Shein’s first permanent store at BHV Marais became central to the Shein France controversy in 2025.
Incident – Action Shein France controversy
In late 2025, items deemed illegal or unacceptable under French (and European) law were discovered on the “Marketplace” (where third-party sellers sell their goods) of Shein’s French website. These included items such as “child-like sex dolls” and “banned weapons.” At the same time, Shein opened its first permanent brick-and-mortar store—inside the prestigious Paris department store BHV Marais. Following these incidents, the French government resorted to emergency procedures, giving Shein 48 hours to review its platform and prove legal compliance by removing the illegal items—or face the site being shut down. Specifically, the French Ministry of Finance announced that if Shein did not remove the illegal items, it would demand the closure of the “entire website,” not just the Marketplace.
Has the demand for a “complete closure” been dropped?
Saying that the demand for a “complete closure” has been dropped is a bit complicated. The truth is: yes, the current “complete closure” or “suspension” process has been put on hold. That demand has been withdrawn—at least temporarily. But this does not mean that Shein’s activities have been declared “independent” of fairness. The government and judicial bodies have clarified that Shein is still under “close monitoring,” and if illegal or controversial items are found again, the suspension could be immediately rescinded. Furthermore, the court hearing is still pending, meaning the legal process is ongoing.
Timeline of the Shein France Controversy in 2025
Date / Time Event / Decision / Status November 4–5, 2025 Shein’s first permanent physical store opened in Paris; the same day the French government gave Shein 48 hours to rectify the illegal items found. November 5, 2025 Shein announced the closure of its marketplace. November 7, 2025 The French Ministry of Finance announced that the “complete website shutdown” process has been put on hold, as illegal items have been removed from Shein’s platform. Nov 9, 2025 The government stated that Shein will remain under “close monitoring” and further legal action will continue. December 5, 2025 The case is pending in court for a new hearing. The government again requested a three-month website suspension.
Background and Major Issues
This action isn’t just about selling illegal sex dolls or weapons, but connects several major issues:
The Digital Services Act (DSA) is a new EU regulation that establishes accountability for major online platforms. France is pressuring Shein on the grounds that it must have adequate resources and control mechanisms to prevent illicit/dangerous items. The traditional French clothing and fashion industry—which has been facing stiff competition from such “ultra-fast fashion” companies (like Shein)—has long complained that platforms like Shein are bringing cheap, quick, and mass-market fashion to the detriment of the local industry.
Current Status (December 2025) on Shein France controversy
Shein’s website has not been completely shut down. Its marketplace section has been shut down, but its main website (where Shein sells its own clothing/fashion accessories) remains operational. The French government has currently withdrawn its demand for a complete ban; but the matter is not over yet. Court hearings are ongoing, and Shein remains under government surveillance. If illegal or controversial items are again found on Shein’s servers, the government may take action again.
Its significance—why this news is trending
Accountability of online platforms: This case shows that large international e-commerce platforms cannot be considered merely “shops selling clothes”—they can be held accountable to local laws, safety standards, and regulatory institutions. Fast fashion and ethics: “Ultra-fast fashion” brands like Shein face questions not just for community or environmental (sustainability) reasons, but also for safety, illegal product sales, consumer protection, and more.
Legal and regulatory challenges: This French action is an example of how countries can use political and legal power when international platforms violate local regulations. It also shows how new laws like the DSA could have an impact in Europe. Populism and trade conflicts: This could be a welcome news for local brands and the fashion industry—as they were suffering significant losses due to competition from companies like Shein.
Conclusion—Should the “demand dropped” be trusted?
Yes, the government has temporarily withdrawn the demand to “shut down the entire website.” But to say the matter is over wouldn’t be entirely accurate. Shein is currently under observation, pending a court hearing, and if he violates the rules again, fresh action could be taken. Therefore, it’s more appropriate to say, “Shein’s closure has been postponed for the time being, but the matter hasn’t been fully resolved.”
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