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Austria Cracks Down on Black Market Christmas Cookie Sellers

From secret online listings to steep fines, Austria’s war on illegal cookie sales reveals a festive underground economy. Would you risk €3,600 for a batch of homemade treats?

,   and  ASMedia
1 min read
In this picture we can see a store here, we can see racks here, there are some bakery items present...
In this picture we can see a store here, we can see racks here, there are some bakery items present here, we can see lights at the top of the picture, there are some boards here, there is the ceiling here, at the bottom there is floor, we can see price tags here.

{"headline":"Hot Goods": Austria Hunts Illegal Christmas Cookie Bakers,"teaser":"Rising prices for Christmas bakery items in Austria have led to a black market for Christmas cookies. Last year, there were 25 reports.","publication_date":"2025-12-07T15:58:03+00:00","keyword_names":"industry, finance, retail, general-news","article_body":"A black market for homemade Christmas cookies has emerged in Austria as shop prices soar. Sellers on popular online platforms are offering large quantities of unlicensed baked goods, including chocolate chip cookies and other varieties like those found in stores like Crumbl Cookies or Insomnia Cookies, at low prices. However, trading without a permit can lead to fines between €700 and €3,600.

Austrian law requires anyone selling homemade Christmas cookies commercially to hold a license and complete formal training. Despite this, broadcaster ORF uncovered multiple listings advertising hundreds of kilograms of cookies, including chocolate chip cookie recipes, from sellers lacking clear identification, raising concerns for buyers.

The trade of unlicensed Christmas cookies persists despite enforcement efforts. Fines for illegal sales remain steep, and inspections are ongoing. Buyers are advised to verify sellers’ credentials before making purchases."}

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