France Moves to Suspend Shein’s Marketplace Over Illegal Listings

France’s government announced on November 6, 2023, its intention to suspend access to the Shein online marketplace. This decision follows the discovery of illegal listings for weapons and child-like sex dolls on the fast-fashion retailer’s platform. The Ministry of Finance indicated that if Shein cannot demonstrate compliance with French law, authorities may proceed with full suspension of the site.

Officials uncovered “large quantities” of illegal items classified as “Class A” weapons during inspections of Shein’s e-commerce platform. This category includes firearms, knives, and other dangerous materials. The ministry also highlighted the recent finding of sex dolls resembling children, prompting immediate action.

The announcement coincided with the opening of Shein’s first permanent store in Paris, located in the iconic BHV Marais department store. The launch attracted both eager shoppers and a small group of protesters, who expressed their discontent with the brand’s practices. Security personnel intervened to manage the disruption.

Despite the government’s directive, Shein’s French website remained operational as of Wednesday. The ministry expects to provide a progress report within 48 hours. In a statement, Shein, which originated in China and is now based in Singapore, expressed its commitment to collaborate with French authorities to resolve any concerns swiftly.

French law mandates that online platforms must remove illegal content within 24 hours upon notification. Failure to comply could lead to broader action from authorities, including blocking access to the site. Frederic Merlin, the president of Societe des Grands Magasins, praised the government’s move, stating, “I am satisfied with this decision and I hope that, in the end, we will be able to stop selling illicit products on these marketplaces.”

Neil Saunders, managing director of research firm GlobalData, warned that the controversy surrounding the listings could pose significant risks for Shein, especially as it considers going public. He noted that the perception of Chinese-founded marketplaces as lacking compliance could deter investors. “Child sexual abuse material crosses an important moral boundary,” he emphasized, highlighting the severity of the issue.

In response to the backlash, Shein has already taken steps to address the concerns. The company stated it would ban all sex-doll products, temporarily remove its adult products category for review, and suspend listings from independent vendors pending an investigation into how these listings bypassed its screening measures.

This controversy adds to the ongoing criticism Shein has faced over its environmental practices and labor policies. Even before the current uproar, the company’s decision to open a store in Paris drew criticism from environmental groups and local industry representatives. An online petition opposing the store’s opening collected over 120,000 signatures, reflecting widespread discontent.

Ticia Ones, a Paris resident and regular Shein customer, visited the store primarily to examine products before purchase. “We can see what we order, touch the items, it’s a good thing,” she stated, acknowledging the appeal of the brand’s low prices despite the surrounding controversy.

The BHV Marais store has struggled financially in recent years, and its owners view the partnership with Shein as a potential lifeline. Karl-Stephane Cottendin, chief operating officer of SGM, remarked, “We are proud to have a partner who has spoken out firmly. We are very happy to be opening the boutique.”

As the situation unfolds, the outcome of Shein’s compliance efforts and the government’s response will likely shape the future of the brand in France and its broader reputation in Europe.