Chinese fast fashion giant Shein is set to launch “Shein Exchange,” a second-hand clothing resale platform, in France, followed by the UK and Germany. This new platform will allow users to resell clothing purchased exclusively from Shein, leveraging their purchase histories for quick and easy transactions. According to Shein’s executive chairman, Donald Tang, this initiative promotes a circular economy and simplifies the resale process.

Already popular in the United States with over 4 million users, Shein Exchange distinguishes itself from competitors like Vinted by focusing solely on Shein products. Founded in 2012 in China and now based in Singapore, Shein has rapidly grown in the global fast fashion market, offering frequently updated collections at low prices.

However, Shein has faced criticism for its environmental impact, particularly due to the carbon footprint of shipping products from China to Europe. In response, Tang mentioned efforts to increase local production in Turkey to better serve the European market and reduce air freight use.

In France, the National Assembly passed a bill in March aimed at reducing the attractiveness of fast fashion to limit environmental damage and address concerns over toxic chemicals in production. The Senate has yet to vote on this bill.

Tang also hinted at a potential IPO, with considerations for listing in either London or New York, though no final decision has been made. In November, the Wall Street Journal reported Shein’s confidential application for a US IPO.