EU opens formal probe into Shein over sale of childlike sex dolls and weapons

The European Commission has launched a formal investigation into Shein over suspected breaches of EU law, citing the sale of childlike sex dolls and weapons and other possibly non-compliant products. The inquiry will also examine the platform’s design features, including rewards and recommender systems, for possible risks to users and DSA transparency rules.

The European Commission has opened a formal investigation into the online retailer Shein over multiple suspected breaches of EU law. Officials cited sales of alleged illegal products, including childlike sex dolls and weapons, and other items reported as non-compliant. The probe will also examine the platform’s design features such as bonus points, gamification and rewards, and how its recommender systems operate. This inquiry follows prior national actions, including a French probe and a Paris court injunction, and is separate from those national cases. Key facts: - The European Commission launched the formal investigation after requesting information from Shein in 2024. - The probe cites concerns about the sale of illegal products, including childlike sex dolls and weapons, and reports of other non-compliant items. - The investigation will review the platform’s “addictive design,” such as bonus points programmes, gamification and rewards, for risks to users’ mental well‑being. - EU officials will examine Shein’s recommender systems for possible opacity and non-compliance with the Digital Services Act, which requires an easily available non-profiling alternative. - The French authorities have pursued related legal action focused on product legality; a Paris court issued an injunction requiring age verification and removal of certain sexual products. - The EU said Shein is cooperating and that a ban or sales block in Europe would be a last-resort measure if laws are not respected. Summary: The EU’s inquiry is intended to assess whether Shein’s platform and practices comply with bloc rules on product legality, user safety, and transparency. Undetermined at this time.