Azadpur Mandi, Asia’s largest wholesale hub for fruits and vegetables, has announced a complete halt to future imports of apples from Turkey, citing ongoing diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
Azadpur Fruit Mandi chairman Meetha Ram Kriplani confirmed the decision, stating, “We have decided to discontinue all new imports of apples from Turkey. While consignments ordered earlier will still arrive, no further trade in apples or other produce will take place going forward.”
Kriplani noted that Turkish apples have long been a staple at the mandi, with imports hitting 1.16 lakh tonnes in 2024 alone. However, he explained that recent developments in Turkey’s diplomatic approach toward India have prompted a reevaluation. “We have supported Turkish trade for years, but the current circumstances have left us with no choice,” he said.
This shift is expected to significantly impact sourcing strategies, as the mandi prepares to turn to alternative countries to meet the demand for apples in the coming months.
Meanwhile, trader associations across Delhi have echoed the move, demanding a broader ban on the import and marketing of Turkish products. A spokesperson from the association remarked, “Turkey’s recent political stance towards India is unacceptable and has hurt national sentiments.”
