They joined the boycott call: Major drop in arrivals to Turkey

Tensions between India and Pakistan rose rapidly after India bombed Pakistan on May 7. During a period when the possibility of war was being discussed, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan spoke with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Following the meeting, Turkey announced that it stood in solidarity with Pakistan. Ankara also stated that it was ready for diplomatic contacts to prevent the escalation of tension.

CALL FOR BOYCOTT FROM INDIA

Reacting to Turkey's statements, India made statements targeting Ankara and called for a travel boycott. This call showed its effect in a short time.

SHARP DROP IN ARRIVALS TO TURKEY

The Indian boycott particularly affected the tourism sector. According to official data, the number of Indian tourists coming to Turkey in July 2025 fell by 43.74 percent compared to the previous year.

In July 2023, 24 thousand 704 Indian tourists (including transit passengers) had visited Turkey.

In July 2024, this figure rose to 28 thousand 875.

However, in July 2025, the number of visitors remained at only 16 thousand 244.

SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGNS AND THY BOYCOTT

Anti-Turkey social media campaigns intensified among the Indian public. Turkish Airlines also received its share of the boycott calls.

AZERBAIJAN ALSO TARGETED

The boycott was not limited to Turkey. The Indian public also showed a reaction toward Azerbaijan. While 28 thousand 315 Indians visited Azerbaijan in June 2024, this number fell to 9 thousand 934 in June 2025.

News Source: 12punto