Indian traders may boycott Turkey, Azerbaijan over support to Pakistan; CAIT key meet on May 16

Indian traders may soon stop all trade ties with Turkey and Azerbaijan, as leading trade body, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has announced a major decision will be taken on this front on Friday, May 16, at a national conference in New Delhi. The call for boycott comes in the wake of both countries’ support to Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir.

CAIT said India must not trade with nations “that stand against us.” The organisation’s Secretary General and Chandni Chowk MP, Praveen Khandelwal, stated that Indian traders are ready to demonstrate patriotism by boycotting countries that go against India’s interests.

“This is not just about trade — it’s about national sentiment. We stand with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian Armed Forces,” said Khandelwal.

Also Read: Zee Business Impact | Turkey tourism feels heat as Indian travellers mull move to other destinations amid Indo-Pak conflict

India-Turkey trade worth billions 

India exported goods worth $5.2 billion to Turkey between April 2024 and February 2025, according to CAIT data, a drop from $6.65 billion in 2023–24. Imports from Turkey during the same period stood at $2.84 billion, also slightly down from the previous year.

India mainly sends refined petroleum, motor vehicles, steel, pharmaceuticals, precious stones,and textiles to Turkey, while it imports crude petroleum, marble, gold, fruits, and plastics in return.

“The economic impact on Turkey will be significant,” Khandelwal said, adding, that sectors like furniture, food processing, mining, and textiles are likely to feel the blow.

Also Read:'China using Pakistan as a proxy, can't be trusted': British expert advises Trump, West to back India 

Azerbaijan trade smaller — but symbolically crucial

Trade between India and Azerbaijan is relatively smaller, with exports from India worth $86.07 million during April 2024–Feb 2025, down from $89.67 million in 2023–24. Imports rose slightly to $1.93 million.

India exports electronics, grains, pharmaceuticals, machinery, and tobacco, while it imports mineral oils, hides, chemicals, and cotton from Azerbaijan. Despite the lower figures, CAIT leaders emphasised the importance of sending a “clear message” even through symbolic moves.

Besides the trade boycott, CAIT’s national meet will also discuss holding a Tiranga Yatra (Tricolour March) to honour the armed forces. There’s also growing concern within the trader community about e-commerce monopolies, which CAIT alleges are hurting small businesses.

Travel bookings to Turkey, Azerbaijan take a hit

The anti-Turkey and anti-Azerbaijan sentiment isn’t limited to trade. Following their open support to Pakistan, Indian travellers are increasingly cancelling or avoiding trips to the two nations.

Travel booking platforms have reported a surge in cancellations, with several service providers even suspending bookings for Turkey and Azerbaijan altogether. Others are actively advising customers  against visiting these countries.