The ongoing tension between India and Pakistan is no longer confined to diplomatic circles alone; its impact is starkly visible in the choices of the business community and the general public. Following Turkey's open support for Pakistan, a nationwide 'Boycott Turkey' movement has gained momentum. From Pune in Maharashtra to Udaipur in Rajasthan, traders are boycotting Turkish imports, sending a strong economic message to Turkey.
According to an agency, merchants in Pune have completely stopped selling Turkish-imported apples. These apples have vanished from local markets, and customers have also boycotted them. Annually, Turkish apples account for approximately ₹1,000 to ₹1,200 crore of the fruit market in Pune, but now this trade has come to a standstill.
Suyyog Jende, an apple merchant at Pune's APMC (Agricultural Produce Market Committee) Market stated, "We have completely stopped importing apples from Turkey. Instead, we are sourcing them from Himachal, Uttarakhand, Iran, and other regions." He mentioned that this decision is inspired by patriotism and is in support of the government's stance. Another fruit trader observed a 50% drop in the demand for Turkish apples, as consumers openly boycott them.
Also read: Four Ways to Challenge Turkey’s Support for Pakistan
Local residents of Pune have actively participated in this boycott. A customer remarked, "When there is no compulsion to buy from a country that opposes ours, why should we? We have alternatives within our country and other options too." The government is urged to ban products from such countries and bolster national security measures.
Asia's Largest Marble Hub, Udaipur Traders Say No to Turkish Marble Imports
Renowned as Asia's largest marble trading hub, traders in Udaipur have decided to halt marble imports from Turkey. The reason—Turkey’s unwavering support for Pakistan.
Kapil Surana, president of the Udaipur Marble Processors' Committee, explained, "All members of the committee unanimously decided not to engage in commerce with Turkey as long as it supports Pakistan." He added that about 70% of the total marble imported to India comes from Turkey, but this import is now ceasing.
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Kapil Surana further stated that if not only Udaipur, but all marble associations across the country cease trading with Turkey, it would send a powerful global message that the Indian government is not alone, as both the industry and common people stand with it. He added that this decision is not just a response to Turkey but also an opportunity for the Indian marble industry.
He also pointed out that, with the halt in Turkish imports, there will be an increased demand for domestically produced marble in India. This not only boosts the national economy but also creates employment for thousands involved in local mining and construction.
Political Disputes Affecting Global Trade
Turkey's stance during this period of escalating tension between India and Pakistan has irked Indian traders. Turkey has consistently supported Pakistan. The move by Udaipur's marble traders is not just an economic decision but a strategic message indicating that India is now ready to respond to its adversaries at every level.
