A growing movement to boycott American goods and services is spreading across the globe, gaining traction in countries such as Sweden, Norway, Canada, and beyond. The initiative, fueled by consumer anger and ethically-minded companies, is a response to the policies of the Trump administration, including its trade war and cultural stances. Notably, a Facebook group in Sweden, boasting 40,000 members, has emerged as a hub for the boycott. This group not only calls for a boycott of US companies—including Facebook itself—but also provides alternatives to American consumer products.
In Canada, there has been a noticeable impact on travel patterns. The country has experienced a 23% decline in road trips to the United States compared to February 2024. This change reflects Canadian consumers' reaction to recent trade tariffs and inflammatory rhetoric from former President Trump, who suggested Canada should become America's 51st state.
The boycott movement extends beyond countries directly targeted by Trump's trade war. It is visible in nations like Sweden and Norway, where significant business entities have taken action. Norway's largest oil bunkering operation, Haltbakk, announced a boycott of supplying fuel to US navy ships, citing dissatisfaction with America's recent political maneuvers.
“We have today been witnesses to the biggest shit show ever presented ‘live on TV’ by the current American president and his vice-president,” – Haltbakk
Denmark is also joining the boycott campaign. The country's leading grocery company, Salling Group, will tag European-made goods with a black star, enabling consumers to choose them over US products. However, Salling Group will continue to stock American products.
“We are making it easier to shop for European brands,” – Anders Hagh
Tesla has not escaped the effects of this movement. The company's sales in Europe have decreased significantly due to Elon Musk's association with the Trump administration. This decline has contributed to a drop in Tesla's share price, highlighting the financial implications of the boycott.
The scope of the boycott extends beyond consumer goods. It encompasses cultural and other forms of boycotts and disinvestment. Christian Tetzlaff, a renowned German classical violinist, is one individual who has canceled a summer tour of the US due to his discontent with the current American political climate.
“I feel utter anger. I cannot go on with this feeling inside. I cannot just go and play a tour of beautiful concerts,” – Christian Tetzlaff
The movement is spreading rapidly from Scandinavia to Canada and the UK, indicating widespread disapproval of US policies under the Trump administration. In addition to businesses and consumers, individuals are taking a stand by opting out of American engagements.
“There seems to be a quietness or denial about what’s going on,” – Christian Tetzlaff
At the core of this movement is a reaction against America's perceived shift away from its traditional role as a global leader.
“Nobody – nobody – would have thought that western businesses or consumers would use such tools against America.” – Elisabeth Braw
This sentiment was echoed in recent geopolitical tensions involving the United States.
“The United States is, after all, the leader of the free world. Or was: its vote with Russia, against Ukraine…suggests to many that America is no longer an instinctive member of what we term the west.” – Unattributed
Companies and consumers alike are exploring ways to replace American goods with alternatives from other nations.
“I’ll replace as many American goods as I can and if many do so, it will clearly affect the supply in stores,” – Unattributed