France Moves to Suspend Shein Website as it Opens First Store in Paris
French authorities have begun steps to suspend online retail giant Shein’s platform in the country, following an investigation into the sale of childlike sex dolls on its site. The announcement came just over an hour after Shein opened its first-ever physical store inside the BHV Marais department store in Paris, an event marked by long queues and loud protests from activists chanting “shame”.
The Ministry of Economy said the suspension will remain in effect until Shein can prove that all listed products comply with French law. The investigation, led by Paris prosecutors, also involves three other e-commerce platforms: Temu, AliExpress, and Wish.
The case originated from reports by France’s anti-fraud watchdog over the weekend. In response, Shein said it has temporarily removed listings from third-party sellers and is tightening marketplace controls to ensure compliance.
“This suspension allows us to strengthen accountability and ensure every product meets legal requirements,” said Quentin Ruffat, Shein’s public affairs head in France.
Store Opening Sparks Backlash
The decision by BHV to host Shein has caused internal friction, with some fashion brands announcing plans to withdraw from the store. French designer Agnès B said she will close her BHV concession in January, criticizing Shein’s fast-fashion model for its environmental and labor impacts.
Inside the store on Monday, protests continued, and one demonstrator released a foul-smelling substance during the opening.
BHV operator Frédéric Merlin admitted he had considered cancelling the partnership but said Shein’s recent commitments convinced him to continue. He insisted the items sold in-store do not involve exploitation.
Wider Investigations Underway
Prosecutors said the platforms are being examined for allowing violent, pornographic, or degrading content accessible to minors, with Shein and AliExpress specifically being investigated over the dissemination of child-pornography-related material.
Shein, originally founded in China and now headquartered in Singapore, says it has banned all sex dolls globally and permanently removed accounts linked to illegal sales.
The retailer plans to open stores in seven additional French cities, but Galeries Lafayette – which manages some of the host retail locations – has withdrawn its branding from those outlets in response to the controversy.
The investigation is ongoing and is being handled by France’s Office for the Protection of Minors.
