Chinese e-commerce giant Shein Group continues to operate in France under close government supervision after shutting out third-party vendors in response to an injunction over sales of childlike sex dolls and weapons.
The company avoided suspension in the country by halting marketplace sales after a government injunction demanded that it remove all weapons from its platform within 48 hours or risk punitive measures.
France seeks Shein suspension on sex doll, weapon complaints
Finance Minister Roland Lescure said the government will remain “merciless” in ensuring Shein abides by local laws, in an interview with Franceinfo on Saturday.
“Shein will remain under close surveillance,” the government said in a statement late on Friday. “Authorities will actively monitor developments on the platform, particularly the maintenance of all precautionary measures taken by Shein. The government will take all necessary steps to prevent the sale of any illicit products.”
Legal proceedings remain ongoing, the government said.
Shein, in a separate statement, said it “remains committed to dialog with French authorities to address their concerns.”
The Chinese fast-fashion giant’s expansion in France has been mired in controversy, as the sale of the dolls sparked outrage among consumer groups and lawmakers. Meanwhile, its new store — a global debut — opened in central Paris this week to protests over its aggressive push into the heart of the world’s fashion capital.
