France Threatens Shein with Ban Over Sale of Childlike Sex Dolls Amid Paris Store Controversy

The French government has issued a serious threat to ban the Chinese fast-fashion retailer Shein following the discovery that the company was selling sex dolls with childlike appearances on its website. The Directorate General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control uncovered advertisements depicting life-size dolls resembling young girls, leading to concerns that these products violate laws against child pornography. Economy Minister Roland Lescure strongly condemned the sale, stating, "This has crossed a line," and confirmed an official investigation is underway.

Shein has removed the controversial dolls and promised corrective measures. However, the crisis worsens as the company prepares to open its first physical store at BHV Marais in Paris. The opening has sparked protests from employees, NGOs like Mouv’Enfants, and the public, with an online petition gathering over 100,000 signatures against Shein's presence.

Parliamentary authorities are also focusing scrutiny on Shein, planning to summon company officials for questioning regarding these incidents. French law allows authorities to block access to websites distributing illegal content and to impose severe penalties — including up to seven years in prison and heavy fines — for distributing pedopornographic material. Frederic Merlin, president of Société des Grands Magasins (BHV Marais's parent company), condemned the sale as "indecent" and confirmed no Shein products will be sold in the store amid the ongoing backlash.

The government’s firm stance signals zero tolerance for any repeat violations, with Economy Minister Lescure stating that repeated offenses may result in fully prohibiting Shein’s operation in France.