France has initiated proceedings to suspend the online fast-fashion retailer Shein after authorities discovered childlike sex dolls and weapons being sold on its marketplace. The move coincides with the opening of the company’s first physical store inside a Paris department store.
The discovery, made by France’s consumer watchdog on Saturday, has intensified public outrage and increased pressure on the Chinese company. The finance ministry announced that, under instructions from the Prime Minister, the government is initiating proceedings to suspend Shein “for as long as necessary” until the platform proves full compliance with French laws and regulations.
Commerce and Small Business Minister Serge Papin ordered the suspension, declaring in parliament, “Enough is enough with the pedopornographic dolls, and now the weapons,” after lawmaker Antoine Vermorel-Marques revealed listings for banned items, including brass knuckles and an axe.
Shein’s Response and Scope of Suspension
Shein said it had sanctioned the sellers involved and implemented a global ban on the sale of sex dolls. The company also voluntarily decided to temporarily suspend its French marketplace to “review and strengthen” third-party seller oversight. Shein’s website hosts both its own clothing lines and products from independent vendors.
The finance ministry warned that if prohibited items continue to appear, the suspension could be extended to the entire Shein website in France, not just its marketplace. The government said an “initial review” of the situation would take place within 48 hours.
Digital Minister Anne Le Henanff has asked the European Commission to launch an investigation into Shein’s practices. A Commission spokesperson confirmed that contact had been made with the company but said no formal investigation has yet been opened. French lawmakers have also summoned Shein to appear before parliament on Nov. 18.
Controversy and Retail Impact
The opening of Shein’s concession on the sixth floor of the BHV department store had already sparked controversy among politicians and local retailers, who argue that the company’s business model gives it an unfair advantage.
Société des Grands Magasins (SGM), which owns BHV, invited Shein to open the concession to attract younger shoppers. SGM Chairman Frédéric Merlin welcomed Shein’s decision to suspend its marketplace and expressed confidence in the quality of products sold in-store. Additional Shein concessions are planned in five other regional department stores owned by SGM in the coming weeks.
Outside the BHV store, demonstrators — including members of the child protection group Mouv’Enfants — protested against the opening. Meanwhile, the Paris prosecutor’s office has launched a separate investigation into Shein and AliExpress over the alleged dissemination of pornographic images or representations of minors.