French ‘Anti‑Fast‑Fashion’ Law Defended as Non‑Discriminatory by Foreign Ministry

The law that bans ultra‑fast fashion, which took effect on Tuesday, is described as ‘not discriminatory’ and is chiefly aimed at ‘protecting the environment and consumers’, according to a source from the French Foreign Trade and Attractiveness office, part of the Foreign Ministry, who told Euronews on Thursday in response to Beijing’s accusations.

The source added that it is in everyone’s interest, including China’s, to maintain a constructive relationship with France, the European Union, and to foster a civil trade partnership.

During a press conference on Thursday, Chinese Commerce Ministry spokeswoman Huang Ling urged the suspension of the newly enacted French anti‑fast‑fashion law, which was adopted in July and became effective on Tuesday.

She accused France of exploiting environmental and sustainability criteria to create a de facto two‑tier system that could violate the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) non‑discrimination rules.

The spokeswoman warned that if France continues, China will take the necessary steps to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of its companies, and that France will bear all resulting consequences.

Denial of Discrimination

The source noted that, although there is no discrimination, China reserves the right to submit technical comments to the WTO.

She said the fact that China feels targeted has been heard and that they are ready to discuss the extent of those concerns; if China wishes to submit technical comments, it is fully entitled to do so to the WTO.

The official emphasized that Parliament is sovereign, has passed the law, and will fully respect its decision; any threat to a state’s sovereignty is considered economic retaliation, though for now it remains just a threat.

The European Commission has voiced concerns about the draft anti‑fast‑fashion law’s compatibility with EU law, especially concerning the advertising ban.

According to the source, the law remains robust. The French official said they have responded to the European Commission’s concerns and addressed questions about conformity with various directives, adding that, from their perspective, there are no outstanding issues.

China has not yet announced specific retaliatory measures, but Beijing has previously targeted French interests, such as imposing anti‑dumping duties on European brandy in 2024 after the EU imposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. French cognac producers found themselves at the centre of a customs dispute between the EU and China.

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