Udaipur : In a significant development driven by national interest, marble traders from Udaipur, one of India’s key marble hubs, have decided to terminate all trade relations with Türkiye, citing the latter’s diplomatic alignment with Pakistan. The move follows Türkiye’s public support for Pakistan amid rising tensions with India, prompting strong reactions from the Indian business community.
Türkiye Support for Pakistan Triggers Nationwide Boycott
The decision, led by the Udaipur Marble Association and the Udaipur Marble Processors Committee, comes in response to Türkiye’s perceived support for Pakistan, a country often criticized in India for harboring anti-India sentiments. According to traders, continuing imports from a nation backing India’s adversary is against the spirit of national interest.
“A friend of the enemy is also an enemy,” said Pankaj Gangawat, President of the Udaipur Marble Association. “Our trade relations with Türkiye were longstanding and economically fruitful, but the current geopolitical climate does not permit us to continue.”
Granite Imports from Türkiye Banned Voluntarily
India imports a substantial quantity of green and granite marble from Türkiye, accounting for nearly 70% of total marble imports annually, valued at over ₹2,500 crore. Udaipur alone imports thousands of tons of granite marble each year. However, with the collective decision of over 50 major marble traders, these imports have now been voluntarily suspended.
Kapil Surana, President of the Udaipur Marble Processors Committee, emphasized that the decision was unanimous. “We have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi demanding a complete nationwide ban on marble trade with Türkiye, as well as restrictions on tourism and other commercial exchanges.”
Economic Impact and Appeal to Government
The traders acknowledged that the boycott would lead to significant short-term losses, but stressed that national interest outweighs commercial gain. They believe that such an economic stand will also send a strong message to Türkiye, potentially impacting its export earnings from India.
Hitesh Patel, General Secretary of the Processors Committee, noted, “Unless Türkiye reverses its support for Pakistan, the boycott will continue. We are united in this decision.”
Udaipur: India’s Marble Capital Takes the Lead
Udaipur, located in the Mewar region of Rajasthan, is renowned for its marble industry and exports. The city plays a crucial role in India’s natural stone trade. The decision by its trader community is expected to influence other regions engaged in similar imports and could mark the beginning of a larger industry-wide movement.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.