Crowds of shoppers - and protesters - turned out Wednesday for the opening of fast-fashion giant Shein's first permanent store in Paris, inside one of the city's most iconic department stores.

A small group of demonstrators waving anti-Shein signs briefly disrupted the opening ceremony before they were escorted out by security.

Shortly afterward, France’s government said it is suspending access to Shein's online platform until the company proves that its content conforms with French law.

The decision came after controversy over sex dolls with childlike features were found listed for sale on Shein’s website.

The ministry did not say whether this could impact the physical store or elaborate on the reasons for its decision.

Frédéric Merlin, president of Société des Grands Magasins, which owns BHV, praised the government's move, adding that Shein had already chosen to suspend its marketplace.

The launch of Shein, which has long drawn criticism over its poor green credentials and labor practices, in the heart of France’s fashion capital has triggered a backlash from environmental groups, Paris City Hall, and France’s ready-to-wear industry.

Shein said earlier that it has banned all sex-doll products, and temporarily removed its adult products category for review. The company has also launched an investigation to determine how the listings bypassed its screening measures.

The BHV has been going through financial struggles in recent years and the SGM believes the arrival of Shein will help revive business — even as some brands have chosen to leave the store in protest.

AP video shot by: Nicolas Garriga