China has threatened France with retaliatory measures over pressure on Shein and Temu.
08.09.2026 1997

China has threatened France with retaliatory measures over pressure on Shein and Temu.

China is demanding that France stop implementing a recently passed law targeting ultra-fast fashion companies such as Shein and Temu.

Beijing's comments came just days after France began enforcing its anti-fast fashion law on September 1, 2026, which provides for fines ranging from 25 cents to 12 euros (over $13) per item. By 2030, this range will increase to 2,20 euros (over $2) to 20 euros (over $23) per item.

Huang Ling, a spokeswoman for China's Ministry of Commerce, said at a press conference on Thursday that the law not only harms the interests of Chinese businesses but also harms the interests of French consumers.

"China urges France to immediately end its anti-fast fashion law," she said.

She called the law a discriminatory measure under the guise of environmental protection and sustainable development and said China suspects it violates World Trade Organization anti-discrimination rules.

"If France insists on its position, China will take the necessary measures to protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies. France will bear full responsibility for any consequences," she said.

A law passed in France last July distinguishes between fast fashion and ultra-fast fashion, the latter defined by very large volumes of clothing, shoes and textiles that are so cheap that they are expensive to repair.

Meanwhile, European fast-fashion companies such as Zara and H&M are exempt from the law, prompting criticism from environmental groups who point out that fast-fashion companies also have their own sustainability issues.

Chinese e-commerce platforms are already feeling the pressure in the European Union: last July, AliExpress was fined €550 million (over $627 million)—the largest fine imposed to date by the European Commission under the Digital Services Act—for failing to prevent the sale of counterfeit goods on its website. Following this, China lashed out at the EU, promising to take "decisive steps" to protect the legitimate interests of Chinese companies.

China is demanding that France stop implementing a recently passed law targeting ultra-fast fashion companies such as Shein and…
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