Zillar Barta Desk : New Zealand and India have formally ratified their Free Trade Agreement (FTA), marking a significant step in strengthening trade and economic ties between the two countries. The agreement will come into force on October 20, 2026, opening new opportunities for exporters and businesses in both markets.
The New Zealand government said the agreement will provide businesses with improved access to India’s large and growing consumer market. From the first day of implementation, 57% of New Zealand exports to India will become duty-free, including sheep meat, wool and coal, while more than 95% of forestry and wood exports will also receive duty-free access.
Once the agreement is fully implemented, tariffs will be eliminated or significantly reduced on 95% of New Zealand’s exports to India. The deal also provides preferential quota access for products including apples, kiwifruit and albumins. New Zealand officials said the agreement is expected to help exporters diversify their markets, strengthen business growth and create opportunities for higher incomes and employment.
The FTA was signed in New Delhi on April 27 by Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and New Zealand Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay. The agreement covers trade in goods and services, investment and wider economic cooperation.
The two countries currently have bilateral trade worth around NZ$3.95 billion. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has said the agreement is expected to support the countries' shared objective of significantly increasing two-way trade by 2030.
With the agreement now ratified by both countries, businesses are preparing to take advantage of the new market-access opportunities. The FTA is expected to deepen commercial ties between India and New Zealand while providing exporters with greater certainty and a broader platform for long-term growth.
