French Lawmakers Approve Charges on Shein and Temu for Environmental Impact

French lawmakers have unanimously approved a new bill designed to penalise 'ultra-fast fashion' retailers, including Chinese-owned giants Shein and Temu. The legislation introduces environmental surcharges on low-cost, high-volume garments, with potential fees escalating to €10 per item or 50% of its sale price by 2030, whichever is lower. The immediate target is a €5 charge per item, beginning in 2025.

The measure, which still requires Senate approval, seeks to address the substantial environmental damage attributed to the rapid production and disposal cycles characteristic of these business models. France's Environment Minister, Christophe Béchu, highlighted the significant ecological cost, noting that such practices contribute to pollution and excessive resource consumption. The government plans to redirect revenue generated from these fees into subsidies for sustainable clothing producers.

This legislative push follows a period of growing scrutiny over the environmental and labour practices of ultra-fast fashion companies. Critics point to the vast quantities of clothing produced and quickly discarded, often comprising synthetic materials with lengthy decomposition periods. France's move represents a concerted effort to curb consumption patterns driven by exceptionally low prices and constant new arrivals, aiming instead to foster a more circular and responsible textile industry within Europe.