France Refers Shein to Prosecutors Amid Threat of Market Ban Over Child-like Sex Dolls
French authorities refer Shein to prosecutors over child-like sex dolls sales, with a market ban threat amid public backlash.
- • French consumer watchdog DGCCRF referred Shein to Paris prosecutors over child-like sex dolls.
- • Economy Minister Roland Lescure warned Shein could be banned from France if illegal products resurface.
- • Shein removed the dolls promptly and is taking the issue seriously, per company spokesperson.
- • Shein classified as a very large online platform under the EU Digital Services Act since April 2024.
- • Over 100,000 people signed an online petition opposing Shein's first physical store opening in Paris.
Key details
French authorities have escalated legal action against fast-fashion giant Shein following the discovery of child-like sex dolls on its platform. The French consumer watchdog, DGCCRF, has referred Shein to the Paris prosecutor's office, citing concerns that the dolls' classification on the website amounted to child pornography. This development coincides with France's economy minister, Roland Lescure, warning that Shein could be banned from the French market if such illegal products reappear. Lescure underlined French law permits the rapid takedown of illegal content within 24 hours, with possible website blocking for non-compliance.
Shein had already removed the controversial products following the DGCCRF referral and confirmed taking the issue seriously, as stated by Shein spokesperson Quentin Ruffat. The case is additionally under review by ARCOM, the body enforcing the EU Digital Services Act (DSA)—under which Shein has been classified as a very large online platform since April 2024. The European Commission is monitoring the situation closely through communication with French authorities.
Further intensifying public scrutiny, Shein is set to open its first permanent physical store in Paris’s BHV Marais department store on November 5, despite an online petition opposing the opening, which has gathered over 100,000 signatures. The petition reflects broader societal concerns about Shein’s practices and the appropriateness of allowing such a retailer to expand in France amid ongoing regulatory challenges.
This referral to prosecutors and strong ministerial warnings mark a significant development in France's efforts to regulate online content and protect consumers, signaling potential serious consequences for Shein if illegal activities persist.