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Irish regulator opens inquiry into Shein over data transfers to China
The probe will examine whether Shein Ireland met GDPR rules on international transfers, transparency and data processing after a complaint filed in January 2025.
The Irish Data Protection Commission opened an inquiry on Tuesday into Chinese-founded retailer Shein Ireland over suspected illegal exports of personal data to China, also examining compliance with General Data Protection Regulation transparency rules.
Following a complaint lodged by European privacy advocacy group Noyb with Italian authorities in January 2025, data transferred outside the EEA must be afforded protection equivalent to standards within the bloc under GDPR.
DPC Deputy Commissioner Graham Doyle said the inquiry is an 'important strategic priority' and the regulator intends to cooperate closely with European Supervisory Authorities during the investigation.
Shein stated it is fully committed to GDPR compliance, asserting: 'Ensuring the security of our customers' personal data is a top priority for our business.'
Previous regulatory action against social media platform TikTok saw The DPC sanction the company for allowing employees in China to remotely access Europeans' personal data, though Ireland recently ruled TikTok can continue transfers pending its appeal.