However, the extent of such production is not known. Authorities underscore that the privatization of chemical laboratories may have led to use of such facilities for illicit purposes. Russia's well-developed chemical industry is also vulnerable to illicit drug operations. The industry exports small quantities of precursor and essential chemicals, primarily acetic anhydride, to industries in Eastern Europe and Finland. The lack of sufficient legislation offers the illicit drug trade increasing opportunities for exploitation.
Money laundering is also of concern in Russia.
Although most evidence of money laundering is derived from indirect sources, the lack of regulatory controls or legislation inhibits government efforts to target drug money laundering operations. Russian officials speculate that criminals have taken control of some banks and laundering proceeds from a wide variety of criminal activities, including drugs. A new criminal code includes specific sanctions for money laundering. The government has submitted a comprehensive draft law on money laundering to the Russian state Duma. Country Actions Against Drugs in 1996 Policy Initiatives.