In Denmark, a retired police officer named Ivan Hansen has taken a stand against policies he views as aggressive from the United States. At the supermarket, he refuses to buy any American goods, replacing his Coca-Cola and California wines with products from Iran. Hansen, 67, feels that boycotting U.S. products is a way to express his discontent with President Trump’s approach, especially regarding Trump’s past comments about acquiring Greenland.
Hansen isn’t alone in this sentiment. Across Europe and Canada, there’s a growing movement to boycott American products. Many folks are sharing ideas online about how to avoid U.S. goods. The feelings of discontent are particularly strong in the Nordic countries, with Denmark seemingly the most affected, especially after Trump’s controversial comments.
Data shows a noticeable increase in online searches for “Boycott USA” when tariffs were discussed, particularly from areas like Denmark, Canada, and France. Meanwhile, brands linked to Trump, such as Tesla, have faced backlash, leading to declining sales figures in Europe as resentment builds against them.
In Denmark, the leading supermarket chain has introduced a star label for European-made products, allowing shoppers to easily identify local goods. This label isn’t strictly a boycott but rather a response to customer demands for more European options, as stated by the CEO of the Salling Group. The aim is to provide choices while still carrying international products.
The reaction against the U.S. is palpable. Many Danes have stopped using popular American brands and are opting for European alternatives. For instance, one individual has given up popular American food items and found more affordable substitutes from European brands.
Another concerned citizen, Bo Albertus, started a Facebook group, “Boykot varer fra USA,” which has gained significant traction, now boasting over 80,000 members. This online space has become a rallying point for those upset with American policies.
The feeling against U.S. policies isn’t limited to Denmark. In France, a farmer has initiated a similar boycott group that quickly attracted thousands of members, focused specifically on opposing what he describes as an ideological war waged by Trump against Europe.
Despite the rising anger, economists suggest the boycott may not significantly affect U.S. exports or policy-making. Some Americans might simply shrug off the Europeans’ frustrations.
As individuals consider their purchasing choices, some find the decision to boycott more challenging than others. For example, families wrestling with the idea of giving up popular streaming services like Netflix illustrates the complexity of such boycotts and the influence of American culture on daily life.
The underlying message remains clear: people are using their purchasing power as a statement against political decisions and to show support for their local economies.
