BusinessTurkiye

German Court Bans ‘Dubai Chocolate’ Made in Turkey: Must Be Produced in Dubai

A German court has banned the sale of ‘Dubai Chocolate’ that is not produced in Dubai, targeting the Aldi Süd supermarket chain. The decision was made by the Cologne Court following a complaint by businessman Andreas Wilmers.

In Cologne, Germany, the court ruled that chocolates made in Turkey and sold under the label “Dubai Chocolate” were misleading, prompting a ban. Aldi Süd’s product, marketed as “Alyan Handmade Dubai Chocolate,” came under scrutiny after Wilmers filed a complaint.

‘Made in Turkey’ Label Deemed Insufficient
The court stated that consumers are likely to assume the chocolate is produced in Dubai due to the “Handmade Dubai Chocolate” label. Furthermore, the small print on the back of the product indicating “Made in Turkey” was found inadequate to correct this impression. Under the court’s ruling, Aldi Süd must also cover the plaintiff’s legal expenses.

Complainant Suggests Alternative Labeling
Andreas Wilmers, a businessman who imports Dubai-made chocolates, said he received consumer complaints regarding the taste of the product popularized on social media. Speaking to AFP, Wilmers commented, “It is unacceptable for a chocolate produced in Turkey to bear the label ‘Handmade Dubai Chocolate.’ A more accurate term like ‘Dubai-style’ could be used instead.”

Previous Complaint Filed in Switzerland
Wilmers had previously filed a similar complaint in Switzerland, resulting in packaging changes by the chocolate producer. He also indicated plans to take legal action against another supermarket chain in Germany.

The court’s decision, which can still be appealed, is being seen as an important step toward preventing misleading practices that could misinform consumers.

Source: CNBC-e/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök

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