Shein Advances with Confidential IPO in Hong Kong, Sources Say

Shein, a fast-fashion retailer, has filed a confidential IPO application in Hong Kong, marking a step towards becoming a publicly traded company. The company had initially planned to list in London but changed course due to regulatory delays in China. Shein's valuation has declined due to increased competition and uncertainty over tariffs. The IPO, if approved, would represent a victory for Hong Kong's financial center, which has seen its best year in stock sales since 2021.

Fast-fashion retailer Shein has taken a significant step towards becoming a publicly traded company by filing a confidential Initial Public Offering (IPO) application in Hong Kong. The company had initially planned to list in London but faced regulatory delays from Chinese authorities, prompting a shift in strategy.

The move comes as Shein continues to grapple with political and regulatory challenges in both the US and the UK. In the US, the company has faced growing scrutiny over its labor practices, data handling, and ties to China's Xinjiang region [2]. Meanwhile, in the UK, the Financial Conduct Authority approved a draft prospectus, but the China Securities Regulatory Commission raised objections, mainly around risks related to the company's Chinese operations [2].

Shein's decision to file for a Hong Kong IPO is seen as a more realistic path, with Chinese regulators encouraging domestic firms to list closer to home. If approved by both the China Securities Regulatory Commission and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, it could pave the way for a future secondary listing in London [1].

The IPO, if successful, would represent a victory for Hong Kong's financial center, which has seen its best year in stock sales since 2021. However, Shein's valuation has declined due to increased competition and uncertainty over tariffs [3]. The company's recent struggles have raised questions about its ability to maintain its rapid growth and navigate the complex regulatory landscape.

References:
[1] https://brandequity.economictimes.indiatimes.com/amp/news/business-of-brands/shein-files-for-hong-kong-ipo-to-save-london-listing-ft-reports/122336500
[2] https://www.business-standard.com/world-news/shein-hong-kong-ipo-us-uk-listing-delays-125070800496_1.html
[3] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-11/shein-is-said-to-have-filed-confidentially-for-hong-kong-ipo