BWCMA Suspends Textile Trade with Turkey and Azerbaijan Citing Support for Pakistan

Bengaluru Merchants Halt Imports and Exports Citing Ethical and National Concerns​

Bengaluru, May 17 – In a significant move reflecting rising nationalist sentiments within India's business community, the Bangalore Wholesale Cloth Merchants Association (BWCMA) has immediately suspended all textile imports and exports involving Turkey and Azerbaijan. The decision, made unanimously by the association, comes in response to the two nations' recent expressions of support for Pakistan following 'Operation Sindoor'.

BWCMA President Prakash Pirgal issued a formal statement outlining the reasons behind the boycott.

“This collective action has been taken after careful deliberation and in alignment with our commitment to ethical business practices, national sentiment, and the interests of our trade community. As responsible stakeholders in the textile trade sector, we believe it is essential to take principled stands when necessary,” Pirgal said.

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Trade Ban Terms and Scope​

According to the association, the resolution includes:

• A complete halt on current and future imports of textile products from Turkey and Azerbaijan.
• A cessation of exports to both countries.
• A prohibition on indirect trade involving intermediaries or third-party nations linked to textile goods from or destined for the two countries.

Pirgal confirmed that the decision will remain in effect until further notice, and BWCMA's governing body will communicate any changes.

Trade Value Runs into Crores​

BWCMA, representing nearly 3,000 wholesale textile shops across Bengaluru, maintains substantial trade relations with Turkey and Azerbaijan. Though exact figures were not disclosed, Pirgal acknowledged that business volumes run into crores of rupees.

“These two countries have openly supported Pakistan following 'Operation Sindoor'. We stand with the Government of India. The country comes first,” Pirgal stated.
“Remember, when there was an earthquake in Turkey, India was one of the first to respond. But now, they have chosen to support a nation that sponsors terror against our people.”

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Appeal to Stakeholders​

The association has requested full cooperation from all concerned authorities, trade partners, logistics providers, and other stakeholders in adhering to this trade suspension.

The decision marks a bold stance by Bengaluru’s textile traders amid growing calls for economic responses to geopolitical alignments unfavorable to India.