‘Boycott Turkey’ movement gains traction across India after Ankara backs Pakistan

A nationwide economic boycott of Turkish products is gaining momentum in India, following Ankara’s support for Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attack and India’s subsequent Operation Sindoor. What began as online outrage under the banner of ‘Boycott Turkey’ has now transformed into real-world action, with Indian traders and consumers taking a strong stand against Turkish imports in the name of national interest.

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One of the most significant moves has come from Udaipur, India’s leading marble processing hub, where traders have decided to stop importing Turkish marble altogether. Turkey is India’s largest supplier of marble, contributing around 70% of all imports in this category. The boycott, fueled by reports of Turkish drones being used by Pakistan, is projected to impact imports worth over Rs 2,500-3,000 crore annually.

The effects are also visible in the fruit trade, especially with Turkish apples disappearing from markets in Pune, Mumbai, and other cities. These apples, once a major source of seasonal revenue, are being replaced with alternatives from Iran, New Zealand, the US, and Indian states like Himachal Pradesh. As a result, apple prices have surged due to limited availability caused by the boycott, supply disruptions, and weather conditions.

The campaign mirrors similar nationalist responses seen after previous border tensions. Traders now urge the government to expand restrictions beyond marble and apples, calling for a broader economic break from Turkey to send a strong diplomatic message.