India has begun its economic response to Turkey. Pune's traders have stopped buying apples from Turkey, while Udaipur's marble traders have also decided to halt trade with Turkey.
Trade-Strike: Amidst rising political tensions in India, traders have taken economic action against Turkey for its support of Pakistan. A 'trade strike' has begun, with Indian traders boycotting goods imported from Turkey. This move follows Turkey's support for Pakistan, demonstrating India's willingness to respond to its adversaries on all fronts.
Pune Traders: Halt on Apple Imports from Turkey
The growing resentment against Turkey in India is now impacting businesses. Traders in Pune, Maharashtra, are boycotting apples imported from Turkey. Pune annually imported apples worth approximately ₹1,000 to ₹1,200 crore from Turkey, but this trade has now come to a standstill.
Sayyog Jende, an apple trader at Pune's APMC market, stated that he has completely stopped importing apples from Turkey. He is now sourcing apples from Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Iran, and other regions. This decision was made in support of the nation and the government.
Consumers are also boycotting Turkish apples. One customer stated, "Why should we buy their goods when Turkey is against our country? We have domestic and other alternatives. The government should impose restrictions on products from such countries."
Udaipur Marble Traders: End of Trade with Turkey
Similarly, traders at Udaipur's marble hub, one of Asia's largest, have decided to stop importing marble from Turkey. Kapil Surana, President of the Udaipur Marble Processors Committee, explained that all committee members unanimously decided to cease trade with Turkey until it stops supporting Pakistan.
According to Kapil Surana, approximately 70% of the total marble imported into India comes from Turkey. However, this import will now be stopped. He stated, "This step is not only a response to Turkey but also an opportunity for the Indian marble industry. When imports from Turkey stop, the demand for Indian-produced marble will naturally increase, strengthening the Indian economy and creating employment for thousands."
India's Trade Strike
While tensions between India and Pakistan have persisted for years, Turkey's overt support for Pakistan has become a significant issue for India, both diplomatically and economically. Trade relations with Turkey are now being questioned. By boycotting goods imported from Turkey, India has demonstrated its readiness to respond to Pakistan and its supporters not only diplomatically but also economically.
Turkey's support for Pakistan is a direct message to Indian traders to boycott Turkish imports. This action has fostered unity within India's business community.
Will this benefit the Indian economy?
The cessation of trade in Turkish apples and marble will present a significant opportunity to increase the demand for Indian products. Udaipur's marble traders and Pune's apple traders believe this move will boost sales of Indian products. This will also provide a boost to local mining, agriculture, and construction industries, creating new employment opportunities.
