This is a historic break with American brands that is taking shape in France. According to an Ipsos / leDénicheur study published on March 26, 2025, the boycott of brands across the Atlantic is gaining momentum, following Donald Trump's statements on his new trade policy and the increase in customs fees.
A historic rejection of the United States
Since Trump's election, only 25% of French people retain a positive perception of America, compared to 65% in 2010 under Obama. This level is the lowest recorded for forty years. "Never in the last 40 years has the level been so low, even during the Bush years," underlines François Kraus, director of the Political division of IFOP, which has just released a similar study.
The survey also reveals that 62% of French people support the boycott of American products, even if only 15% of French people actually apply this economic sanction in their daily lives. Trade tensions and the more than tense exchanges between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have crystallized tensions, provoking a wave of protest on social networks. Unsurprisingly, the phenomenon particularly affects left-wing voters (72%), but also seniors, with 81% of those over 65. Another notable characteristic: people with incomes above 2,400 euros net monthly are among those most inclined to boycott. Already, one in three French people say they avoid at least one product of American origin.
Which brands are affected?
It is the most visible symbols of American identity that are suffering the most significant backlash. At the top of the ranking, Coca-Cola accounts for 48% of boycott actions, closely followed by McDonald’s (44%). Tesla completes this podium with 19% rejection, particularly targeted because of its boss Elon Musk and his outspoken support for Donald Trump. The economic consequences of this boycott are already noticeable. Tesla sales fell by 49% in the European Union in the first two months of the year. French Tesla owners even report being intimidated on the road, like this Breton driver threatened with an iron bar.
The reasons for the boycott go beyond simple political opposition. While 62% of boycotters are acting to protest Trump's policies, the same proportion are doing so to support French employment. A third of French people (33%) say they are ready to favor French and identified European alternatives in terms of high-tech products and e-commerce. However, while 40% of French people (with a clear predominance among young people) want to favor local alternatives, the vast majority do not know which alternatives to turn to.
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