Shein, the fast-fashion powerhouse, is under scrutiny as UK lawmakers prepare to question the company about labor practices within its supply chain. A hearing scheduled for January 7 will see

Shein and another online retailer, Temu, face the Business and Trade Committee regarding worker rights and employment conditions.

The cross-party committee, led by former Labour minister Liam Byrne, initiated an inquiry into employment rights in October. This investigation is part of a broader effort to address labor exploitation, safeguard British workers, and tackle forced labor in imported goods. The inquiry also ties into the government’s proposed employment rights bill.

Shein’s European legal head, Yinan Zhu, is set to testify, alongside Temu’s senior legal counsel and compliance manager. Both companies have faced allegations of poor labor conditions in their Chinese supply chains. Shein asserts it upholds human rights and enforces a strict no-forced-labor policy, while Temu echoes similar commitments.

Originally founded in China, Shein is now headquartered in Singapore and has rapidly expanded its presence in the U.S., Europe, and the UK. The company is reportedly preparing for a London IPO.

Other witnesses at the hearing include Margaret Beels from the Department for Business and Trade, Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner Eleanor Lyons, and even the CEO of McDonald’s UK and Ireland, who will provide additional perspectives on labor practices.

This high-profile hearing underscores the growing focus on corporate accountability and ethical supply chains. All eyes are on the proceedings to see how these companies address the mounting concerns about their labor practices. Photo by Raysonho @ Open Grid Scheduler / Scalable Grid Engine, Wikimedia commons.