France has paused suspension proceedings against Chinese online retailer Shein after the company removed illegal products from its platforms, the country's Finance Ministry has announced. 

French authorities initiated proceedings to suspend the operations of online fast-fashion retailer after they found prohibited products, including childlike sex dolls and illegal weapons, being sold on its platform.  

The action came on the same day the fast-fashion company opened its first physical store in a Paris department store. 

In early November 2025, France’s economy minister, Roland Lescure, warned that Shein could be barred from the French market if childlike sex dolls reappear on its e-commerce platform.  

The ministry announced that it would suspend Shein’s entire website in France, not just its marketplace, if banned products persisted. 

On Friday 7 November, the French consumer watchdog confirmed that all illegal items, including medicines, had been taken down from Shein.

Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu requested a fresh assessment within one week, adding: "Shein will remain under close surveillance by state services." 

The company told Reuters: "Shein remains committed to dialogue with the French authorities in order to address the concerns raised and to present the measures we have put in place to continue improving." 

Lecornu also stated that separate judicial proceedings seeking the suspension of the platform are unaffected by the decision.

Founded in China in 2012 and now headquartered in Singapore, Shein operates its own clothing line and a marketplace for third-party sellers.