German Court Stops Aldi from Selling Turkish “Dubai Chocolate”

A German court has barred the discount supermarket chain Aldi Sued from selling a Turkish-made “Dubai Handmade Chocolate”, ruling the branding misleads consumers about its origin.

Following a lawsuit by importer Andreas Wilmers, the Cologne court found that the label could lead consumers to believe the chocolate was made in Dubai. Wilmers had contested Aldi Sued’s use of “Alyan Dubai Handmade Chocolate” for a product made in Turkey.

The court criticized the “Origin: Turkey” label for its small font and placement on the back, which it deemed inadequate to correct the misconception.

Wilmers expressed his dissatisfaction, remarking, “Seeing ‘Dubai Handmade Chocolate’ on a bar mass-produced in Turkey is simply unacceptable.” He suggested that labelling it “Dubai style” would be more appropriate.

This legal action coincides with the viral popularity of pistachio-filled Dubai chocolate on platforms like TikTok, which triggered buying frenzies and led to inflated resale prices.

Aldi Sued has opted not to comment on the ongoing case.

Wilmers also revealed ongoing legal actions against other companies producing similar products, including a Swiss chocolatier that changed its packaging. He plans to pursue another German supermarket chain to sell a similar product.