In 2023, German consumers purchased an estimated 1bn clothing and shoe items from fast fashion platforms like Shein and Temu, according to the German Trade Association for Textile Retailers (BTE). 

A press release from BTE says that while Germany’s own production of clothing and footwear dropped during the year, purchases remained at roughly the same level — indicating the shortfall was made up by purchases from abroad, most likely platforms like Shein and Temu. 

Data from the trade body shows a sharp decline in Germany’s domestic supply of clothing and shoes, with imports minus exports dropping drastically. In 2023, the official domestic supply was 3.5bn clothing items and 266mn pairs of shoes, compared to 4.6bn clothing items and 413mn pairs of shoes in 2022 — a fall of 22.4%, in just one year.

At the same time, consumer purchase patterns reported by Consumer Panel Services GfK indicate only a slight decrease in the number of items bought. This suggests that direct imports by consumers from Asia are filling the gap left by declining domestic supply.

BTE attributes this trend to the rapid expansion of platforms like Shein and Temu, which reportedly ship around 400,000 packages to Germany daily. These unchecked imports often bypass EU regulations, posing potential health risks to consumers.

In response, BTE and the German Retail Association (HDE) are advocating for stronger controls on imports from non-EU countries. They aim to ensure consumer safety and restore fair competition for all market participants within the EU.

Everything I wore on Day 38 of the 90 days of Shein challenge:

SHEIN LUNE Eyelet Embroidery Knot Front Tee, white, £2.82

Women’s Solid Color Basic Daily Leggings, £5.99

2024 New Style College Wind Black & White Outdoor Sports Shoes for Women, £7.26

Allover Leaf Graphic Drawstring Backpack, £2.34

DAZY Women’s Floral Print Sleeveless Round Neck Sleep Dress, £7.49

3pack Lace Trim No Show Brief, pink

Lace Flower Pattern Thin Underwear Set, bra