Eight European countries, led by France, have urged the European Commission and EU member states to intensify their “collective mobilisation” against what they describe as “systemic risks” posed by e-commerce platforms such as SHEIN. The call was made in a joint letter sent to Brussels on Monday by Austria, Belgium, Spain, France, Greece, Italy, Hungary and Poland.
The signatories stated that the Commission should “mobilise forcefully and relentlessly” in response to what they view as unfair competition from online retailers based outside the EU.
The Commission has already issued requests for information to SHEIN — the first step in a process that could lead to a formal investigation, a move strongly encouraged by Serge Papin, France’s Trade Minister and the initiator of the letter.
Papin said at Monday’s Competitiveness Council meeting in Brussels that such an investigation “must be complemented by provisional measures” to address risks that SHEIN and other platforms “fail to control”. He also called for “additional sanctions” in ongoing proceedings involving Temu and AliExpress.
France previously attempted to suspend SHEIN through an administrative procedure in early November, after authorities identified the sale of childlike sex dolls on the platform. That request has since been referred to the courts, with a ruling expected on 19th December. Anticipating a potential legal setback, France is now increasing pressure on the Commission, arguing that EU-level action is necessary as systemic platform risks fall under the Commission’s jurisdiction.
To safeguard consumers and businesses from issues such as illicit products and unfair commercial practices, the signatory countries are urging stricter enforcement of existing regulations, including the Digital Services Act. They are calling for coordinated efforts to strengthen checks by customs and consumer protection agencies.
The letter also presses the Commission to take “an active role” by reviewing current rules and, if required, tightening obligations for online platforms.
Additionally, the eight countries have proposed introducing a European tax on low-value parcels — a measure that France has already been preparing at the national level. In mid-November, EU finance ministers approved ending the customs duty exemption for small imported parcels, a change that could take effect as early as the first quarter of 2026.
