Daijiworld Media Network – Vashi

Vashi, May 16: In a strong statement of solidarity with national sentiment, traders at Maharashtra’s Vashi Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) have decided to halt all imports of Turkish apples in protest against Turkey's support to Pakistan amid recent terror attacks in Kashmir.

The market, known for handling hundreds of containers of premium Turkish apples annually, will no longer engage in trade with Turkey, said fruit trader Vijay Bhende. “We cannot be doing business with a country that is openly opposed to India. The Net Marketing Margin was good, but patriotism comes first,” he said.

India imported nearly 11.76 lac tonnes of Turkish apples last year, valued at over Rs 1,000 cr. However, the ongoing diplomatic tensions have prompted a collective decision among traders to boycott further imports. “No more orders will be placed. This will hit Turkey hard and send a clear message,” Bhende added.

To fill the gap, traders are now shifting focus to imports from South Africa and Washington. However, some traders, who had already paid for shipments prior to the decision, are finding ways to offload their existing Turkish stock. “Some are even trying to pass off Turkish apples as South African due to retailer hesitation,” said a trader on condition of anonymity.

Despite such tactics, most retailers can distinguish the sweeter Turkish apples. Prices have also been slashed to move unsold stock, traders confirmed.