Rising Boycott Calls in India: A Threat to Turkey's Economy?

In recent developments within the geopolitical landscape, India’s resolute boycott of Turkey following Ankara’s support for Pakistan has emerged as a significant concern for the latter’s economic stability. The movement began with a social media uproar and quickly spread to various sectors including tourism and trade. But how did this all unfold, and what does it mean for the future economic relations between the two nations?

The Catalyst: Ankara’s Support for Islamabad

It all started with Turkey’s endorsement of Pakistan following India’s Operation Sindoor. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan openly criticized India’s strategic strikes against terror bases in Pakistan, causing ripples across the Indian subcontinent. According to Firstpost, Erdogan’s government further exacerbated the situation by providing Islamabad with Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to bolster its defense capabilities. Such actions were perceived as a direct affront by Indian citizens and businesses alike.

An Economic Backlash: Tourism and Trade Hit Hard

With phrases like #BoycottTurkey trending, Indian nationals rapidly canceled travel plans to Turkey. The ease of visas, direct flights, and Indian hotels in Istanbul didn’t deter the wave of patriotism that saw a 60% drop in new bookings along with a startling 250% surge in cancellations to Turkey and Azerbaijan. Moreover, the domino effect hit traders. Major Indian import sectors, such as Turkish marble and apples, witnessed boycotts, with local products swiftly filling the gap.

India Stands Firm: Display of Nationalism

The economic impact doesn’t stop at tourism; it’s a broader reflection of growing national sentiment. Indian traders who once relied on Turkish imports have aligned their practices with a patriotic stance. The Udaipur Marble Processors Association has called for national unity, sending a clear message that “business cannot be bigger than the nation.” The same patriotic fervor echoes across various sectors as India roots its stance against countries perceived to side with terrorism.

Diplomatic Chess: Economy vs. Allegiances

With Turkey already on fragile economic footing, the stance by India could compound its challenges. Turkey’s economic reliance on tourism from India, a major contributor to its revenue, is now under threat. Likewise, Indian exports like mineral fuels and machinery to Turkey, though modest, form part of an intricate web of global trade. Yet, Erdogan’s unfaltering allegiance to Pakistan remains steadfast, as reflected in his continued declarations of support despite the potential economic fallout.

Potential for Change: Assessing Future Prospects

As India calls for more stringent actions, including potentially severing educational ties like the recent suspension of an MoU with Inonu University, Turkey’s economic woes could deepen if such sentiments persist. Erdogan’s recent engagements with the international community hint at a balancing act of diplomacy and allegiance. Whether this boycott prompts a recalibration of Turkey’s foreign policy remains to be seen.

As the economic landscape shifts under the weight of these geopolitical tensions, stakeholders continue to watch closely. Will economic pressure lead Erdogan to reassess Turkey’s alliances? The story unfolds as the two nations navigate this complex diplomatic chessboard.