This is a rare consensus in a divided National Assembly. Thursday March 14, deputies from all political stripes voted unanimously for a bill aimed at limiting the consumption of fast fashion in France, notably embodied by the Chinese group Shein.
Also called “fast fashion”, this sector is characterized by clothing at knockdown prices, often made in Asian countries and whose models are constantly renewed. This industry is criticized by elected officials for its ecological impact and its unethical manufacturing conditions. A market notably embodied in France by the Chinese company Shein.
Supported by the Horizons group, this bill supported by the government was adopted at first reading. If adopted by the Senate, this text would make France “the first country in the world to legislate to limit the excesses of ultra-fast fashion”, greeted the Minister of Ecological Transition, Christophe Béchu in the Chamber. .
Advertising ban
This text provides for two main measures. First, the strengthening of the “bonus-malus” system existing in the textile sector. It would thus force fast fashion companies to integrate “the environmental costs” of their production into the sales price. Conversely, a “bonus” would reduce this price for the most eco-responsible companies.
The amount of the penalty remains to be fixed by decree, but it could gradually reach up to 10 euros per product, in 2030, with a ceiling of 50% of the sales price. An amendment provided for levels to reach these 10 euros, in particular a first at 5 euros in 2025.
Another key measure: based on the definition of companies forming part of fast fashion, set by this text, the companies concerned and customary of aggressive marketing would be prohibited from advertising. Although they voted for the bill, elected Republicans criticized this measure, believing that it would harm the entire textile market.
During the examination of the text, rebellious elected officials, environmentalists and socialists failed to integrate into the bill minimum penalties and import quotas for fast fashion companies.