Fashion retailer not losing any Shein over claims by Attorney-General, vows to fight
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton Sues Shein Over Alleged Toxic Products, Data Privacy Issues. But the retailer denies claims, saying it will contest the allegations
Global fast‑fashion and lifestyle retailer Shein has denied claims made by the State of Texas in a lawsuit filed in the district court in Collin County on 20 February.
Known for ultra‑low prices, rapid product turnover, and a highly data‑driven supply‑chain model, Shein has grown into one of the world’s largest online fashion platforms, serving more than 160 countries and reshaping how inexpensive apparel is produced and distributed.
Attorney General Ken Paxton has sued Shein US Services LLC and its affiliates (“Shein”) for unlawfully selling toxic products to consumers and unlawfully exposing sensitive personal data to the Chinese Communist Party (“CCP”).
What Shein has said
A Shein spokesperson issued a formal statement after the lawsuit was filed, saying the company:
“strongly disagrees with the allegations in the complaint”
“takes its responsibilities to customers seriously”
“is committed to providing a safe, secure, and reliable shopping experience”
“will prove its position in court.”
Shein generated more than $30 billion in global revenue in 2023. The company operates primarily online, offering a vast range of clothing, toys, accessories, and home decor products. The company promotes itself as a responsible and innovative retailer, but its reliance on unsafe product materials and deceptive marketing practices is a cornerstone of the corporation. Shein’s rapid growth into an e-commerce giant is built on a foundation of omission and deception, and its billions in revenue have come at the expense of Texans’ health and privacy.
Personal data of consumers can be seen by the Chinese Communist Party, says court papers
Shein’s platform is not just a store but a data siphon that leads directly to the Chinese government. Since the company operates at least in part in China, sensitive personal information of its consumers can at any time be commandeered by the CCP.
“Not only is Shein harming consumers with toxic synthetic materials, but it’s also exposing Americans’ data to Communist China. This must come to an end. Access to affordable, in-demand clothing, children’s toys, and products should not have to come at the cost of the health and security of Texans,” said Attorney General Paxton.
The lawsuit seeks relief under the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act (“DTPA”) and monetary relief for the state, including the recovery of up to $10,000 for each violation of the DTPA, with as much as a $250,000 per violation of the DTPA when the illegal action targeted consumers who were 65 years of age or older.
This lawsuit follows an investigation into Shein that Attorney General Paxton announced in December 2025. This action is the fifth one announced by Attorney General Paxton this week that is part of a coordinated effort to hold China accountable under Texas law. The OAG has filed lawsuits against TP Link, Anzu Robotics, Lorex, and Temu.
To read the lawsuit, click here.