Boycott Turkey Azerbaijan: How Geopolitical Tensions Are Reshaping India’s Trade and Economy
Introduction
Boycott Turkey Azerbaijan : India’s geopolitical tensions with Pakistan have taken an international turn, drawing Turkey and Azerbaijan into the spotlight. The controversy began when Pakistan was accused of killing 26 civilians in Pahalgam, Kashmir. What further inflamed the situation was Turkey and Azerbaijan’s vocal support for Pakistan—labeling them as a “brother nation” and even aiding with Turkish-made drones during the conflict. This triggered widespread anger among Indian citizens, resulting in nationwide calls to boycott Turkish and Azerbaijani products and services.
As a result, India’s trade landscape with these two nations is witnessing significant shifts. Let’s explore the economic impact of this boycott, the affected industries, and what it means for India’s broader trade strategy.
India-Turkey Trade: On a Downward Spiral
India’s exports to Turkey saw a substantial drop, falling from $6.1 billion last year to $5.2 billion this year—a 14.83% decline. Although Turkey accounts for only 1.31% of India’s total exports, this dip is notable. Imports from Turkey also dropped sharply by 17.25%, from $3.4 billion to $2.8 billion. While trade volumes are relatively small in India’s overall context, Turkey’s role in certain niche sectors like marble and fruits is significant.
On the export front, India sends mineral fuels, electrical equipment, vehicles, pharmaceuticals, and textiles to Turkey. Conversely, Turkey supplies India with essential items such as marble (nearly 70% of India’s marble imports), apples (worth around $10 million), cement, and mineral oil.
India-Azerbaijan Trade: Small But Rising
India’s exports to Azerbaijan are modest at $86 million but have grown by 4.96% compared to last year. Imports, though tiny in volume at $2 million, have spiked by a massive 242.77%. These include animal fodder, essential oils, and leather products.
Azerbaijan is primarily an emerging trade partner, with India exporting tobacco, tea, coffee, cereals, plastics, and ceramics to the nation. However, with the country siding with Pakistan, India’s future trade relations may become strained.
Key Trade Data:
| Country | Metric | 2023-24 | 2024-25 | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turkey | Exports from India | $6.1 billion | $5.2 billion | -14.83% |
| Imports to India | $3.4 billion | $2.8 billion | -17.25% | |
| Azerbaijan | Exports from India | $82 million | $86 million | +4.96% |
| Imports to India | $1 million | $2 million | +242.77% |
Industries Hit Hard by the Boycott
- Marble & Stone: India heavily relies on Turkey for marble imports. The Udaipur Marble Processors Association has already banned Turkish marble. This affects construction projects and interior decor industries, causing raw material shortages.
- Fruit Market: Turkish apples, once popular in Indian markets, have disappeared. The gap is being filled by imports from Iran, the U.S., and Indian-grown apples, causing prices to rise by ₹20–30 per kg.
- Travel & Tourism: Travel to Turkey and Azerbaijan has taken a significant hit. Popular travel websites like MakeMyTrip, ixigo, and EaseMyTrip have seen cancellations spike up to 260%. Over 5 lakh Indian tourists had visited these countries in 2023—highlighting the magnitude of impact.
Corporate Exposure at Risk
Jubilant FoodWorks, which operates 746 Domino’s outlets and 160 COFFY cafés in Turkey and 10 outlets in Azerbaijan through its subsidiary DP Eurasia, could face operational risks and revenue loss if tensions escalate.
Similarly, Indian giants like Tata Motors, Mahindra, and Reliance have invested over $125 million in Turkey. With the current instability, their operations, supply chains, and profitability could be adversely affected.
Recent Developments Adding Fuel to Fire
- The Indian government canceled the security clearance of Turkish ground handling firm Çelebi Aviation, leading to termination of its contracts at nine airports.
- Adani Airport Holdings ended its agreement with Çelebi, citing national security.
- Çelebi challenged this in Delhi High Court, but the Indian government stood firm on its stance.
- Educational collaborations with Turkish institutions have also been suspended by top Indian universities such as IIT Bombay, JNU, and Jamia Millia Islamia.
- The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) is leading the charge to suspend Turkish imports entirely, with more decisions expected soon.
Conclusion
The boycott against Turkey and Azerbaijan is more than a diplomatic rebuke—it’s reshaping India’s trade ecosystem. From the marble industry to tourism and major corporate investments, the ripples are being felt across sectors. As geopolitical tensions rise, India’s economic ties with these nations may be permanently altered. The next few months will be critical in determining the long-term consequences of these actions on India’s global trade strategy.
Q&A Section
Q1. Why is India boycotting Turkey and Azerbaijan?
Because both countries supported Pakistan during the recent Pahalgam conflict, where 26 civilians were killed. Their stance provoked widespread anger in India.
Q2. What products does India import most from Turkey?
Marble (70% of India’s imports), fresh apples, mineral oil, chemicals, cement, and gold.
Q3. How are Indian industries impacted?
The marble and fruit industries are facing raw material shortages and price hikes. Travel and tourism businesses are also suffering due to mass cancellations.
Q4. Which companies could be most affected?
Jubilant FoodWorks (Domino’s Turkey & Azerbaijan), Tata Motors, Mahindra, and Reliance, which have major investments and operations in Turkey.
Q5. Has the Indian government taken any official steps?
Yes, it revoked security clearance for Turkish firm Çelebi, cancelled contracts, and universities suspended academic ties with Turkish institutions.
Q6. Are there any alternatives for Turkish imports?
Yes. For apples, imports are shifting to Iran, New Zealand, and domestic sources. Marble imports may look toward Vietnam, Italy, or local suppliers.
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