ETÄMYNTISOPIMUS

ETÄMYNTISOPIMUS is a Finnish legal term that translates to "distance selling agreement." It refers to a contract concluded between a consumer and a trader without their simultaneous physical presence, typically through the use of distance communication techniques. This includes online shopping, mail order, and telephone sales.

The primary purpose of etämyyntisopimus legislation is to protect consumers by ensuring they have sufficient information and rights when making purchases remotely. Key provisions often include a mandatory information period before the contract is binding, a right to withdraw from the contract (cooling-off period), and specific requirements for traders regarding product descriptions and terms and conditions.

Under Finnish law, a consumer typically has a 14-day right of withdrawal from an etämyyntisopimus. This period usually begins from the day the consumer receives the goods or, in the case of services, from the day the contract is concluded. During this period, the consumer can return the goods or cancel the service without needing to provide a reason, although they may be responsible for the cost of return shipping.

Traders are obligated to provide clear and comprehensive information to consumers before, during, and after the conclusion of an etämyyntisopimus. This information includes details about the trader, the main characteristics of the goods or services, the total price, payment methods, delivery arrangements, and the consumer's right of withdrawal and any exceptions to it. Failure to provide this information can affect the trader's rights and the consumer's withdrawal period.