Why Is France Defending Its Postal Deal with Chinese Platform Temu?

France’s commerce minister has issued a public defense of the recent logistics agreement between state-run postal giant La Poste and Chinese e-commerce platform Temu, a deal that has sparked a wave of discussion amid ongoing investigations into online marketplaces and mounting criticism from lawmakers.

Questions about compliance, industry impact, and consumer safety have intensified since news broke that Paris prosecutors are scrutinizing multiple foreign digital retailers for selling banned items and illegal goods.

The timing of La Poste’s deal with Temu, coming just weeks before the probe started, sparked fresh debate.

Ministers underscored that legal obligations and non-discriminatory service are paramount, insisting that all customers receive equal terms regardless of national origin or business reputation.

The government cited standard commercial operations as the basis for continuing collaboration.

What does the La Poste-Temu agreement involve?

Under the new agreement signed in October 2025, La Poste provides last-mile package delivery for customers buying from Temu’s platform.

This arrangement is described by the postal group as a traditional logistics services contract, with terms and conditions matching those extended to any other marketplace or retailer.

La Poste emphasizes its commitment to operational fairness and neutrality. In its public statement, La Poste clarified that refusal to serve any customer could violate statutes mandating equality and open access for postal services.

The company pointed to its ongoing partnerships with international players since Temu’s entry into the French market in 2023, while reiterating that all logistics contracts must adhere to local laws and postal standards.

Did you know?
Temu, a subsidiary of PDD Holdings, only entered France’s marketplace in 2023 yet quickly secured logistics partnerships with leading postal services.

Why did French officials defend the deal?

Commerce Minister Serge Papin, interviewed by BFM TV, stated that France cannot arbitrarily block companies from accessing public services.

Papin stressed that La Poste is expected to “do its job,” meaning treat all customers impartially except where apparent legal breaches occur.

He acknowledged the growing complexity posed by high-volume, cross-border parcels and the need for robust customs controls.

French authorities also noted that services like La Poste are critical to maintaining competitiveness in an era of global commerce.

Cancelling or withholding contracts could set a dangerous precedent and discourage foreign investment in French delivery infrastructure, potentially harming consumers.

How have lawmakers and the public reacted?

The announcement generated a sharp response among some French lawmakers, especially those concerned about local industry, environmental impact, and rising imports of low-value goods.

Critics argue the government should support domestic manufacturing and take firmer action against e-commerce sites that market controversial or banned products.

Public reaction ranged from concern about Temu’s rapid foothold in French retail to skepticism over whether La Poste’s actions could erode standards or worker protections.

Several advocacy groups demanded more stringent vetting of international clients signing delivery contracts with publicly owned firms.

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What risks have authorities identified?

Customs and border agencies flagged a surge in small parcels arriving from overseas e-commerce sites, often with goods that violate French consumer laws, child safety directives, or import regulations.

France’s investigation into Shein, a Temu competitor, has heightened scrutiny of how platforms monitor listings and comply with local standards.

Officials worry that unchecked growth in overseas deliveries could facilitate the entry of illicit items, strain enforcement capabilities, and undermine trust in national logistics networks.

Calls for more transparent tracking systems and tighter inspection procedures have intensified since these investigations began.

Will France reconsider its approach to online marketplaces?

The government indicates changes could be coming, pending results from ongoing probes and reviews of marketplace compliance.

Ministers pledged to keep a close watch and report updates on whether contractual standards are adequately enforced.

Legislation aimed at improving supply chain oversight and consumer protection is under discussion as the retail sector adapts to evolving risks.

Looking ahead, France faces mounting pressure to balance its tradition of open public services with rising demands for digital retail accountability and local industry support.

The final outcome will shape not only the country’s postal policies but also broader strategies for handling global e-commerce partnerships in an age of rapid change.