City traders call for boycotting Turkish apples, dry fruits

Guwahati: In response to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, Guwahati's trading community has urged local merchants and buyers to avoid Turkish products, specifically apples and dry fruits. The traders emphasise that this decision stems from patriotic sentiments rather than concerns about cost or product quality.

The boycott movement has gained momentum following Turkey's support for Pakistan and its criticism of India's military action against terror installations in the neighbouring nation.

Turkish apples have traditionally maintained a significant presence in city markets, particularly when domestic produce is scarce or not fresh. According to Prantosh Roy, general secretary of All Assam Traders Association (AATA), these imports reach Assam through Kolkata after passing through Rajasthan, Gujarat and Maharashtra.

"We've been appealing to traders to stop selling these bright red Turkish apples, as well as the dry fruits that have grown popular over the years. Yes, there is business in them, but nationalism comes first. This is not a decision driven by commerce or profit, but by our love for the country," Roy said.

Supporting this stance, Kailash Kabre, vice-president of Kamrup Chamber of Commerce, stated that business activities and terrorism cannot coexist, emphasising that this boycott sends a strong message to Turkey regarding India's stance against support for hostile activities.

Local fruit vendors appear committed to this national cause, prioritising patriotism over commercial gains. "We are unfazed by that as we can rely on our state's own produce, which are from Kashmir and Shimla. Internationally, there is a plan to procure from the United States, but given the steep tariffs, we are looking for alternate options," said Varun Kumar, a city-based fruit seller.

Kumar said apple sales typically conclude this month, as these fruits are predominantly winter favourites, with current prices ranging between Rs 100-120 per kg, varying across retailers. "Summer season is arriving, so its general that consumers are going to shift their focus more on the summer fruits like mango and watermelon," he said.