Turkish goods off shelves in city over support to Pak

Lucknow: Amid nationwide economic backlash against Turkiye gaining traction in the country, consumer and trader boycotts have hit Turkish goods hard in Lucknow too.Turkiye is facing massive backlash for supporting Pakistan amid tensions with India. Pakistan had also used Turkish drones on a large scale in the military conflict with India.Markets that once thrived on Turkish imports are experiencing a significant decline in demand, reflecting a shift in consumer behaviour amid the diplomatic fallout. Items like dry fruits, wrinkle-free clothing, imported Turkish apples and home appliances from brands such as Vico are being removed from shelves as consumers are prefering domestic alternatives. Even Turkish jewellery, once a favourite among local retailers, is now facing rejection. State president of the UP Kapda Udyog Vyapaar Pratinidhi Mandal, Ashok Motiyani, said, "This boycott is a reflection of the strong patriotic sentiment that exists among traders and consumers in Uttar Pradesh. Turkish products, which once had a loyal customer base due to their quality and variety, are now facing rejection because the people here want to send a clear message. Supporting imports from a country seen as siding with Pakistan is not acceptable to us.""Earlier, Turkish goods, especially dry fruits and flexible fabric clothing, were in great demand. However, now there is a noticeable shift. Customers are becoming more aware and are actively inquiring about the origin of products. Many outrightly refuse to purchase Turkish brands... We have clearly understood this sentiment and have started stocking more Indian-made products to meet the rising demand," said Mahanagar president of the Akhil Bhartiya Udyog Vyapaar Mandal, Suresh Chhablani."Many shops have stopped placing orders for Turkish dry fruits, apples and even jewellery. Vico brand appliances, which were once considered premium imports, have also taken a hit. Retailers are no longer interested in stocking or promoting them. It's a conscious and collective decision among traders to support the national cause," said president of the Bhootnath Vyapar Mandal, Devendra Gupta.Kaushal Kishore Kesarwani, owner of Badri Saraf, Bhootnath market, said: "The Bhootnath Vyapaar Mandal has collectively decided to boycott all Turkish imports, whether it's jewellery, dry fruits or appliances. We believe every trader should act with the same sense of responsibility."(With inputs from Pratyusha Srivastav, Varun Bhatt and Rishita Mishra)