On Tuesday 17 February, the European Commission opened formal proceedings against the Chinese platform Shein, accused of violating the Digital Services Act (DSA) in multiple respects.
The platform has been at the centre of controversy since 1 November 2025, when the French authorities reported the sale of “child-like sex dolls” on the platform (see EUROPE 13747/2). Although Shein quickly withdrew the offending items and suspended the sellers’ accounts, the case did not end there.
On 26 February, the Commission sent Shein a request for information to explain these illegal products, the third since the DSA was introduced (see EUROPE 13760/16).
In addition to the sale of these dolls and other prohibited products, the European Commission says it is targeting the platform’s “addictive” design and the lack of transparency in its product recommendation algorithm.
Widely known for offering rock-bottom prices and massive discounts, Shein is being targeted for its various systems designed to ‘retain’ consumers on its platform, such as giving points or rewards based on engagement.
The Commission also believes that Shein has failed to properly analyse and mitigate the risks associated with its platform.
In a letter sent at the beginning of November, several French ministers urged the Commission to “conduct investigations without delay to shed full light on the malfunctions that led to the marketing of illegal items”. The Commission says it is in contact with the French authorities, but is not focusing solely on this case.
In a statement to AFP, Shein said it had strengthened its tools for detecting illegal products and had introduced additional measures concerning products banned for minors, including an age verification system.
“We share the Commission’s goal of ensuring that consumers in the EU can shop online with peace of mind, and we will continue working closely with the Commission”, added the company spokesperson.
Shein now joins compatriots AliExpress and Temu among the platforms subject to formal DSA proceedings. It should be noted, however, that the decision to open proceedings does not prejudge the outcome, as Shein could avoid a formal investigation if it provides sufficient guarantees to address the Commission’s concerns. (Original version in French by Isalia Stieffatre)