Shein hires foul-mouthed ex-EU budget chief
- Gunther Oettinger, former EU budget commissioner, has been hired by Shein to assist with EU policies.
- Oettinger faced criticism in 2016 for making offensive remarks about Chinese businessmen and later apologized.
- Shein's upcoming £50 billion stock market float is under scrutiny due to concerns over labor practices and sustainability.
Shein, a Chinese fast fashion company now based in Singapore, has appointed Gunther Oettinger, a former EU budget commissioner, as a consultant to navigate European Union policies. Oettinger has a controversial history, having faced backlash in 2016 for derogatory remarks about Chinese businessmen, including the use of the term 'slit eyes'. He later apologized for his comments, acknowledging the hurt they caused. As Shein prepares for a potential £50 billion stock market float, scrutiny over its supply chains has intensified, particularly regarding labor practices and sustainability. The EU is tightening regulations on fast fashion, citing the industry's role in environmental degradation and promoting disposable clothing. Despite Shein's claims of rigorous supplier checks, an audit recently revealed instances of child labor, leading to the temporary suspension of the involved suppliers. Prominent figures in the retail industry have called for a halt to Shein's flotation, highlighting the growing concerns over ethical practices in the fast fashion sector.