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Ireland Opens Privacy Probe Into Shein Over Data Transfers to China

By  |  May 5, 2026

Ireland’s Data Protection Commission has launched an investigation into Chinese online fashion retailer Shein over the transfer of European user data to China, according to Reuters. The regulator, which serves as Shein’s lead privacy authority in the European Union, announced the inquiry on Tuesday as part of its oversight responsibilities under EU data protection laws.

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    The investigation will focus on whether Shein’s Europe, Middle East and Africa headquarters in Dublin has met its obligations under the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation in relation to the transfer of personal data outside the bloc, according to Reuters. The Irish regulator said it would assess the extent of the company’s compliance with the rules governing such international data transfers.

    Read more: European Commission Launches DSA Investigation into Shein Over Illegal Products

    Ireland’s Data Protection Commission plays a central role in enforcing privacy rules across the EU because many major multinational technology companies have established their regional headquarters in the country. Per Reuters, the regulator has issued more than 4 billion euros in fines for GDPR violations since 2020.

    The Shein inquiry comes as the Irish watchdog remains active in other high-profile cross-border data cases. According to Reuters, an Irish court is expected to rule soon on TikTok’s appeal against a previous DPC decision concerning the transfer of user data to China. The order requiring TikTok to suspend those transfers has been temporarily paused while the appeal process continues.

    Source: Reuters