- By Shivangi Sharma
- Wed, 05 Nov 2025 10:51 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
France has announced the suspension of access to Shein’s online platform following the discovery of sex dolls with childlike features listed on the fast-fashion retailer’s website. The decision has sparked uproar across the country, intensifying scrutiny over Shein’s marketplace policies and content moderation practices.
The French economy ministry revealed on Wednesday that the suspension was ordered by the prime minister, stating that proceedings will continue “as long as necessary” for Shein to prove its online marketplace complies fully with national laws and regulations. The controversy centres on severe legal and ethical concerns, particularly France’s strict laws against the sexualisation of minors.
Authorities emphasised that no digital platform is exempt from compliance, and the suspension serves as a warning to all e-commerce players operating in the European market.
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Store Opening Overshadowed By Protests
The government’s move came barely an hour after Shein unveiled its first physical store in the world, located on the sixth floor of the iconic BHV department store in Paris. The launch quickly turned chaotic as crowds lined up to enter, while enraged protesters gathered outside, chanting “Shame!”
Inside the store, activists continued demonstrating, with one individual setting off a foul-smelling spray in protest. Rival clothing brands housed in BHV expressed outrage over the collaboration, with several announcing plans to leave the department store in defiance.
Shein Responds With Marketplace Restrictions
In response to the backlash, Shein said it had temporarily suspended listings from independent third-party vendors on its marketplace while tightening operational standards. Quentin Ruffat, the company’s head of public affairs in France, stated that the suspension would help “strengthen accountability and ensure every product meets our standards and legal obligations.”
The company insists that the controversial products originated from external vendors, not Shein’s direct catalogue. The suspension marks a significant moment in Europe’s push to regulate online marketplaces. As the investigation continues, Shein’s Paris debut, meant to be a milestone, has instead become a global cautionary tale about ethics, compliance, and corporate accountability.