France Suspends Shein's Online Platform Following Controversy Over Inappropriate Products Amid Paris Store Opening

France has suspended access to Shein's online platform until its content complies with French law following a controversial opening day for the fast-fashion giant in Paris.

On Wednesday, as Shein celebrated the launch of its first permanent store in Paris's iconic BHV department store, the French government announced the suspension of the company's online platform. This decision came after disturbing discoveries of childlike sex dolls listed for sale on Shein's website, though the Finance Ministry did not specify whether this would affect the physical store.

The opening attracted both enthusiastic shoppers and vocal protesters. Environmental groups, Paris City Hall officials, and representatives from France's ready-to-wear industry have strongly opposed Shein's presence in the fashion capital, citing concerns over the company's environmental impact and labor practices.

In response to the controversy, Shein stated it has banned all sex-doll products and temporarily removed its entire adult products category for comprehensive review. The company has also initiated an investigation to determine how these prohibited items bypassed their screening protocols.

An online petition against the Paris store has garnered over 120,000 signatures, with child-protection and environmental organizations publicly condemning the brand. During the opening ceremony, protesters with anti-Shein signs briefly disrupted proceedings before security personnel escorted them out.

Despite the protests, substantial crowds of shoppers attended the opening. Ticia Ones, a Paris resident and regular Shein online customer, appreciated the opportunity to examine products in person before purchasing. "We can see what we order, touch the items, it's a good thing," she remarked, adding that the brand's affordability remained appealing despite the controversies.

The Société des Grands Magasins (SGM), owner of the BHV Marais department store, condemned the sale of inappropriate items but commended Shein's quick response to address the situation. Karl-Stéphane Cottendin, SGM's chief operating officer, expressed pride in their partnership with Shein, viewing it as beneficial for the financially struggling department store, even as some brands have withdrawn in protest.

Established in China in 2012 and now headquartered in Singapore, Shein has experienced meteoric growth to become a global fast-fashion powerhouse. The company has faced persistent allegations regarding its supply chains, including claims of forced labor in China's Xinjiang province, where human rights organizations have documented serious abuses against Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities.

Cottendin dismissed these concerns, praising Shein for making significant improvements to its practices. "Today, it's a brand that produces under much more legitimate conditions," he stated, assuring that the entire production chain meets French and European regulations.

The fast fashion industry, characterized by rapid collection turnover and extremely low prices, has inundated European markets with low-quality products that create substantial environmental, social, and economic costs. According to the United Nations, the textile industry alone generates nearly 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions and contributes significantly to water depletion.

France is now implementing measures to regulate companies like Shein, Temu, and AliExpress. A proposed law aims to combat fast fashion through consumer awareness campaigns, advertising restrictions, taxes on imported small parcels, and stricter waste management requirements. The French Senate has already approved this proposal, and discussions with the European Commission are underway to finalize the legislation.

Thibaut Ledunois, director of entrepreneurship and innovation at the French federation of women's ready-to-wear, described the opening as "a black day for our industry," criticizing Shein for "developing a beautiful showcase in our country, justifying all the bad, and sad and horrible business that they develop all around the world."