Shein Under Fire: Childlike Sex Dolls Spark Outrage in France
The fast-fashion giant Shein is embroiled in controversy once again, this time facing a formal investigation in France. The DGCCRF (French Fraud Prevention Authority) reported the company to the public prosecutor on November 1, 2025, over the sale of sex dolls with childlike features. Authorities view this as a serious violation of laws against child sexual content.
A New Chapter in Shein’s Controversies
This case adds fuel to the fire of existing criticisms against the Chinese-based company. Shein has already faced accusations of poor working conditions and a significant environmental impact due to its products. This investigation comes as Shein attempts to expand its presence in the European market, with the planned opening of its first physical store in Paris.
According to an official statement by the French authority, the products’ descriptions and classifications on the Shein website make it difficult to deny their nature as child pornography. French law stipulates that the publication or distribution of child sexual content online can lead to up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to 100,000 euros.
Shein Responds, Controversy Continues
Following the statement, Shein announced the withdrawal of the controversial dolls from its platform and initiated an internal investigation to determine the circumstances. A photograph published by Le Parisien showed one of the dolls, approximately 80 centimeters tall, holding a small teddy bear, giving it a childlike appearance. Alice Veyre-Doutart, an official at the DGCCRF, stated, “Imagine a child browsing the website looking for a doll and encountering these products.”
Expansion Plans Meet Resistance
These developments follow Shein’s announcement in October (past) of its intention to open its first physical store in Paris, located within the upscale BHV Marais store. This decision prompted several brands to withdraw their products in protest against the partnership with the platform.
Founded in China before relocating its headquarters to Singapore, Shein has faced repeated criticism over factory working conditions and the environmental impact of its fast-fashion model. Despite these issues, the company has experienced tremendous growth in market value, surpassing many of its traditional competitors in the global shopping world.
Legal and Regulatory Challenges
In 2025, France fined Shein three times, totaling 191 million euros, for violations related to cookies, misleading advertisements, and the failure to disclose the presence of microplastic fibers in its products. The European Commission is also conducting a separate investigation into the risks of illegal products on the platform. The European Parliament has approved legislation to reduce the environmental impact of the fast-fashion industry on the continent.
This case highlights the ongoing scrutiny Shein faces regarding its business practices and the challenges it encounters as it seeks to establish a stronger foothold in the European market. The investigation into the sale of childlike sex dolls raises serious ethical and legal questions, adding to a growing list of controversies surrounding the company.
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