Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The European Commission announced that it had requested Chinese fast-fashion retailer Shein to submit internal documents and more precise information on risks connected to the presence of illegal goods and contents in its marketplace.
The Commission has also asked Shein to provide detailed data on measures assumed to mitigate risks connecting to consumer protection, public health and users’ well-being.
In a statement, the Commission said,
“Shein must provide the necessary information by 27 February 2025. Based on the assessment of the replies, the Commission will determine the next steps. This could entail the formal opening of proceedings pursuant to Article 66 of the DSA.”
The Commission, in a statement, further said that the request for information links to the continued DSA investigation against Shein.
“It is without prejudice to the ongoing investigation by the Consumer Protection Cooperation (CPC) Network and coordinated by the Commission regarding Shein’s compliance with its obligations under Union consumer law, that is complementary to the Commission’s investigation under the DSA.”
How is the EU ensuring Shein’s compliance with consumer law?
Similarly, the European Commission earlier issued a request for information to Shein on June 28, 2024, as part of its efforts to ensure compliance with the Digital Services Act. This was following the determination of Shein as VLOP, which imposes a stricter supervisory approach and obligations on Shein under the DSA.
It looks for detailed information from Shein about its measures in compliance with several DSA requirements, which include handling illegal products through the ‘Notice and Action mechanism,’ prevention of misleading practices such as ‘dark patterns,’ protection of minors, ensuring transparency in recommender systems, and maintaining traceability of traders.
