In recent weeks, a significant consumer movement has emerged in Sweden, mirroring similar actions in Denmark and Norway, aimed at boycotting American products. This initiative stems from widespread dissatisfaction with the United States’ recent foreign policy decisions under President Donald Trump, particularly regarding Ukraine and European security.
Nearly one-third of Swedes boycotting American goods
A recent survey conducted by the opinion institute Verian, commissioned by SVT, reveals that approximately 29% of Swedes have abstained from purchasing American products in the past month as a form of political protest. The survey, which included over 1,000 participants, indicates that an additional 40% are considering similar actions in the near future. This suggests a growing skepticism towards the United States among the Swedish public.
The inclination to participate in the boycott varies across political lines. Among supporters of the Left Party (Vänsterpartiet) and the Social Democrats (Socialdemokraterna), 40% and 36% respectively have chosen to avoid American products. In contrast, only 23% of voters for the Sweden Democrats (Sverigedemokraterna) have engaged in the boycott.
Online communities fueling the movement
The boycott has gained momentum through social media platforms. A Facebook group titled “Bojkotta varor från USA” (“Boycott goods from the USA”) has rapidly attracted over 65,000 members. Members actively share alternatives to American products and services, encouraging others to support European or local options.
Challenges in implementing the boycott
Despite the growing support, participants acknowledge the difficulties in completely avoiding American products, given their prevalence in daily life. Jannike Kohinoor, creator of the aforementioned Facebook group, expressed the necessity to act, stating, “I cannot vote in the American elections or demonstrate in the streets of the United States; I feel I must do something.”
Wider Nordic response
This Swedish movement is part of a broader trend in Northern Europe. In Denmark, the “Boykot varer fra USA” (“Boycott goods from the USA”) Facebook group has garnered nearly 67,000 members. Similarly, in Norway, the company Haltbakk Bunkers announced it would cease supplying fuel to American military ships, citing moral reasons related to U.S. foreign policy decisions.
Potential economic implications
While the long-term economic impact of these boycotts remains uncertain, there are indications of immediate effects. For instance, Tesla, the American electric car manufacturer, has experienced a 44% drop in sales in Sweden and a 38% decline in Norway in January compared to the same period in 2024. In February, Tesla’s sales in Norway further plummeted by 70%.
As these consumer-led boycotts continue to gain traction, they reflect a growing discontent with U.S. policies among Northern European countries, potentially signaling a shift in transatlantic economic relations.
