High Court Of Justice To Take Up Shein-Temu Copyright Infringement Case In 2026

High Court Of Justice To Take Up Shein-Temu Copyright Infringement Case In 2026

The two entities are embroiled in litigations even in the United States

Fast-fashion giants Shein and Temu are bracing up for a legal battle in the High Court of Justice in London in 2026. Embroiled in multiple lawsuits, the companies accused each other of copyright infringement and unfair competition.

While Shein alleged that Temu used copyrighted images, Temu claimed Shein’s strong-armed suppliers into exclusive deals.

Shein sued Temu in Britain last year, accusing Whaleco UK Limited, the parent company of Temu’s PDD Holdings of breaching the copyright of photos of certain products available on the Temu platform.

However, early this year, Temu counter-claimed, accusing Shein of breaking British competition laws by tying the suppliers of fast-fashion products to exclusive agreements - a claim it valued at 4.2 million pounds ($5.5 million). But Shein denied the accusation.

Temu's lawyers submitted the documents for a preliminary hearing that Shein was "flooding Temu with unwarranted notices of copyright infringement, disrupting the sale of products."

The London lawsuit is one aspect of a global legal battle between the two rivals. In December last, Temu sued Shein in the US, with the latter pleading before the court in August against Temu.

The companies have rapidly expanded in international markets with low-cost clothing, accessories and gadgets, though they have come under increased scrutiny.

Shein was quizzed over its treatment of workers and environmental record, particularly ahead of a potential London listing. It had earlier stated respecting human rights and having a zero-tolerance policy for forced labor.

Meanwhile, Temu is facing an investigation from the European Commission whether it breached the rules on sale of illegal products. It intends to cooperate with the investigating agencies.