Online fashion giant Shein is reportedly reconsidering its plans for a London IPO, with a delay now likely following changes to US tariff regulations introduced by President Trump.
Originally, Shein had suggested to investors that it could go public as soon as Easter, but according to The Financial Times, the company is now expected to push the listing to the second half of the year.
This shift follows the announcement of US tariffs on Chinese goods by President Trump, along with the end of a ‘de minimis’ duty exemption, which could impact Shein’s ability to maintain the low prices it’s known for.
To counter the effects of the tariffs, Shein is ramping up production capabilities in Vietnam and temporarily improving terms with Chinese suppliers, offering a 30% price increase and larger guaranteed orders as it moves some production out of China.
Although a Shein IPO could potentially achieve a massive valuation, it’s now expected to be closer to £40bn rather than the £50bn previously speculated.
The company has also faced scrutiny over its ties to China, particularly regarding allegations of using cotton from Xinjiang, a region where concerns have been raised about forced labor involving the Uyghur minority.
