The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), the apex body representing Indian traders, has called for a complete boycott of travel to Turkey and Azerbaijan in response to their open support for Pakistan. CAIT has urged Indian citizens and the travel and tourism sector to refrain from visiting these two countries as a strong protest against their stance against India. This call comes as an extension of CAIT’s long-running campaign to boycott Chinese products.
Praveen Khandelwal, CAIT’s National Secretary General, stated that a collective refusal by Indian citizens to travel to Turkey and Azerbaijan would significantly impact the economies of both countries, particularly their tourism sectors. Referring to 2024 data, he pointed out that Turkey received 62.2 million international tourists last year, including approximately 300,000 from India—a 20.7% rise from 2023. Indian tourists reportedly spend an average of $972 each, amounting to around $291.6 million in revenue for Turkey. Khandelwal emphasized that a travel boycott could directly cost Turkey this amount, with additional losses expected from cancellations of Indian weddings, corporate events, and cultural functions.
Regarding Azerbaijan, CAIT noted that the country received about 2.6 million foreign tourists in 2024, including around 250,000 from India. With an average Indian tourist spending 2,170 AZN (roughly $1,276), the estimated contribution of Indian tourists to Azerbaijan’s economy stood at approximately $308.6 million. A boycott would, therefore, result in significant losses, particularly in segments such as leisure, adventure, and destination events.
CAIT added that such an economic impact could force both nations to reconsider their diplomatic stances toward India. A travel boycott would also lead to reduced cultural exchanges and hurt local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and related service providers.
CAIT Gujarat Chairman Pramod Bhagat stressed that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India is strong and resolute. He said that India’s sovereignty and integrity cannot be undermined and that Indian traders are ready to support the nation’s interests in every way. A unified travel boycott, he emphasized, would not only apply economic pressure but also deliver a strong political message that may compel Turkey and Azerbaijan to re-evaluate their positions on India.
