AICWA Imposes Total Ban on Turkey for Film Shoots in Wake of India-Pakistan Dispute

May 15, 2025: Two of India’s most influential film industry bodies — the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) and the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) — have announced a complete boycott of Turkey for all film shoots and cultural collaborations. The decision follows Turkey’s continued diplomatic support for Pakistan amid recent India-Pakistan tensions.

In an official statement released earlier this week, AICWA declared an immediate ban on shooting Indian films in Turkey. “No Bollywood or Indian films will be shot in Turkey, effective immediately,” the statement read. The association, which represents a wide range of professionals including workers, technicians, and artists from the Indian film industry, emphasized that no producers, production houses, directors, or financiers will be permitted to take any film, television, or digital content projects to the Middle Eastern country.

The decision is reportedly in response to Turkey’s consistent public alignment with Pakistan on key geopolitical issues concerning India. The announcement comes shortly after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan reiterated support for Pakistan — a move that sparked strong criticism from Indian citizens and film industry members alike.

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Echoing AICWA’s stance, FWICE — which represents 36 crafts of film and television workers — issued its own statement on May 14. “The Federation strongly urges all Indian film producers to reconsider choosing Turkey as a shooting destination in light of its growing support towards Pakistan on matters that deeply concern India’s national interests,” the statement read.

“FWICE has always stood firm in its belief that ‘Nation Comes First.’ In view of recent developments and Turkey’s consistent positioning in support of Pakistan, we believe it is not in the best interests of the Indian film industry to invest or collaborate in any form that could indirectly support or benefit such a nation,” the organization added.

Both AICWA and FWICE have appealed to all producers, actors, directors, and crew members across the Indian film fraternity to stand in solidarity and refrain from working in or with Turkey until the nation revises its diplomatic stance.

The developments mark a significant shift in international filming preferences for Indian cinema, as Turkey had previously become a popular destination for movie shoots due to its scenic landscapes, production incentives, and cultural ties.

As of now, there has been no official response from the Turkish government regarding the boycott.