INTERNATIONAL NEWS — Online retail giant Shein has suspended all sales of sex dolls on its global marketplace after a French consumer watchdog raised concerns that certain third-party listings appeared to feature products with “childlike” characteristics.

According to initial reports from French regulators, the flagged listings included descriptions and visual presentations that could be interpreted as inappropriate or potentially illegal. The matter has been referred to judicial authorities for further review.

In response, Shein stated that it has removed all sex-doll-related listings as a precaution and has temporarily taken down its entire adult-product category while an internal review is underway. The company also emphasized that the items in question came from third-party sellers, not from Shein’s own product lines.(Illustrative image – Sales prohibited / Provided by Canva)

Shein noted that it is strengthening supervision procedures, including stricter seller verification and expanded keyword-filtering measures designed to prevent prohibited items from appearing on the platform.

Executive chairman Donald Tang reiterated the company’s zero-tolerance stance, stating that fighting exploitation remains a core priority. He added that Shein is currently tracing the origins of the reported listings and will take action if any violations are confirmed.

Shein said it will continue cooperating with regulatory bodies as investigations proceed, and that consumer protection and platform integrity remain top commitments.