Following a scandal over the sale of sex dolls resembling children, the EU Commission has formally initiated proceedings against the Chinese online retailer Shein. The European authorities suspect the company of not taking adequate measures to prevent the distribution of illegal products on its platform, thereby neglecting consumer protection standards. This initiative marks a significant step in holding online marketplaces accountable for the types of products sold to consumers.

In recent months, Shein has faced substantial criticism across Europe for various dubious products made available to its customers. Apart from child-like sex dolls, the online retailer was also found to list controlled weapons and medications, raising further concerns about consumer safety and regulatory compliance. In response to the backlash, Shein had removed these controversial items from its offerings. However, the scrutiny from the EU indicates ongoing concerns about the retailer's practices and the adequacy of its product safety measures.

The implications of this investigation could be far-reaching for Shein and its operations in Europe. If the EU Commission finds sufficient grounds, this could lead to stricter regulations regarding the sales of certain products online, influencing how e-commerce platforms manage and monitor their inventory. It underscores the need for stronger consumer protection mechanisms in the rapidly evolving landscape of online retail, particularly concerning sensitive categories like child safety and illegal goods.