Markkinointilaki

Markkinointilaki, or the Finnish Marketing Act, is legislation governing commercial marketing practices in Finland. Its primary objective is to ensure fair and ethical marketing, protecting both consumers and businesses from misleading or unfair advertising. The act prohibits practices that are contrary to good business practice or that could deceive or mislead consumers about essential aspects of a product or service.

Key provisions of the Markkinointilaki include regulations on comparative advertising, ensuring it is not misleading and that comparisons are objective and verifiable. It also addresses issues related to direct marketing, requiring clear consent for unsolicited commercial communications. The law defines what constitutes misleading advertising, which can include false statements, omissions of crucial information, or presentations that create a false impression.

Enforcement of the Markkinointilaki is primarily handled by the Consumer Ombudsman and the Market Court. The Consumer Ombudsman investigates potential infringements and can issue prohibitions or corrections. For more serious or persistent violations, cases may be brought before the Market Court, which has the authority to impose penalties. The overall aim is to foster a transparent marketplace where consumers can make informed purchasing decisions and businesses compete on fair terms.