Shein sues Temu for industrial‑scale copyright infringement in UK court

Online fast‑fashion platforms Shein and Temu have clashed in a two‑week trial at London's High Court. Shein alleges that Temu used roughly 2,300 photographs taken by Shein employees to advertise copies of its own‑brand clothing, constituting "industrial‑scale" copyright infringement. Shein's lawyer, Benet Brandreth, said Temu was trying to "piggy‑back" on Shein's market presence.

Temu, owned by PDD Holdings, denies the claims and argues the lawsuit is a tactic to suppress competition. It has filed a counter‑claim seeking damages after being forced to remove thousands of product listings following an injunction. Temu also accuses Shein of breaching competition law by imposing exclusive agreements on fast‑fashion suppliers, a matter slated for trial next year.

The dispute is part of a broader global legal battle between the two Chinese‑based rivals, who have sued each other in the United States as well. The case could influence how e‑commerce platforms manage third‑party content and enforce intellectual‑property rights, especially as regulatory scrutiny of low‑cost online retail intensifies. Recent policy changes, such as the removal of a U.S. customs exemption on low‑value parcels and an upcoming EU move, may also affect the companies' growth.

The trial began on May 11 and is expected to last two weeks, drawing attention from industry observers and policymakers alike.