Dining rooms in government offices and hospitals are to be cooked with Czech sausage.

France has introduced a new regulation banning advertisements for "ultra-fast" fashion platforms, primarily affecting Chinese companies such as Shein, Temu, and AliExpress. The law aims to address the environmental impact of mass production and excessive consumerism associated with these online retailers. Unlike traditional fast fashion brands, which have been previously targeted in discussions, this legislation specifically focuses on digital giants that offer vast quantities of products at extremely low prices, leading to reduced incentives for consumers to repair or reuse items.

The French government argues that these platforms contribute significantly to textile waste and environmental degradation due to their business model, which encourages frequent purchasing and disposal of clothing. According to a document published by the Senate, over 885,000 tons of clothing, household textiles, and footwear were sold in France in 2024 alone. This surge in available products has led to a decline in foot traffic at physical stores, which play a crucial role in creating jobs and supporting local economies.

In addition to the advertising ban, the new law requires online platforms to commit to paying increasing financial contributions based on ecological standards for each product sold. These funds would support environmental protection efforts. Furthermore, the platforms must encourage customers to repair, reuse, and delay purchases, promoting sustainable consumption habits. The regulation also mandates that websites promote eco-friendly practices and raise awareness about the importance of reducing textile waste.

The move comes amid growing concerns over the environmental impact of fast fashion and the need for more sustainable consumption patterns. While the law does not explicitly target French or European brands, it clearly focuses on international e-commerce giants known for their rapid production cycles and low-cost strategies. This decision reflects broader global trends toward regulating industries perceived as harmful to the environment and public health.

Separately, the Czech Republic's government has approved recommendations aimed at incorporating locally produced food into dining services across state and public institutions. The goal is to support domestic producers while ensuring quality and variety in food supplies. By 2028, the share of locally sourced ingredients in selected organizations' meals should reach 65 percent of total expenditures.

This initiative was announced by Agriculture Minister Martin Šebestyán during a press conference following cabinet meetings. State institutions, regions, and municipalities are encouraged to prioritize regional production when purchasing food for their canteens. The rationale behind this policy includes improving food quality, reducing transportation emissions, and boosting the local economy through increased tax revenues from domestic agricultural sectors.

Agricultural associations welcome the decision, emphasizing its potential benefits for both farmers and consumers. They argue that widespread adoption of local foods can strengthen market demand for Czech produce, send a clear message to citizens about the advantages of buying local, and enhance national food security while reducing dependence on imports. However, some industry representatives express concerns about whether local suppliers can meet large-scale demands without compromising efficiency or quality.

To facilitate the transition, the Ministry of Agriculture promises to provide methodological support to all tendering bodies, helping them structure public procurement processes that align with legal requirements and focus on regional suppliers. Currently, public tenders are often guided primarily by cost considerations, favoring unfair import practices from countries with less stringent regulations than EU member states. Therefore, revising criteria for public contracts to reflect local origin is deemed essential.

Defining what constitutes a local product remains a challenge. Agricultural associations suggest that local foods should be produced within tens or hundreds of kilometers from the point of consumption. Additional indicators include transparent labeling systems like Klasa or Regional Food certifications, which help identify genuine local products. Implementing these measures could ensure consistency and clarity in identifying authentic regional offerings, thereby reinforcing trust among consumers and supporting local economies effectively.