Shein Faces Stricter Rules as Very Large Online Platform in EU: Safeguarding Consumers’ Interests

The Chinese online retailer Shein, which is renowned for offering affordable fashion items and attracting millions of European consumers to its platform, will face stricter rules in the EU. According to the EU Commission, Shein has been officially classified as a very large online platform under the Digital Services Act, making it subject to more stringent requirements. As a result of this classification, Shein will have to implement extensive measures to safeguard consumers’ interests.

One of these measures is the need to combat counterfeit products and violations of intellectual property rights. Additionally, Shein will be required to submit annual risk assessment reports that focus on the potential adverse effects on the health and security of consumers, particularly minors’ physical and mental well-being. These measures must be put in place by August 31st.

Shein is one of 23 major online services affected by the DSA’s regulations, which initially targeted 19 large online platforms such as Amazon, Zalando, Google Maps, Facebook, TikTok, among others. Platforms like Pornhub, Stripchat and XVideos were added in December. These platforms are required to comply with the stricter regulations outlined in the Digital Services Act.

The EU Commission will closely monitor these platforms to ensure compliance with new rules and protect consumers’ interests. By implementing these regulations, they aim to create a safer and more secure online environment for European consumers participating in e-commerce activities.