Fast fashion retailer Shein disclosed in its sustainability report that it discovered two instances of child labor at its suppliers in 2022. The company suspended orders from the suppliers involved and only resumed sourcing from them after they improved their processes. Shein stated that it swiftly resolved the cases, which included terminating contracts of underage employees and arranging medical checkups and repatriation. Shein tightened its supplier policy, now ending relationships immediately for severe breaches. The report also revealed that the percentage of supplier audits finding child labor decreased over the years. Shein plans to terminate noncompliant suppliers and has increased its number of audits. The retailer also addressed its emissions, particularly from transporting products, which more than doubled in 2023. Shein aims to cut emissions by sourcing products closer to consumers and has already made progress in this area. Additionally, the company has submitted emissions reduction goals and established a sustainability committee internally.
