Overview
- In a letter to Parliament’s trade committee chair, the Economic Freedom Fighters asked for a review of the Singapore meeting, full disclosure of attendees and discussions, and proof of coordination with the trade and small‑business ministries.
- The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture confirmed the session occurred during South Africa Focus Week and described it as exploratory talks on sponsorships, skills development, and market access for emerging designers and athletes.
- Minister Gayton McKenzie defended the engagement, arguing SHEIN will continue operating in South Africa and that collaboration could secure greater participation for local fashion stakeholders.
- Prominent designer David Tlale criticized the move, saying the minister does not grasp the clothing and textile value chain and warning that engagement with SHEIN harms local producers.
- A Proudly South Africa–commissioned study estimated Shein and Temu generated about R7.3 billion in 2024 CTFL sales and an opportunity cost of roughly R960 million to local manufacturing, reinforcing calls for audits and stronger localisation measures.