The European Commission has opened a formal investigation into Shein under the Digital Services Act (DSA). Photograph: EPAThe EU has opened a formal investigation into China-founded fast-fashion retailer Shein for breaching the bloc’s rules on digital platforms, including the sale of illegal products such as childlike sex dolls. The move comes amid intensified application of the EU’s landmark digital rules, particularly focusing on US and Chinese platforms. Henna Virkkunen, the bloc’s executive vice-president, said illegal products were prohibited in the EU “whether they are on a store shelf or on an online marketplace”. UK ministers have been trying to convince Shein to choose the London Stock Exchange for its listing.

Source: The Irish Times February 17, 2026 16:14 UTC