Chinese fast-fashion giant Shein has been suspended in France after authorities found that the company was allegedly selling sex dolls resembling children. The move has sparked outrage among French regulators and consumers, raising questions about corporate ethics, online marketplace oversight, and the broader implications for China-based companies operating internationally.
During a recent press briefing, a Reuters correspondent asked the Chinese Foreign Ministry whether this incident reflects negatively on China, given that Shein is one of its most prominent global e-commerce brands.
Responding to the question, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said, “For anything specific, I’d refer you to the competent authorities. More broadly, the Chinese government asks companies to do business in accordance with laws and regulations and fulfill their corporate responsibilities.”
Mao further emphasized that China expects companies, both domestic and international, to operate within legal and ethical frameworks, maintaining a commitment to responsible business practices. She added, “We also hope relevant parties will abide by the principles of market economy and provide a fair, transparent, and non-discriminatory business environment for companies from all countries.”
The suspension comes amid growing scrutiny of Shein’s business operations in Europe and the United States, where regulators have raised concerns about labor practices, product safety, and intellectual property violations. This latest controversy adds to the list of challenges facing the company as it seeks to expand its presence in Western markets.
French authorities have not yet specified the duration of the suspension or the precise measures Shein must take to regain compliance. However, the case underscores the increasing pressure on e-commerce platforms to monitor and regulate the types of products sold through their websites, especially those that may violate moral or legal standards.
While Beijing has distanced itself from the controversy, Mao Ning’s remarks highlight China’s broader diplomatic stance — urging for fair treatment of its companies abroad while reinforcing the need for corporate accountability.
As global regulators tighten oversight on online retail platforms, Shein’s case serves as a cautionary example of how ethical missteps can quickly escalate into international reputational risks.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on official statements and publicly available information from press briefings and news reports. The views expressed do not represent those of the author or the publication.
