Alwar Fruit Traders Reject Turkish Apples, Sending a Strong Message

Traders in Rajasthan have initiated a nationwide boycott of Turkish products, particularly targeting Turkish apples, in response to Turkey’s support for Pakistan amid recent military tensions with India. The Alwar Fruit Mandi Union has taken a firm stance by removing Turkish apples from local markets, reflecting a broader economic backlash against Turkey. This move follows similar actions by marble traders in Ajmer, who have also ceased imports of Turkish stones, signaling a growing sentiment among Indian traders to counter Turkey’s political alignment.

Boycott of Turkish Apples in Alwar

In Alwar, the local fruit markets have seen a significant shift as traders respond to public sentiment regarding Turkey’s political stance. The Alwar Fruit Mandi Union has announced a complete ban on the sale of Turkish apples, which typically see over 15 tonnes imported daily from March to June. Saurabh Kalra, the General Secretary of the Union, emphasized that this decision is not merely a market choice but a strong message against Turkey’s support for Pakistan. Starting Friday, shops will prominently display posters advocating for the boycott, and an awareness campaign will be launched to discourage any further sales of Turkish apples. Kalra warned that any trader found selling these apples would be acting against national interest.

Impact on Local Trade and Alternatives

The boycott has prompted traders to seek alternatives to Turkish imports. Pankaj Saini, the Union secretary, confirmed that apples from Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and South Africa will replace the Turkish varieties. He assured consumers that there is sufficient stock in cold storage to meet demand, alleviating concerns about potential shortages. This proactive approach aims to ensure that local markets remain stable while reinforcing the message of economic resistance against Turkey. The traders’ association is also encouraging the public to reconsider travel plans to Turkey, urging Indians to choose other destinations in light of the current geopolitical climate.

Wider Boycott Movement Across India

The boycott of Turkish products is not limited to Rajasthan. Similar actions have been reported in fruit markets across major cities like Delhi and Mumbai, indicating a widespread movement among Indian traders and consumers. The economic implications are significant, as Turkey exports goods worth over Rs 1,200 crore annually to India, with fruits, particularly apples, making up a considerable portion of that trade. The growing sentiment against Turkey’s political stance has galvanized traders to take collective action, reflecting a broader trend of economic pushback in response to international relations.

Travel Advisories and Industry Response

In addition to the trade boycott, calls for a complete travel boycott to Turkey and Azerbaijan have gained traction. Major travel platforms, including EaseMyTrip and Ixigo, have issued advisories discouraging travel to these countries. MakeMyTrip has also halted all promotional offers related to Turkey and Azerbaijan, signaling a significant shift in the travel industry’s approach to these destinations. As the situation evolves, the economic repercussions of these boycotts may have lasting effects on trade relations between India and Turkey, as well as on the travel industry’s dynamics in the region.

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