Operation Sindoor: India boycotts Turkish apples inflicting an unbearable economic loss of Rs 1,500 Cr

In a significant shift in consumer behavior, Indians have decided to boycott certain products from Turkey and Azerbaijan in response to geopolitical tensions. Turkey’s support for Pakistan during the ongoing Indo-Pak tensions, particularly through the supply of drones and drone operators, has led to a sharp decline in the demand for Turkish apples, electronic items, and marble in India.

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

The demand for Turkish apples had been notably high in states like Maharashtra, where the fruit was a popular item. Previously, India spent approximately Rs 1,500 crore annually on Turkish apples alone. However, following the recent geopolitical developments, Indians have increasingly refused to purchase Turkish goods, which has been an economic blow to Turkey’s agricultural exports.

#WATCH | Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh | Following Turkey's support for Pakistan amid recent tensions with India, the fruit traders of Sahibabad fruit market decided to boycott imports of apples and other products from Turkey. pic.twitter.com/MR0gmDvSQ1

— ANI (@ANI)

#WATCH | Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh | Following Turkey's support for Pakistan amid recent tensions with India, the fruit traders of Sahibabad fruit market decided to boycott imports of apples and other products from Turkey. pic.twitter.com/MR0gmDvSQ1

— ANI (@ANI) May 14, 2025

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In 2024, India sent 3.3 lakh tourists to Turkey, which accounted for about 9% of Turkey's total tourist footfall. Similarly, 2.43 lakh Indians visited Azerbaijan, contributing significantly to the tourism industry in both countries. However, with the rise in tensions, Indians have decided to reduce travel to these nations, with many opting to reconsider their vacation plans in Turkey and Azerbaijan. Both nations now face a significant economic threat if this trend continues, as Indian tourists are crucial to the financial stability of the tourism sector in these countries.

Tourism and trade have long been strong economic ties between India and these nations, but the recent shifts in consumer sentiment could lead to a collapse in both sectors. Indian consumers, by boycotting these nations' products and curtailing travel, are sending a clear message about their stance on the ongoing geopolitical situation.