Etämyyntilaki

Etämyyntilaki, or the distance selling act, is legislation in Finland that governs contracts concluded between a trader and a consumer without the simultaneous physical presence of both parties. This typically includes sales made online, by telephone, mail order, or through other remote communication channels. The primary purpose of the law is to protect consumers by providing them with certain rights and information before, during, and after the purchase.

A key provision of the etämyyntilaki is the consumer's right of withdrawal. Consumers generally have a 14-day cooling-off period during which they can cancel a distance contract without providing any reason and without incurring penalties. This period usually starts from the day the consumer receives the goods or, in the case of services, from the day the contract is concluded. During this period, consumers can examine the goods as they would be able to in a physical store.

Traders are obligated to provide consumers with comprehensive information before a distance contract is concluded. 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. Failure to provide this information can extend the withdrawal period.

There are exceptions to the etämyyntilaki, such as contracts for customized goods, perishable items, audio or video recordings or software if unsealed by the consumer, and services that have already been fully performed with the consumer's consent. The law aims to ensure a fair and transparent marketplace for remote transactions, balancing the convenience of distance selling with consumer protection.