Shein Faces Potential Three-Month suspension as French Lawmakers demand Appearance
PARIS – Fast-fashion giant Shein is facing increasing pressure from French authorities, including a potential three-month suspension of its website, as it repeatedly postpones a summons to appear before the National Assembly.The company has twice requested a “calendar adjustment” to scheduled appearances on November 26 and december 2, citing ongoing legal proceedings initiated by the government.
The situation highlights growing concerns over Shein’s business practices and transparency. The Sustainable Growth Commission initially summoned Shein, and despite the company’s stated “desire to participate in the work” of the commission, it insists any contribution must align with the outcome of current judicial reviews. This standoff occurs as the French state seeks a court order to temporarily halt Shein’s operations in France, a move that could significantly disrupt the shopping habits of French consumers and set a precedent for regulating ultra-fast fashion.
According to Sandrine Le Feur,deputies respect ongoing investigations and the separation of powers,emphasizing that legal proceedings are “absolutely not an excuse not to come and present themselves to the committee.”
On Friday, the State will request the Paris judicial court to suspend the Shein site for three months, with any reopening contingent on conditions and oversight by Arcom, France’s digital regulator. However, the Paris prosecutor’s office has indicated that a three-month blocking request may be considered disproportionate, referencing case law from the European Court of Human Rights. Shein released a statement acknowledging the referral and “reaffirming its desire to participate,” while maintaining its position that contributions must be ”in compliance with ongoing legal procedures.”