The Chinese online fashion retailer Shein is now aiming for a listing on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) due to increasing obstacles for an IPO in the US. Insiders report that the company, known for its inexpensive and rapidly changing clothing, plans to inform the Chinese authorities of this step within the current month and to file the corresponding applications in London. The decision follows concerns about Shein's business practices, including allegations of the use of forced labor and the circumvention of import duties by direct shipping of goods from China.

Shein, founded in China and having moved its headquarters to Singapore, had originally filed a confidential application for an IPO in the US at the end of 2023. However, the company is subject to international criticism, among other things for its production conditions.

The move to London could represent a significant enrichment for the LSE, as the financial center has recently been struggling with a series of canceled IPOs. With a valuation of over 66 billion dollars, as stated by insiders, Shein's stock market debut would represent a significant new addition to the British market.

So far, Shein has not commented on the reports, and the LSE has also not issued a statement. Similarly, the Chinese Securities Regulatory Commission CSRC was not available for comment. The potential IPO in London highlights the company's ongoing efforts to establish itself on international markets despite global controversies over its business practices.