EU must move quickly to investigate Shein, Andrews says

Fianna Fáil Barry Andrews MEP has welcomed the European Commission’s decision to open an investigation today against the Chinese retailer Shein, which has its European HQ in Dublin:

“This investigation is an important EU action in ensuring that European consumers are protected online, and that we stem the flood of ultra-cheap fast fashion, and often dangerous products, from China undercutting Irish and European retailers.

“The investigation empowers the EU to take interim measures against Shein, and the Commission should not hesitate to do so.

Andrews said “for many years now, there have been growing concerns about Shein’s business model, notably its online practices, its environmental impact and the treatment of its workforce. It is high time that an in-depth and forensic investigation of Shein is carried out.”

“Last year’s scandal around the sale of child-like sex dolls exposed the enormous problem of unregulated online retail platforms like Shein. The EU is now acting to ensure that this does not happen again.

 “It is also important to note Ireland’s key position in this investigation. As Shein’s European headquarters are in Dublin, Coimisiún na Meán will play a central role as the national Digital Services Coordinator,” he said.