The Take Why France is ready to pull the plug on Shein
14 snips
Nov 12, 2025 In this discussion, Claire Roussel, a Paris-based fashion journalist, delves into France's complex relationship with Shein following its controversial Paris opening. She highlights the country's swift reaction, including seized products and the backlash against Shein's fast fashion model. Claire explains why France's response differs from giants like Zara and H&M, driven by economic pressures and new legislation. She also explores the reality of Shein's popularity in France and suggests systemic solutions to counter ultra-fast fashion.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
France Moves Quickly After Dangerous Listings
- France threatened to ban Shein after finding weapons and childlike sex dolls on its marketplace, then seized 200,000 packages to inspect them.
- Shein retracted the items and banned third-party sellers on its French site while France kept close surveillance.
Ultra-Fast Production Upsets The Market
- Shein is called an 'ultra fast fashion' brand because it produces many more items much faster than other fast-fashion labels.
- That speed and rock-bottom pricing threaten existing brands and the broader fashion ecosystem.
Shein Is A Lightning Rod, Not The Only Problem
- Critics point to Shein's labor and environmental harms, but luxury and other fast-fashion brands share problematic practices.
- Attacking Shein can serve as a distraction from systemic industry-wide issues.