English
PARIS — The Shein childlike sex dolls controversy has sparked outrage in France after the Chinese fast-fashion giant was caught selling illegal products online. France’s consumer watchdog, the Directorate-General for Competition, Consumer Affairs, and Fraud Control (DGCCRF), said it discovered childlike sex dolls on Shein’s website along with other pornographic items.
Watchdog Flags “Child Pornography Nature”
DGCCRF reported the finding to judicial authorities, saying the dolls’ descriptions “leave little doubt as to their child pornography nature.” The agency also criticized Shein for failing to restrict minors’ access to such explicit material, calling the lack of content filtering “deeply concerning.”
In response, Shein said it immediately removed the products once notified. The company told Reuters via email, “The products in question were immediately removed from the platform as soon as we became aware of these major shortcomings.”
Shein Responds to French Scrutiny
Shein emphasized its “zero-tolerance policy” toward any content or items that breach internal standards or local laws. The company said it is cooperating fully with French authorities to address the issue and review its content monitoring systems.
The Shein childlike sex dolls scandal comes at a sensitive time for the brand. The retailer is preparing to open its first physical store in France this week at the Bazar de l’Hôtel de Ville (BHV) in Paris.
Retail Industry Backlash
French clothing retailers have long accused Shein of undercutting domestic fashion brands with ultra-cheap prices and unsustainable business practices. The latest scandal has renewed calls for tighter regulation of online marketplaces and import controls on explicit or harmful products.
Despite the controversy, Shein plans to move forward with its expansion strategy. The company intends to open five additional outlets in partnership with Galeries Lafayette. These stores will be located in Angers, Dijon, Grenoble, Limoges, and Reims.
Observers say the scandal’s timing could harm Shein’s public image. This comes as the company tries to expand its retail presence in Europe.
