Chinese Factory Ceases Operations Amid Childlike Sex Doll Controversy

A manufacturing facility in China has come under scrutiny from local officials following allegations of producing sex dolls that resemble children. Authorities have mandated an immediate stop to all production at the site.

These customizable dolls were reportedly available for purchase on prominent e-commerce platforms and social media channels. The Paper, a state-affiliated news outlet in China, noted that local officials are treating the matter with utmost seriousness.

In the previous month, Shein, a global online retailer that originated in China and is now based in Singapore, prohibited the sale of all sex dolls internationally after a significant public backlash over the availability of dolls with juvenile features.

At that time, the company announced that it had enhanced its keyword blacklist to further inhibit sellers from attempting to bypass restrictions on product listings.

Other online marketplaces have also faced criticism related to the sale of dolls that exhibit childlike characteristics. For instance, AliExpress has been investigated by French regulators regarding this issue.

Reports from November indicated that the China-based entity had taken action against a seller for repeatedly denying the sale of sex toys on its platform.

In a similar vein, Sweden has pledged to take measures against online vendors offering these types of dolls. Social Services Minister Camilla Waltersson Gronvall stated, “I now start from the principle that electronic commerce companies assume their responsibilities and do everything possible to end the marketing of sexual dolls that resemble children.”

She further warned that if there is insufficient progress in addressing this issue, the government would not hesitate to consider alternative legislative measures.

Advancements in artificial intelligence have simplified the customization of sex dolls purchased online, with some even possessing conversational abilities.

The Paper reported that the factory now facing investigation is one of several located in Guangdong province that were engaged in producing customizable dolls with characteristics linked to child pornography.

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