Paris calls for Brussels intervention against Chinese platform for selling weapons and dolls for adults

France has called on the European Union to immediately launch an investigation into the Chinese platform Shein for selling illegal goods, including sex dolls resembling children and banned weapons. Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said it was a "clear violation of European rules" and the European Commission could not hesitate any longer.

Shein has suspended the operation of its online marketplace in France and stopped selling the dolls globally. It says it is reviewing its control of third-party sellers.

In an appeal to the Union, Paris ministers Roland Lescure and Anne le Hénanff warned that similar problems could arise in other member states.

Under the Digital Services Act, Shein is one of the "very large online platforms" and could face a fine of up to six per cent of global turnover. The Commission has acknowledged receipt of the letter and is analysing the way forward.

France is also separately investigating platforms Temu, AliExpress and Wish for suspected infringements, including making pornographic content available to minors.

(reuters, max)