<span>STORY: France launched an investigation on Wednesday after childlike sex dolls and weapons were found to be sold on the site of online fast fashion retailer Shein.</span><span>The government said the suspension would continue until the e-commerce giant proves its platform complies with French law.</span><span>Shein said it has sanctioned sellers of sex dolls and imposed a worldwide ban on the sale of such products on its site.</span><span>The company also decided to temporarily suspend its market in France to “review and strengthen” the way third-party sellers operate.</span><span>MPs also pointed out that Shein’s website lists weapons such as brass knuckles and axes, which are banned in France.</span><span>The controversy comes as Shein’s new store in the 19th-century BHV department store sparks turmoil that goes beyond recent concerns. </span><span>Politicians and retailers say the online giant has an unfair advantage and is eroding French high streets.</span><span>But on Wednesday, many French shoppers said banning Shein from the country was a bad idea: </span><span>“I think it’s going to be a blow to a lot of people financially, and they actually have so many options on the platform because it’s so broad.”</span><span>Following news of the planned suspension, Frederic Merlin, chairman of SGM, which owns BHV, called on Shein’s leaders to set higher standards:</span><span>“This whole situation (childlike sex dolls being temporarily available on Shein’s online platform) is absolutely terrible, despicable. I’ve said it several times. I strongly encourage and still have discussions following this morning’s announcements about bladed weapons being sold on the platform, I strongly encourage Shein’s leaders to set rules and set them quickly… What Shein’s marketplace is doing is not right.”</span><span>The finance ministry said it would suspend not only Shein’s marketplace but also its entire website in France if banned products were offered for sale.</span><span>MPs summoned the firm to a hearing in parliament on November 18, and the company accepted the offer</span><span>The European Commission contacted Shein on Wednesday about the latest reports but did not launch a formal investigation, a spokesman said.</span>
