The European Commission has issued a detailed opinion on France’s proposed anti–fast-fashion law, effectively putting the brakes on the text for now. In a detailed opinion which has not yet been published the Commission made the following remarks:

• Extension of review period: France must wait an additional three months before it can adopt the bill.

• Core criticisms:
  
  • The Commission questioned the law’s plan to classify certain brands as “ultra-fast fashion” using a sustainability scoring system, calling for clearer definitions, criteria, and methodology.
  • Brussels also objected to France’s proposed bonus-malus system, which would penalize less sustainable brands by tying it to France’s new mandatory environmental labeling scheme. The Commission insists such labeling should remain optional.
• Impact: These objections could force France to significantly water down the bill in order to secure EU approval. French officials have said they will consult with the Commission and the Danish EU Council presidency to clarify next steps.

FESI will continue following this topic with interest and inform members.