European Union regulators are increasing their examination of Shein’s safety protocols following the discovery of illegal weapons and childlike sex dolls on the fast-fashion retailer’s website by French authorities. On 25 November, the European Commission announced that it is employing the 27-nation bloc’s digital regulatory framework to request additional information from Shein regarding its efforts to protect minors and prevent the sale of illegal goods on its online platform.
Shein has faced significant criticism in France after officials identified sex dolls with childlike features available for purchase, alongside a substantial quantity of illegal “Class A” weapons, which include firearms, knives, and machetes. In light of these findings, the French government has suspended access to Shein’s website in France. It has prompted the European Commission, the EU’s executive body, to investigate under the Digital Services Act. This legislation mandates that online platforms implement robust user protection measures, with the possibility of significant financial penalties for non-compliance.
The Commission has formally requested information from Shein due to growing concerns that the company may present systemic risks to consumers throughout the European Union. Spokesman Thomas Regnier remarked, “We seek to understand what systems the company has implemented to prevent the sale of illegal goods online, as well as the measures in place to restrict access to these products by minors.”
Shein has confirmed receipt of the information request and has stated, “We are committed to addressing this matter promptly.”
Founded in China in 2012 and currently headquartered in Singapore, Shein maintains an ongoing and constructive dialogue with EU regulators regarding these issues.
This article used information from The Associated Press.
