In the fiscal year 2023-24, India imported nuclear reactor components worth $311 million from Turkey, making it one of the top imports from Ankara, according to a special trade review report by the India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF) . This significant import volume has come under scrutiny amid evolving geopolitical dynamics and long-standing complexities in India-Turkey relations.
Geopolitical Tensions Prompt Policy Reevaluation
The revelation of substantial imports from Turkey coincides with heightened diplomatic tensions between the two nations. Turkey’s recent support for Pakistan, particularly its condemnation of India’s military actions in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor, has strained bilateral ties . In response, the Indian government has initiated a comprehensive reassessment of all past engagements with Turkey, including imports, exports, technology sharing, and other bilateral agreements. A senior officer from the Ministry of Commerce emphasized that any association not aligning with national interests will be reconsidered, regardless of its economic or strategic value .
Economic Implications and Trade Dynamics
India’s total imports from Turkey stood at $3.78 billion in FY24, with nuclear reactor parts constituting a significant portion of this trade . However, the recent geopolitical developments have led to a decline in bilateral trade. Between April and February of FY25, India’s exports to Turkey were valued at $5.21 billion, marking a year-on-year decline of nearly 15%, while Turkey’s exports to India totaled $2.84 billion, down 17.25% from FY24
The Indian government has also taken concrete steps to curtail Turkish business operations within the country. Notably, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) revoked the permit of Çelebi Ground Handling India Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of Turkey’s Çelebi Aviation Holding, citing national security concerns
Public Sentiment and Boycott Movements
The geopolitical tensions have sparked nationwide calls in India to boycott Turkish goods and avoid traveling to Turkey. Organizations like the Swadeshi Jagaran Manch (SJM), affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), have launched campaigns urging Indians to shun Turkish products and tourism . These movements reflect a broader public sentiment against Turkey’s perceived support for Pakistan and its stance on issues sensitive to India.
Strategic Considerations for the Future
The intersection of significant nuclear imports and strained diplomatic relations underscores the complexities of India’s foreign trade policies. As the government reassesses its engagements with Turkey, there is a growing emphasis on aligning economic activities with national security interests. This situation may prompt India to diversify its sources for critical imports like nuclear reactor components and reinforce its commitment to self-reliance in strategic sectors.Moneycontrol
