France suspends Shein access after discovery of firearms and adult dolls on platform.
The decision came as Shein opened its first permanent store in Paris inside one of the city’s most iconic department stores
France’s government said Wednesday it has started a procedure to suspend access to Shein’s online marketplace until the company proves that its content conforms with French law, after authorities found firearms and sex dolls with childlike features listed for sale on the fast-fashion giant’s website.
The Finance Ministry said the government made the decision after officials found “large quantities” of illegal weapons, including firearms, on Shein’s popular e-commerce platform Wednesday. The ministry said if prohibited items remain, authorities may suspend the site in France.
The decision came on the same day Shein opened its first permanent store in Paris inside one of the city’s most iconic department stores.
The opening drew crowds of shoppers as well as protesters at the BHV Marais, including a small group of demonstrators waving anti-Shein signs who briefly disrupted the opening day before they were escorted out by security.
The ministry did not say whether its decision would impact the physical store. It added that a first progress report would be provided within the next 48 hours.
In response, Shein pledged to work with French authorities to “address any concerns swiftly as we have always done and we are seeking dialogue with the authorities and government bodies on this issue.”
French authorities have legal power to order online platforms to remove clearly illegal content such as child pornography within 24 hours. If they fail to comply, authorities can require internet service providers and search engines to block access and delist the site.
Access to, and orders from the French version of Shein’s website was still possible Wednesday following the government’s announcement.
Frederic Merlin, president of Societe des Grands Magasins (SGM,) which owns the BHV department store, praised the government’s move. “I am satisfied with this decision and I hope that, in the end, we will be able to stop selling illicit products on these marketplaces,” Merlin said.
