Thanks to these recent reforms there are now tangible methods of punishing those in violation of authors rights. The abovementioned changes are in accordance with steps taken by the European Parliament. Money Laundering Amendments to the Administrative Offensive Code and Criminal Code concerning money laundering were passed by the Riigikogu on January 25, 1999. The Criminal Code now prescribes a term of imprisonment for 3 to 10 years for money laundering by an organized group. This code will come into effect on July 1, 1999.
Consumer law establishes rules for overall market activity.
First, consumer law specifically defines and protects consumers. This definition excludes companies and natural persons engaged in business. Every business offering goods or services to consumers is required to comply with certain laws regarding the quality as well as the offering procedure and terms of guarantee of the goods or services. Goods and services must be properly labeled with the text in Estonian. The government has recently adopted legislation regarding this labeling which affects all products on the market.