Boycott Turkey: BWCMA declares an indefinite halt on textile commerce with Turkey & Azerbaijan

In a decisive move rooted in growing geopolitical concerns, the Bangalore Wholesale Cloth Merchants' Association (BWCMA) has declared an indefinite halt on all textile commerce with Turkey and Azerbaijan. The association, which represents a vast network of textile traders in Karnataka, made this announcement as a show of disapproval toward the perceived alignment of the two countries with Pakistan on sensitive regional matters, particularly regarding India’s internal affairs.

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The BWCMA revealed that its decision followed thorough discussions and a consensus among its members, all of whom have agreed to stop both imports and exports of textile-related goods to and from Turkey and Azerbaijan. The association also pledged not to engage in any indirect trade that could involve goods originating from or destined for the two nations.

In its official statement released Friday, the association emphasized that the suspension is indefinite and will continue until the governing body decides otherwise. They have also requested full cooperation from customs officials, shipping agents, and allied partners to ensure that the trade stoppage is implemented without logistical disruptions.

This trade freeze comes at a time when India’s diplomatic ties with Turkey and Azerbaijan are under strain. Both countries have, in various international settings, openly supported Pakistan’s stance on contentious issues such as Kashmir. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in particular, has repeatedly criticized India's domestic policies concerning Jammu and Kashmir, remarks that have been strongly rejected by the Indian government. Azerbaijan, closely allied with Turkey, has also echoed similar sentiments on multiple platforms.

By suspending trade, Bengaluru’s textile community signals a firm stand that echoes wider national sentiment, asserting that commercial relationships must align with broader ethical and national interests.