Online retail giant Shein says it has banned the sale of all sex dolls on its platform around the world, following public outrage over products with a childlike appearance. The French consumer watchdog raised alarms over the descriptions used for these dolls, which were criticized for their suggestive nature.
The company confirmed on Monday that it has shuttered all seller accounts linked to illegal or non-compliant sex-doll products and is implementing stricter regulations across its platform. In a precautionary measure, Shein also announced the temporary removal of its adult products category.
Every listing and image associated with sex dolls was purged from Shein, which is now carrying out a thorough review of its offerings and plans to impose tighter controls on its sellers. Shein further stated that they have augmented their keyword blacklist to prevent circumvention of restrictions by sellers in the future.
Donald Tang, Shein's executive chairman, asserted: The fight against child exploitation is non-negotiable for Shein. These were marketplace listings from third-party sellers - but I take this personally. We are tracing the source and will take swift, decisive action against those responsible.
This reaction comes in light of initial concerns voiced by France’s Directorate General for Competition, Consumer Affairs, and Fraud Control, which prompted Shein to remove the listings as soon as they became aware of the issue and begin an internal investigation.
French Finance Minister urged Shein to cease selling such products or face a ban from operating in the country, especially as the company prepares to launch its first permanent store in Paris. Meanwhile, protests emerged outside the BHV department store in Paris, signalling significant public discontent with the retailer.
Shein has faced scrutiny in the past concerning its environmental practices and the working conditions related to the manufacturing of its products.
