Chinese Fashion Brand Shein Relaunches in India After 5 Years, Partners with Reliance Retail
Shein’s Return to India
Chinese fast fashion brand Shein has made a comeback in India after five years. It was banned in 2020 by the Indian government due to data security concerns. Now, Shein has relaunched in partnership with Reliance Retail.
A Reliance Retail official told the BBC that the company has signed a long-term licensing agreement with Shein’s parent organization. Under this deal, products manufactured and sourced in India will be sold on the platform. However, an official announcement is yet to be made.
Strict Conditions for Shein’s Relaunch in India
Shein’s return comes with strict conditions. Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal stated in December 2024 that:
✅ All data must be stored in India
✅ Shein will have no access to this data
The Shein app was launched in India on Friday night and has already crossed 10,000+ downloads. The platform offers affordable fashion products starting at ₹199 ($2.30 or £1.90). Currently, deliveries are limited to New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, with plans for nationwide expansion soon.
Shein’s Global Expansion and Impact on India
Over the past decade, Shein has grown into one of the world’s largest fast fashion brands, shipping to 150+ countries. Before its ban, Shein was extremely popular among Indian youth due to its affordable and trendy clothing. Post-ban, several local brands filled the market gap.
With Shein India, Reliance Retail is expanding its international brand strategy. The company already sells brands like Superdry and Gap via its Ajio platform.
Reliance Retail to Control Operations
According to the Indian government, Reliance Retail will have complete control over Shein’s operations and data. Shein will function only as a technology partner.
A Reliance Retail official stated that Shein plans to use India as a global supply hub, training Indian garment manufacturers and boosting exports.
Shein’s Return: An Exception Despite Ban
India has banned over 200 Chinese apps in the last five years, including TikTok and PUBG, citing unauthorized data transmission.
However, PUBG returned as Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), and now Shein has made a comeback through its partnership with Reliance Retail.
Shein’s Global IPO Plans
Shein is planning an IPO on the London Stock Exchange in early 2025. Initially, it aimed for a US listing but had to drop the plan due to concerns from US lawmakers.
Will Shein Regain Its Popularity in India?
Shein’s return was made possible through Reliance Retail’s strong network and local supply chain. It remains to be seen whether Shein can reclaim its former popularity in the competitive Indian fashion market.
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