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Fast-fashion giant Shein is facing potential legal action in France after the country's consumer fraud watchdog reported the company to prosecutors. The agency, the Directorate General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF), took action after identifying products for sale on Shein's platform described as "childlike sex dolls."
The items in question were reportedly marketed as realistic mannequin heads for practicing makeup or as stands for wigs. Following an investigation prompted by an alert from an association fighting child sexual abuse, the DGCCRF concluded that the products could contravene French law. As a result, the watchdog has referred the case to the Paris public prosecutor's office to determine whether a formal criminal investigation should be opened.
In response to the accusations, Shein stated that it immediately removed the flagged products from its marketplace. The Singapore-based company, which operates a platform that includes third-party sellers, explained its policy prohibits the sale of items that are "overtly sexual in their presentation" or depict minors in a suggestive manner. In a statement reported by several media outlets, Shein emphasized its zero-tolerance policy and pledged to strengthen oversight of its marketplace to prevent similar incidents.
This controversy comes at a sensitive time for Shein, as the company is reportedly preparing for a major initial public offering (IPO) in London. The incident adds to the growing scrutiny the e-commerce giant faces over its business practices, which have previously included concerns about child labor within its supply chain and the environmental impact of its fast-fashion model. The French prosecutor will now decide whether to launch a full investigation, which could lead to legal and significant reputational consequences for the retailer.
