France Appeals to Restrict Shein Marketplace Over Alleged Illicit Sales

The French government has appealed a court decision in an effort to partially restrict the operations of Shein in France, targeting only the platform’s third-party seller marketplace rather than seeking a total suspension. The move follows a December ruling by the Paris Judicial Court, which rejected a full-site ban as “disproportionate” but acknowledged “serious harm to public order” linked to past listings of illegal products, including child-like sex dolls, Category A weapons, and prohibited medicines. The appeal will now be reviewed by the Paris Court of Appeal, with a decision expected on March 19.

In its latest filing, the state has asked judges to restore Shein’s operational model from early November to late December 2025, when sales were limited strictly to Shein-branded clothing and excluded third-party sellers. Authorities also want the court to impose the measure for three months under supervision of digital regulator ARCOM and to require stronger control systems to prevent the reappearance of illicit goods. As a fallback, the government has proposed “freezing” the marketplace to block new sellers from joining if a suspension is not granted.

Shein disputes the claims, arguing that the products in question were swiftly removed and that no illegal items have been identified since the marketplace’s gradual reopening. Company lawyers say the state has provided “no proof of illicit activity” and described the government’s position as outdated. The case unfolds amid broader political pressure, with Trade Minister Serge Papin publicly advocating tougher action against ultra-fast fashion platforms. Parallel legislative efforts are also underway to tighten import controls and impose new parcel taxes as France seeks stronger oversight of cross-border e-commerce.

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