Shein Implements Global Ban on Sex Dolls After Childlike Appearance Allegations
Online retailer Shein has implemented a global ban on the sale of all sex dolls across its platform. This decision follows a report to French authorities by the Directorate General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF) regarding the alleged sale of sex dolls with a "childlike appearance." Shein has since removed related products, banned associated sellers, and stated it is collaborating with local and international authorities on ongoing investigations.
This decision follows a report to French authorities by the Directorate General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF) regarding the alleged sale of sex dolls with a "childlike appearance."
French Regulatory Action Against Shein
The Directorate General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF), France's consumer watchdog, reported Shein to French authorities. The report concerned the alleged sale of "sex dolls with a childlike appearance" on Shein's website.
The DGCCRF stated that the online description and categorization of these dolls made it "difficult to doubt the child pornography nature of the content."
Shein's Response and Platform Changes
Upon becoming aware of the issues, Shein confirmed the immediate delisting of the products in question. The company subsequently announced a global ban on the sale of all sex dolls, regardless of their appearance, across its entire site.
Shein stated it had permanently banned all seller accounts linked to "illegal or non-compliant sex-doll products" and removed every listing and image related to sex dolls from its platform. As a precautionary measure, the company also temporarily removed its adult products category. Shein is conducting a comprehensive review, investigating how the listings circumvented its screening measures, and has strengthened its keyword blacklist to prevent sellers from attempting to bypass product listing restrictions.
Shein's executive chairman, Donald Tang, stated that the problematic listings originated from third-party sellers on the marketplace. He affirmed the company's commitment to tracing the source to take "swift, decisive action" against those responsible.
"The fight against child exploitation is non-negotiable for Shein."
Broader Industry and International Actions
Beyond Shein, other platforms and entities have also faced scrutiny. AliExpress has encountered concerns regarding the sale of sex dolls exhibiting childlike characteristics, leading French authorities to initiate an investigation into the company. In November, Reuters reported that AliExpress banned a seller of sex dolls. AliExpress had previously indicated that it had "repeatedly denied ever selling sex toys on any platform" prior to implementing this action.
Separately, a factory located in China has ceased production of customizable sex dolls following an investigation initiated by local authorities. Chinese state-owned news outlet The Paper reported that local officials are prioritizing this issue.
Internationally, Sweden has indicated its intention to take action against online retailers involved in the sale of these types of dolls.
Swedish Social Services Minister Camilla Waltersson Gronvall stated that e-commerce companies are expected to assume responsibility and take all necessary steps to end the marketing of sexual dolls that resemble children, adding that the government would consider legislative measures if adequate progress is not observed.
Collaboration with Authorities
Shein reported it is collaborating with local and international authorities in investigations targeting both the buyers and sellers of childlike sex dolls.