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A German court has ordered discount supermarket chain Aldi Sued to stop selling its version of the popular "Dubai chocolate," ruling that the product misled consumers into believing it was made in Dubai. The ruling, delivered by the Cologne Regional Court, sided with a German businessman who imports authentic "Dubai chocolate" directly from the UAE. The coveted treat, known for its pistachio filling and thin kunafa-like pastry, became a viral sensation on platforms like TikTok, where videos showcasing the dessert amassed tens of millions of views. The global craze led to a rush on stores and skyrocketing resale prices, with some bars being sold for hundreds of euros online. The lawsuit was filed by Andreas Wilmers, a German businessman who imports "Dubai chocolate" manufactured in the UAE. He took legal action after discovering that Aldi Sued was selling a product labeled "Alyan Dubai Handmade Chocolate" but produced in Turkey. "The average consumer would take 'Dubai Handmade Chocolate' to mean that the chocolate was manufactured in Dubai," the court ruled, adding that the product’s packaging and small-font "Origin: Turkey" label were insufficient to clarify its actual source. Wilmers explained that his customers raised concerns after tasting counterfeit versions of the chocolate. "If you see 'Dubai Handmade Chocolate' on a chocolate bar that is actually mass-produced in Turkey, that is simply unacceptable," Wilmers said. The court ordered Aldi Sued to bear the costs of the proceedings and prohibited the supermarket from further selling the product. Aldi Sued declined to comment, stating that the case remains part of "ongoing proceedings." Wilmers has previously taken action against other brands selling imitation "Dubai chocolate." A Swiss manufacturer revised its packaging after being confronted, and Wilmers is considering legal action against another German supermarket chain for refusing to withdraw a similar product. The case highlights the broader issue of misleading branding, particularly for products associated with specific geographic origins. "It’s not about stopping competition. It’s about transparency for the consumers," Wilmers emphasized. The viral popularity of "Dubai chocolate" has brought both challenges and opportunities for brands. The global appetite for the treat continues to grow, but counterfeit products risk tarnishing its reputation. ICA/Expat Media ALSO READ: 90kg luxury Dubai chocolates confiscated in Germany Filipino chef behind viral Dubai chocolate reveals new product Viral Dubai chocolate inspires imitation
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