Global online retail giant Shein has announced a worldwide ban on the sale of sex dolls, particularly those with ‘a childlike appearance,’ following accusations of hosting such products on its platform. The decision comes after France’s Directorate General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control flagged concerns over the weekend, describing the listings as having ‘little doubt as to the child pornography nature of the content.’ Shein responded swiftly, permanently banning all seller accounts linked to such products and temporarily removing its adult products category as a precaution. The company has also initiated a thorough review of its platform, vowing to implement stricter controls on sellers and enhance its keyword blacklist to prevent circumvention of restrictions. Executive Chairman Donald Tang emphasized Shein’s unwavering stance against child exploitation, stating, ‘The fight against child exploitation is non-negotiable for Shein. We are tracing the source and will take swift, decisive action against those responsible.’ The controversy erupted just days before Shein’s planned opening of its first permanent outlet in Paris, where protesters gathered outside the BHV department store. France’s finance minister threatened to ban the Singapore-based retailer from the country if it continued to sell the offending products. This incident adds to Shein’s existing scrutiny over its fast-fashion environmental impact and labor practices.