Delhi fruit traders to halt apple imports from Turkey

Fruit traders in Delhi to halt apple imports from Turkey Azadpur Mandi, Asia’s largest wholesale market for fruits and vegetables, has announced it will no longer import apples from Turkey, citing the current diplomatic strain between the two countries.

Meetha Ram Kriplani, chairman of Azadpur Fruit Mandi, confirmed the decision, stating that while previously placed orders will still be honoured, no fresh consignments of apples or other produce from Turkey will be entertained going forward.

“This decision was taken after a careful review of the situation. Turkish apples have been an important part of our imports, but under the current circumstances, we cannot continue trade as usual,” Kriplani said.

He noted that Azadpur Mandi has historically been a major importer of Turkish apples, with volumes reaching 1.16 lakh tonnes in 2024. However, he said recent developments in Turkey’s posture towards India had caused deep disappointment among traders.

“We have supported Turkish trade for years, but recent events have left us with no option but to reconsider our sourcing strategy,” he added.

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The move marks a significant shift for the mandi, which is now looking to alternative countries to meet its apple demand in the coming months.

Meanwhile, traders across Delhi have staged protests, calling for a blanket ban on the import and sale of Turkish goods. Various traders’ associations have issued statements condemning Turkey’s recent political stance towards India, calling it “unacceptable” and “deeply hurtful to national sentiments.”

(With inputs from PTI)