Shein Classified as a Very Large Online Platform Under EU’s Digital Services Act: Stricter Regulations Ahead

The European Union (EU) has classified Chinese online retailer Shein as a very large online platform under the Digital Services Act (DSA), subjecting it to stricter rules and regulations. With over 45 million monthly users in the EU, Shein has surpassed the threshold for classification as a very large online platform.

As a result of this classification, Shein will need to implement extensive measures to protect consumers, including combating counterfeit products and violations of intellectual property rights. The company will also be required to submit annual risk assessment reports, focusing on the potential adverse effects on the health and security of consumers, particularly minors’ physical and mental well-being. These measures must be in place by August 31st.

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

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