Many Fruit Mandis across India announce boycott of Turkish apples

By: Naveed Sheikh

Srinagar: A wave of economic protests has swept across India’s fruit markets, with traders in several prominent mandis announcing a boycott of Turkish apples and other produce. The move comes in response to Turkey’s perceived vocal support for Pakistan during recent India-Pakistan tensions, particularly following India’s Operation Sindoor.

Market analysts who spoke to Ziraat Times said it was not yet clear what impact this boycott would have on the demand and pricing of Kashmir apples in the upcoming season.

The Mandis and Markets leading the boycott

The boycott has gained significant traction in several major fruit markets across the country, with traders refusing to place new orders for Turkish apples. Fruit traders in Sahibabad Mandi and Ghantaghar Mandi in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh have taken a firm stand and are advocating complete boycott of Turkish apples.

In Meerut Mandi, Uttar Pradesh, local vendors and wholesalers burned crates of Turkish apples in a symbolic gesture of protest. Gorakhpur Vyapar Mandal, Uttar Pradesh has submitted a memorandum to the district administration, demanding an official directive to discourage Turkish imports. President of the association, stated, “The boycott must be enforced on a broader scale. The government should intervene until Ankara changes its stance.”

Mumbai Wholesale Markets, Maharashtra have joined the boycott, with traders prioritizing apples from domestic sources and countries like the United States, Poland, Iran, and South Africa. Pune Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC), one of the largest in Maharashtra, has seen Turkish apples vanish from its stalls. Naresh Chander, a prominent apple trader, confirmed a drastic decline in demand, stating, “We have decided to stop purchasing apples from Turkey and are instead opting for produce from Himachal, Uttarakhand, Iran, and other regions. This decision aligns with our patriotic duty.”

Economic and market impact

India imports over ₹1,200 crore ($145 million) worth of goods from Turkey annually, with apples and other fruits forming a significant portion. Turkish apples, particularly Red Delicious and Royal Gala varieties, have been popular in India due to their quality and competitive pricing.

The boycott has led to a sharp decline in demand, with retail prices rising by ₹20-30 per kg and wholesale rates for 10 kg cartons increasing by ₹200-300. Traders are sourcing alternatives from Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Iran, Washington, New Zealand, Poland, and South Africa to fill the gap. However, disruptions in Kashmir’s apple supply due to rain and road closures have added pressure on domestic markets.

Broader implications

The boycott extends beyond apples, with marble traders in Udaipur halting imports from Turkey, which supplies 70% of India’s marble. Travel companies like Ixigo, EaseMyTrip, and MakeMyTrip have reported a surge in cancellations for Turkey-related bookings. Social media campaigns with hashtags like #BoycottTurkey and #NationFirst have amplified the movement.