union territory, and into and within protected zones, of certain plants, plant products and other objects.

Τhe plant passport for movement within the Union territory includes a traceability code, except for certain plants for planting being ready for the sale to final users. That exception does not apply to types and species of plants for planting to be listed by the Commission.

Certain plants for planting are subject to Union measures adopted pursuant to Article 28 or Article 30 of Regulation (EU) 2016/2031 for specific pests. Some of these plants for planting, in particular those that are known to be more likely infested or infected with those specific pests or that have been intercepted on the internal market because of their infestation or infection with those specific pests, may contribute to spreading those pests within the Union, and thus increase a potential of those pests to cause a major and long-term negative impact on those plants for planting.

Certain of those plants for planting have been intercepted, while moving within the Union, for hosting Union quarantine pests.

It is therefore appropriate to require a traceability code for all cases of plant passports issued for those plants for planting, in order to enhance rapid traceability of those plants.

In order for the professional operators and the competent authorities to have adequate time to adapt to those requirements, this Regulation should apply from 31 December 2021.

The measures provided for in this Regulation are in accordance with the opinion of the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed,