China threatens France with retaliatory measures over 'fast fashion' bill
The Chinese government recently expressed its dissatisfaction with a French bill aimed at limiting the environmental impact of "fast fashion." This text, which was voted on by the National Assembly, notably provides for the introduction of an ecological penalty on low-priced clothing produced in large quantities by companies like Shein.
Beijing authorities believe that these new measures could harm the interests of Chinese companies present on the French market. In an official statement, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce warned that it would take "necessary measures" to protect the rights and interests of its companies if France persists on this path.
The French bill, supported by the Horizons party, seeks to reduce pollution linked to the textile industry. It plans to ban advertising for the most polluting fashion products and to impose a progressive environmental tax on each item sold, in order to offset the costs of textile waste management.
This dispute illustrates the growing tensions between European ecological concerns and international commercial interests. While France wishes to become a leader in the ecological transition within the fashion sector, it must now navigate its diplomatic relations with China, a major economic partner, with caution.
The text must still be examined by the Senate before it can be definitively adopted. The coming months will therefore be decisive in observing whether the French government maintains its firm position in the face of external pressure or if it seeks a compromise with Beijing.