Alexander von Preen, president of the German Retail Association (HDE), praised the European Commission’s proceedings against the fast‑fashion brand Shein as a “encouraging sign” and urged Ursula von der Leyen’s authority to take decisive action.
He told the German media network Redaktionsnetzwerk that if the existing problems are not eliminated convincingly and consistently, shutting down a platform should not remain taboo and must be seriously considered.
“Years of helplessness and inaction by politics and authorities have eroded trust in the rule of law among many traders and manufacturers in Germany and the EU” he added. “We need visible and clear signals. Anyone selling goods in this country must strictly adhere to local environmental and consumer‑protection rules, as well as tax regulations”.
Von Preen criticized that policymakers have long watched as merchants and platforms from East Asia repeatedly flouted European rules.
“This unfair competition destroys domestic trading and manufacturing firms that abide by the law and undergo strict scrutiny. Violations must have tangible consequences” he demanded of the EU Commission. “The era of words is over; it’s now a matter of action”.