Online fast-fashion platform Shein is currently working to secure a valuation that rivals established industry leaders such as H&M and Zara’s parent company, Inditex. According to internal documents reviewed by the South China Morning Post, Shein is actively framing its business model and global reach as evidence that it should be categorized as a top-tier international fashion entity rather than a niche Chinese retailer.

The company’s strategy involves leveraging its massive global customer base to justify a premium valuation. By aligning itself with the performance metrics of Western retail giants, Shein hopes to attract investors who might otherwise view the company through the lens of its regional roots. While the company cites unnamed analysts to support this classification, the move represents a significant effort to reshape its corporate identity ahead of potential financial milestones. The documents suggest that Shein believes its operational scale and market penetration are sufficient to command a valuation on par with the most successful players in the global fashion sector.