Chinese fast fashion app Shein has returned to the Indian market after a five-year ban, partnering with Reliance Retail for its relaunch, the BBC reported.
A Reliance Retail representative, speaking anonymously, revealed that the company has secured a long-term licensing agreement to feature locally manufactured and sourced products on its platform. The company has yet to issue an official statement.
Shein’s app launched in India on Friday night, attracting over 10,000 downloads so far. Currently, deliveries are limited to Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, but a notification on the app states that nationwide expansion is coming soon.
Shein’s return to the Indian market comes under strict conditions, including local data storage, according to Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal. The agreement grants Reliance Retail full control over operations and data, with Shein acting solely as a technology partner. All customer and app data will be stored in India, with no access rights for Shein, Goyal confirmed.
Shein will use India as a supply hub for its global operations, supporting Reliance Retail in expanding its network and training local garment manufacturers. The initiative aims to boost India’s textile and garment exports, a Reliance Retail official said.
In 2020, India banned Shein along with dozens of other Chinese apps, including TikTok, citing data security concerns. The move followed heightened tensions with China after border clashes in a disputed Himalayan region.
Before the ban, Shein was a popular choice in India, offering trendy designs at affordable prices. Its exit initially created a market gap, later filled by local brands.
Shein’s return through its deal with Reliance Retail marks a rare exception to India’s ban on over 200 Chinese apps in the past five years. At the time, officials cited complaints of apps ‘stealing and surreptitiously transmitting users’ data without authorisation.’
Over the past decade, Shein has transformed from a niche brand into one of the world’s largest fast fashion retailers. It now ships to 150 countries worldwide.
