Macron defends former minister now lobbying for Shein
While Macron highlighted a "45% increase over 15 years" in clothing consumption in France and called on the French to adopt "responsible behavior" because "we all have a role to play" in the fight against climate change, Clément pressed him about "the responsibility of politicians" and, more specifically, about Castaner.
The former minister (2017-2020), 59, was recruited in 2024 by Shein as a strategic adviser, among other high-profile figures, to lead lobbying efforts on behalf of the brand in France at a time when Parliament is debating a bill aimed at curbing the rise of fast fashion, which threatens Shein's interests. "He is now a free man," Macron said in his defense, adding that he had not discussed the situation with Castaner. "It's his life, not mine," Macron shrugged off. "Just because he's at Shein doesn't mean that will change anything about the matter."
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