US President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs on steel and aluminum have triggered an international boycott of American products. Consumers in Canada and Europe are rejecting US-made goods in protest against what they perceive as unfair trade practices. Industries such as liquor, automobiles, and tourism are already experiencing the impact.
Rising Anti-US Sentiment
Social media campaigns against American goods are gaining traction, with Facebook groups in Denmark, Sweden, and France attracting tens of thousands of members. Google Trends data shows a surge in searches for “Boycott USA.” In Canada, businesses and provincial governments are actively prioritizing local products, removing US imports from retail shelves and contracts.
Country-Specific Boycotts
- Canada: The Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) removed US-made spirits like Jack Daniel’s. The Ontario government also canceled a $100 million contract with Elon Musk’s Starlink. Tourism from Canada to the US has dropped by 23%.
- Denmark & Sweden: Boycott movements with over 70,000 members are pushing consumers to buy European alternatives.
- France: The campaign “BOYCOTT USA: Buy French and European!” is promoting local products over US imports.
Impact on Tesla and Other US Brands
Tesla sales in Europe declined 45% in January, with analysts attributing the drop to Musk’s close association with Trump. European retailers are now marking locally made products to help consumers avoid US goods.
Cultural & Economic Repercussions
Artists and businesses are also distancing themselves from the US. A renowned German violinist canceled his US tour in protest, while a Norwegian fuel supplier halted shipments to US Navy ships. The boycott could force American brands to rebrand or relocate manufacturing to counter declining sales.
What’s Next?
As Trump amplifies nationalist rhetoric before the 2024 election, experts predict deepening resistance to US trade policies. If the boycott continues, American exports and tourism could suffer long-term setbacks, further straining global trade relations.
