Algerian authorities have initiated a recall of women’s clothing from the markets, which bear a Chinese online retail brand linked to health hazards. The Directorate of Commerce in Oran, in coordination with security agencies, has started comprehensive withdrawal operations targeting all products from this brand found in marketing, distribution, and sale that contain toxic and illegal substances.
These harmful substances can cause serious diseases if inhaled, directly touched, or if they come into contact with skin.
In an initial tally, security forces confiscated 139 pieces of various sizes and styles of dresses made with fibers containing a high percentage of harmful chemicals, sold at significantly reduced prices in a shopping center.
According to Haj Ali Abdel Hakim, the general coordinator of consumer protection in Oran, tests conducted on samples from this company’s clothing confirmed the validity of warnings issued against purchasing these items due to numerous health risks posed to users and those exposed to the toxic substances used in their manufacturing.
Abdel Hakim clarified that the issue concerns dangerous and illegal chemical compounds known as “formaldehyde,” which are originally used in embalming, glue production, and other non-living applications, and are carcinogenic when inhaled or when they come into contact with the skin.