Commission Opens DSA Proceedings Against Shein
The European Commission has opened formal proceedings against Shein under the Digital Services Act (DSA), citing concerns related to addictive platform design, insufficient transparency of recommender systems, and the possible sale of illegal products in the EU market.
The investigation will assess whether Shein has implemented effective safeguards to prevent the sale of illegal goods, with particular attention to products that may constitute child sexual abuse material, including child‑like sex dolls. The Commission will examine Shein’s internal controls, risk assessments, and enforcement mechanisms as required for very large online platforms under the DSA.
In parallel, the Commission will evaluate the risks linked to Shein’s engagement‑driven design features, such as reward and points systems that may encourage excessive use and negatively affect users’ wellbeing and consumer protection. The probe will also review compliance with DSA obligations on recommender system transparency, including disclosure of key parameters and the availability of at least one non‑profiling‑based recommendation option.
The opening of proceedings does not predetermine the outcome. The Commission will gather evidence through information requests, monitoring, and interviews, with Ireland’s media regulator, Coimisiún na Meán, participating as the national Digital Services Coordinator. If breaches are established, Shein may face substantial fines in euro and be required to adopt corrective measures to ensure DSA compliance.
