France takes aim at fast-fashion giants with new pricing penalties

France will from 1 September 2026 impose a fee on ultra-fast fashion items that will eventually reach almost 20 euros per garment, as the government targets major Asian e-commerce platforms including Shein. REUTERS - Phil Noble

France will start imposing fees on ultra-fast fashion from Tuesday, with charges set to rise to almost €20 per garment as the government steps up pressure on major Asian e-commerce platforms including Shein.

The levy follows legislation passed by the French parliament earlier this year to regulate so-called "ultra-fast fashion" companies, known for selling large volumes of lower-quality clothing at rock-bottom prices.