India has started restricting Turkish involvement in sensitive infrastructure projects. Authorities cite national security concerns. However, they have not extended these restrictions to trade.
India Prioritizes Trade Surplus
India enjoys a trade surplus of $2.73 billion with Turkey. Therefore, officials are hesitant to impose a full trade ban. According to a government official speaking to The Indian Express, “We have received several representations requesting a ban on imports from Turkey. Apple growers from Himachal Pradesh have specifically sought a ban on Turkish apple imports. However, India maintains a trade surplus with Turkey, and we must also consider the interests of our exporters. A trade ban could send a strong geopolitical message, but it’s a question of how far we are willing to take it.”
India Exports Machinery; Turkey Sends Fruits
India mainly exports engineering goods, electronics, and chemicals to Turkey. These exports have steadily grown over the past five years.
Meanwhile, Turkey exports fruits, nuts, gold, and marble to India. Additionally, after the Ukraine war, Turkey increased its imports of Indian petroleum. However, these imports have dropped sharply in FY25.
Security Tensions Increase
India’s trade policy comes amid Turkey’s growing ties with Pakistan. After India launched Operation Sindoor against terror hubs in Pakistan and PoK, Turkey backed Pakistan publicly.
Just two weeks ago, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reaffirmed support for Pakistan. He cited religious and historical bonds. Moreover, he expressed solidarity after the terror attack in Pahalgam, which India blamed on Pakistan-backed militants.
Farmers and Traders Demand Action
Meanwhile, Indian farmers and traders are demanding restrictions on Turkish imports. Last month, apple growers from Himachal Pradesh urged the Union Commerce Ministry to ban Turkish apples. They said the cheaper, subsidized imports are hurting local farmers financially. They also stressed that apples are essential to the hill states’ economy.
Similarly, marble processors in Udaipur wrote to the Prime Minister’s Office, asking for a ban on Turkish marble. They argued that Turkish imports damage domestic industry.
Turkey Deepens Ties With Pakistan
Earlier this month, Erdogan met Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Istanbul. According to Erdogan’s office, both leaders agreed to strengthen ties in defence, energy, and transport.
India Balances Strategy and Economy
Despite the pressure, India appears to be carefully weighing its options. While a trade ban may send a political message, it could also harm India’s exporters. Thus, the government remains cautious.