Cites Unfriendly Stance in Indo-Pak Conflict and Economic Dependence as Key Reasons
New Delhi, May 12 — The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) on Monday made a strong appeal to more than 700 business organisations in the national capital to cease all trade engagements with China and Turkey, citing their support for rival positions in the ongoing Indo-Pak conflict.CTI Chairman Brijesh Goyal highlighted China's significant commercial gains from Indian markets despite its adversarial diplomatic stance. "China benefits significantly from Indian markets, with its products widely used in businesses across the country. Despite this, it continues to take an unfriendly stance. It is time to reconsider our economic dependence on such nations," Goyal said.
He also called for a gradual reduction in trade relations with Turkey, pointing out that the country earns considerable revenue from Indian tourism.
India's Contribution to Turkey's Economy
According to CTI, nearly 2.75 million Indian tourists visited Turkey in 2024, contributing to a bilateral trade volume of USD 12.5 billion. Goyal stressed the importance of strategic economic decisions, especially when national interests are at stake.Call for Immediate Policy Action
CTI General Secretary Gurmeet Arora echoed the chairman's concerns and urged the government to impose an immediate ban on Chinese imports. "Allowing Chinese companies access to Indian markets while tensions persist is not in the country's best interest," he stated.The chamber also flagged issues related to the lack of proper labelling on imported goods, raising concerns about transparency and compliance.
As tensions continue in the geopolitical landscape, CTI’s call to reassess trade ties with China and Turkey signals growing sentiment among Indian business leaders to prioritise national security and economic sovereignty.