Indian Traders Announce Total Boycott Of Turkey And Azerbaijan Over Support To Pakistan, Smriti Irani Voices Support

In a strong assertion of economic nationalism, over 125 leading trade representatives from across India announced a total boycott of all commercial, travel, and cultural ties with Turkey and Azerbaijan, Business Today reported.

This decision was formalised on 16 May at a national conference in New Delhi, where over 125 top trade leaders from across the country unanimously passed the resolution under the banner of the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT).

The boycott extends to all forms of trade, including imports and exports, business delegations, and even travel and tourism. CAIT has also called on the Indian film industry and corporate sector to refrain from shooting films or promotional content in Turkey and Azerbaijan, warning that any such activities may face backlash at home.

“It is deeply unfortunate that Turkey and Azerbaijan, who have benefited from India’s goodwill, aid, and strategic support in times of distress, have now chosen to side with Pakistan — a country known globally for its support to terrorism. Their position not only hurts India’s sovereignty and national interest but also directly insults the sentiments of 140 crore Indians,” said CAIT Secretary General and MP Praveen Khandelwal.

National strategic adviser to CAIT Smriti Irani said “The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) decided today to end all trade with Turkey and Azerbaijan. All trade organisations have called for a boycott, this is in support of those brave sons of India, in support of those brave women who keep the country's borders safe….”

The boycott is part of a broader national sentiment, with public anger growing over Turkey's military and diplomatic support for Pakistan, including the reported supply of drones and military operatives used in attacks against India.