Mumbai: Indian traders will meet today to decide on a trade boycott of Turkey and Azerbaijan. The Confederation of All India Traders has convened a national conference in New Delhi with key trade leaders from various states of the country. CAIT said if Indian traders stop trading with Turkey and Azerbaijan, it will significantly impact their economies.
Those attending the meeting are expected to take a decision on halting all import-export trade with Turkey and Azerbaijan due to their support for Pakistan during 'Operation Sindoor', the anti-terror military operation by India.
CAIT secretary general and Member of Parliament from Chandni Chowk, Praveen Khandelwal, stated that according to data from April 2024 to February 2025, India’s exports to Turkey were valued at USD 5.2 billion, compared to USD 6.65 billion in 2023–24. During the same period, imports from Turkey were USD 2.84 billion, down from USD 3.78 billion in 2023–24. Similarly, during this period, India’s exports to Azerbaijan were only USD 86.07 million, down from USD 89.67 million in 2023–24. On the other hand, imports from Azerbaijan were USD 1.93 million during this period, compared to USD 0.74 million in 2023–24.
CAIT states that there is no question of trading with countries that are against India, and this is the time for Indian traders to demonstrate their patriotism and support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
CAIT national president B C Bhartia said that India exports several key items to Turkey including refined petroleum, motor vehicles and parts, steel, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, precious stones, and textiles. In return, India imports crude petroleum, machinery, marble, gold, fruits, plastics, and textiles from Turkey. India exports tobacco, electronics, machinery, pharmaceuticals, ceramic products, and grain to Azerbaijan. From Azerbaijan, India mainly imports mineral oil, chemicals, raw hides, aluminum, and cotton.
During the meeting, decisions will be made regarding organising a nationwide Tiranga Yatra to express gratitude for the valour and bravery of the Indian armed forces, as well as addressing the issue of e-commerce companies monopolising Indian trade.
Khandelwal said that the trade boycott,l could cos billions of dollars in export losses, which would significantly affect its domestic industries such as stone and mining, furniture, textiles, and food processing. The boycott by Indian traders will make them pay the price for standing against India.
