India has dealt a significant economic blow to Turkey following Ankara’s open support for Pakistan amid escalating India-Pakistan tensions. Industry experts estimate that Turkey has incurred losses of approximately Rs 770 crore due to cancellations in destination wedding tourism from India.
Turkey has increasingly become a preferred destination for Indian couples seeking destination weddings, with iconic locations such as Istanbul’s palaces and coastal resorts drawing large numbers of visitors. The average spending per wedding is estimated at over $3 million (around Rs 25 crore), with grand weddings costing up to $8 million (Rs 68 crore). This tourism segment contributes about $140 million annually to Turkey’s economy from Indian clientele.
However, recent calls for a boycott have led to around 2,000 cancellations by Indian tourists, including about 30 couples who scrapped planned wedding events in Turkey. These cancellations have resulted in an estimated $90 million (Rs 770 crore) revenue loss for Turkey. Additional income from local tours for wedding guests has also been adversely affected.
In response to Turkey’s support for Pakistan in the ongoing conflict, India is severing various trade and commercial ties with Turkey. Traders dealing in fruits, jewelry, and other imports have suspended shipments, signaling a wider economic disengagement between the two countries.