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Chinese authorities investigate factory over childlike sex dolls
A manufacturing facility in southern China has been ordered to cease operations after local officials launched an inquiry into its production of customizable sex dolls resembling children. The move follows growing scrutiny of online retailers selling similar products.
Factory targeted in Guangdong province
State-owned news outlet The Paper reported that the factory, located in Guangdong province, was among several producing dolls with what authorities described as "childlike pornography characteristics." Officials have prioritized the case, signaling heightened regulatory action.
E-commerce platforms face global backlash
Major online marketplaces have come under fire for hosting such products. Last month, Singapore-based retailer Shein banned all sex dolls worldwide after public outrage over dolls with childlike appearances. The company said it had tightened its keyword filters to prevent sellers from bypassing restrictions.
AliExpress, another China-based platform, faced an investigation by French authorities in November. The company later removed a seller accused of listing sex dolls, despite initially denying any such sales on its platform, according to Reuters.
Governments demand action
Sweden has threatened legislative measures if online retailers fail to curb the sale of childlike sex dolls. Social Services Minister Camilla Waltersson Grönvall told AFP that companies must "assume their responsibilities" or face government intervention.
"If we see that this evolution does not happen, or is not enough, the government will not hesitate to legislate different means."
Camilla Waltersson Grönvall, Swedish Social Services Minister
Customization and AI fuel concerns
Advancements in artificial intelligence have made it easier for buyers to personalize sex dolls, with some models now capable of basic conversation. Critics argue that the technology exacerbates risks of exploitation and normalization of harmful content.
Broader crackdown on online sales
The investigation in China reflects a wider effort to regulate the sale of sex dolls with childlike features. Authorities have urged e-commerce platforms to enforce stricter content moderation, though enforcement remains inconsistent across regions.
