Online retail giant Shein has taken a significant step by banning the sale of all sex dolls on its platform globally, following accusations that the company had been promoting products with a childlike appearance. The controversy intensified when the French consumer watchdog flagged concerns over the potential implications of such listings, stating they may implicitly suggest child pornography.
In a statement released on Monday, Shein announced that it had permanently severed ties with all seller accounts linked to illegal or inappropriate sex-doll products. Furthermore, the company declared it would temporarily remove its entire adult products category as a precautionary measure.
All listings and images pertaining to sex dolls have been eradicated from Shein's platform, and the company plans to undertake a comprehensive review to enforce stricter regulations on its sellers.
Shein's executive chairman, Donald Tang, emphasized the company's zero-tolerance policy towards child exploitation, stating, 'These were marketplace listings from third-party sellers - but I take this personally. We are tracing the source and will take swift, decisive action against those responsible.'
The backlash against Shein escalated when France's Directorate General for Competition, Consumer Affairs, and Fraud Control raised alarms over the dolls over the weekend. In response, the company quickly acted to remove problematic listings as it began investigating the means by which these products became available on its platform.
Moreover, France's finance minister indicated the possibility of banning Shein from the country unless it ceased the sale of these products, just days ahead of the launch of its first permanent outlet in Paris. Protests erupted outside the planned store location, demonstrating public concern over Shein's business ethics.
In addition to this recent scandal, Shein has faced ongoing scrutiny over its environmental impact and labor practices, raising questions about its overall corporate responsibility amidst its rapid growth in the fast fashion industry.
