Turkish apples flood Machua market amid 'boycott Turkey' trend | Watch

Amid rising tensions and a nationwide social media campaign calling for a boycott of Turkey over its recent support for Pakistan, a section of fruit traders in Kolkata’s Machua Fruit Market is coming under scrutiny. Despite patriotic calls to cut all trade ties with Turkey, these traders are continuing to import and sell Turkish apples in large quantities.

Turkey’s open support to Pakistan during the recent conflict has caused significant diplomatic and public backlash in India. As a result, citizens across the country have been actively participating in the #BoycottTurkey trend, urging both the government and private businesses to suspend ties with the country. However, economic interest appears to outweigh national sentiment for some traders.

A visit to Machua Fruit Market — one of the biggest wholesale fruit markets in India — reveals the ground reality. Containers filled with Turkish apples are being unloaded and stored in large quantities. These apples are not only being displayed openly but are also moving rapidly through wholesale and retail networks. Hundreds of boxes can be seen stacked in cold storage at Maniktala's Jai Hind Cold Storage and Shrirampur units.

Traders in the market claim that Turkish apples account for nearly 50% of the current supply, especially after the Indian apple season concluded. With apples from America, New Zealand, Poland, and Turkey filling the market, Turkish imports remain dominant due to established trade routes and pricing advantages.

Businessmen justify their actions by citing economic necessity. “We are traders, not politicians,” said one of the sellers, pointing out that Indian apples are seasonal and international imports are essential for year-round supply. However, many citizens argue that national interest should come before profit, especially when the political climate is charged.

While many markets across India have shown solidarity by pulling Turkish goods from shelves, the situation in Kolkata remains controversial. The incident has triggered sharp responses on social media and renewed calls for government regulation of imports from politically sensitive nations.