France Asks EU to Probe Shein, Act Over Sex Dolls, Weapons

Demonstrators protest the opening of Shein’s first permanent retail store in Paris, on Nov. 5.Photographer: Benjamin Girette/Bloomberg

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By William Horobin and Jenny Che

November 6, 2025 at 8:01 AM UTC

Updated on

November 6, 2025 at 8:33 AM UTC

France has asked the European Commission to investigate Shein Group and take added steps against the Chinese e-commerce giant, after the French government moved to suspend the platform over complaints about sales of childlike sex dolls and weapons.

The French government’s call for the EU to step into the feud comes after Paris initiated two potential suspension procedures against Shein. A report to the prosecutor’s office found sales of machetes and brass knuckles, amid an uproar over sex dolls offered on the platform.