Pune Fruit Traders Boycott Turkish Apples in Support of Indian Farmers
Pune, May 12, 2025 — In a powerful display of support for Indian farmers, fruit traders across Pune have begun a full-scale boycott of Turkish apples, citing Turkey’s recent diplomatic positions, which many in India view as unfriendly and against national interests.
The protest, spearheaded by leading fruit trader associations in the city, involves a complete stoppage of stocking and selling Turkish apples, which were previously popular among Pune’s fruit markets. The traders say the move is not just political but also economic—aimed at boosting the sale of Indian-grown apples and other fruits.
“We want to stand with our farmers in Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, and Kashmir,” said a vendor from Pune’s Gultekdi Fruit Market. “Indian apples are not only fresher and more affordable, but they also contribute directly to our economy.”
The impact of the boycott is already visible in key markets such as Mandai and Gultekdi, where Turkish apples have been pulled from shelves. In their place, locally produced apples and seasonal fruits like pomegranates are now taking center stage. Traders are also educating customers about the advantages of buying domestic produce—citing improved quality, economic patriotism, and support for local livelihoods.
Shoppers in Pune appear to be responding positively to the shift. “Buying local is the least we can do for our farmers,” said Aarti Deshmukh, a frequent visitor to Mandai. “The apples I bought were fresh and crisp, and knowing they came from Indian orchards made the purchase feel more meaningful.”
The move echoes a growing national sentiment of agricultural self-reliance and reduced reliance on imports from nations with strained relations with India. This trend is further supported by government efforts to boost local fruit production and expand export markets, such as India’s increasing shipments of pomegranates to the United States.
For farmers in Maharashtra—many of whom are battling unpredictable weather, price fluctuations, and mounting debts—the increased demand for local produce brings much-needed relief. At the same time, the promotion of regional fruits like pomegranates also helps revive traditional consumption, valued for their nutritional, cultural, and Ayurvedic significance.
Today, Pune’s fruit markets are filled with a vibrant variety of locally harvested apples and seasonal fruits, offering consumers not only superior freshness due to shorter travel distances but also a chance to directly contribute to the well-being of Indian farmers.
