France has begun legal steps to suspend Shein’s online platform after authorities found childlike sex dolls listed on the site.
The move comes as prosecutors investigate Shein, AliExpress, Temu, and Wish over content that could be seen by minors, including violent or pornographic material.
This growing scrutiny has fueled talk of a possible Shein and AliExpress ban if violations continue.
The economy ministry said the suspension process will last “as long as necessary” until Shein proves all listings follow French law.
Ministers also warned they could shut down Shein’s entire site in France. Not just its third party marketplace, if banned products keep appearing.
Shein says it is cooperating with prosecutors
It has banned all sex dolls worldwide, sanctioned offending sellers, and temporarily paused its marketplace in France to tighten controls.
The company’s French public affairs lead said the pause is meant to “strengthen accountability.”
AliExpress said the flagged listings break its rules and were removed, sellers who try to bypass policies will be penalized.
The action coincided with Shein opening its first physical store on the sixth floor of Paris’s BHV department store, sparking protests and criticism from designers and rival brands.
Some concessions plan to leave BHV in response. Inside the store, demonstrations continued, and one protester set off a foul smelling spray.
Lawmakers also pointed to other alleged illegal items on Shein, including brass knuckles and an axe, which are banned in France.
Commerce Minister Serge Papin told parliament, “Enough is enough,” before ordering the suspension procedure.
The Paris prosecutor’s office said cases involving Shein and AliExpress include the suspected dissemination of content related to children that is pornographic in nature.
The matter has been referred to the Office des Mineurs, which handles the protection of minors.
France requested the European Commission review Shein’s practices, the Commission has contacted the company.
France has taken similar action before, suspending Wish in 2021 over dangerous goods and restoring it after changes.
A parliamentary hearing with Shein is set for November 18, with an initial government review due within 48 hours.
