Court Blocks Aldi Süd's Sale of 'Dubai Chocolate' Over Misleading Labeling
A German court ruled that products labeled as 'Dubai Chocolate' must have a genuine connection to Dubai, leading to a temporary ban on Aldi's product made in Turkey.
- The Landgericht Köln issued a preliminary injunction preventing Aldi Süd from selling its 'Alyan Dubai Handmade Chocolate,' citing misleading geographic labeling.
- The court determined that the product's name could lead consumers to believe it was made in Dubai, though it was actually produced in Turkey.
- The lawsuit was initiated by Andreas Wilmers, an importer of Dubai-made Fex chocolate, who argued the labeling constituted unfair competition.
- Aldi Süd has removed the product from its stores and online shop but may appeal the ruling, which is not yet legally binding.
- The decision reflects wider disputes over the use of 'Dubai Chocolate' as a geographic or generic term, as the sweet has gained global popularity through social media trends.
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