New Zealand

Indian exporters in various sectors like agriculture, petroleum, pharma, apparel, electronics and auto have potential not only to scale up shipments to New Zealand but also help the island nation reduce its dependence on China. According to think tank GTRI, in 2024-25, New Zealand imported goods worth over USD 10 billion from China compared to just USD 711 million from New Delhi. Wellington's total imports in that fiscal year were USD 50 billion. GTRI's report stated that opportunities exist for various Indian sectors to increase penetration in the island nation, given a bilateral free trade agreement. The sectors with potential include processed foods and agri-linked products, petroleum products and industrial chemicals, pharmaceuticals and healthcare, plastics, rubber and consumer goods, textiles and apparel, electronics and electrical equipment, automobiles and transport equipment, aerospace and high-value manufacturing, furniture and lighting. India is a significant global ...

If utilised well, the India-New Zealand FTA will strengthen trade, investments and economic relations between the two countries

New Zealand has taken a binding commitment under its Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India to amend its laws within 18 months of the pact's implementation to facilitate the geographical indication (GI) registration of Indian goods besides wines, and spirits in the island nation. The current GI law of New Zealand only allows India's wines and spirits to be registered. A GI, a type of an intellectual property right, is primarily an agricultural, natural or manufactured product (handicrafts and industrial goods) originating from a definite geographical territory. Typically, such a name conveys an assurance of quality and distinctiveness, which is essentially attributable to the place of its origin. Once a product gets a GI tag, any person or company cannot sell a similar item under that name. Its other benefits include legal protection to that item, prevention against unauthorised use by others, and promoting exports. "Commitment is now in place to taking all steps necessary includin

Quota-based duty concessions granted by India to New Zealand for apples, kiwifruit, and Manuka honey are linked to the delivery of agriculture productivity action plans committed by the island country under the free trade agreement. The implementation of the plans will be monitored by a Joint Agriculture Productivity Council (JAPC). According to the pact, the move is aimed at balancing market access with protection of sensitive domestic agricultural sectors. New Zealand has agreed on focused action plans for kiwifruit, apples, and honey to improve productivity, quality, and sectoral capabilities in India. The cooperation includes the establishment of centres of excellence, improved planting material, capacity building for growers, technical support for orchard management, post-harvest practices, supply chains, and food safety. Projects for premium apple cultivators and sustainable beekeeping practices will enhance production and quality standards in India. "All tariff rate quotas

Political tensions flare in Wellington as New Zealand First opposes the trade deal's immigration concessions, citing concerns over local job security and long-term demographic shifts

Provisions related to the services sector in the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) will open up significant opportunities for highly skilled Indian professionals in areas such as information technology, designers, engineering, manufacturing, education and healthcare, members of the Indian diaspora in Auckland said. Negotiations for the FTA have been concluded and after completion of domestic approvals, it is expected to be implemented from next year. The trade deal will give India tariff-free access to the island nation's markets, bring in USD 20 billion of investment over the next 15 years and will give India more temporary employment visas, easier access for pharmaceuticals and medical devices. Auckland-based computer engineer Rani Singh said the pact is a timely move, especially for the technology and services sector. "While trade agreements are often discussed in terms of goods, this one feels particularly relevant to professionals like me because of its focus on ...

The free trade agreement (FTA) between India and New Zealand will help diversify exports, and attract investments in areas like agriculture, experts said. The conclusion of negotiations for the pact was announced on December 22. It is likely to be signed and implemented next year. India and New Zealand on Monday said they have concluded talks on a free trade deal that will give India tariff-free access to the island nation's markets, bring in USD 20 billion of investment over the next 15 years and help double bilateral trade in goods and services the next five years to USD 5 billion. Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) President S C Ralhan said upon entry into force, the free trade agreement (FTA) will provide zero-duty access on 100 per cent of India's exports, with tariff elimination across all tariff lines or product categories. "It will enhance the competitiveness of Indian products in the New Zealand market and provide a major boost to employment-generating sector

India and New Zealand have concluded a free trade agreement after nine months of negotiations. The deal offers zero-duty access for all Indian exports,opens new visa pathways for skilled professionals

Wellington commits to $20 bn FDI in 15 years; dairy items excluded

The deal includes sweeping tariff cuts, expanded services access, enhanced labour mobility and a long-term investment commitment

India and New Zealand have concluded a Free Trade Agreement after nine months of talks; the deal cuts tariffs, boosts trade, opens jobs and creates new visa routes for Indian professionals

The India-New Zealand FTA promises $20 billion investment over 15 years, zero-duty access for Indian exports and a new capped skilled visa pathway for Indian professionals

Once signed, this deal will mark India's seventh trade agreement since 2021 and a part of its diversification strategy at a time when global trade is up for a major reset

Visa application centre service charges will be higher from January, adding to upfront costs for applicants from India and other countries

New Zealand's new seasonal visas aim to speed up hiring in sectors such as horticulture, meat processing, seafood, and dairy roles like calf rearers and oyster farm workers

Global hiring needs are expanding, creating fresh opportunities for skilled workers

From November 3, international students in New Zealand can work up to 25 hours a week under the government's International Education Going for Growth Plan, alongside new visa rules for dependents

The proposed free trade agreement between India and New Zealand is expected to enhance trade flows, deepen investment linkages and strengthen supply-chain resilience, the commerce ministry said on Saturday. It may also provide greater predictability and market access for businesses in both countries, it said. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal was here to give an impetus to the trade pact negotiations with his New Zealand counterpart Todd McClay. The fourth round of negotiations on the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) concluded on November 7, in Auckland and Rotorua. The ministers "acknowledged the steady progress made during this round and reaffirmed their commitment to work towards a modern, comprehensive, and future-ready FTA," it said. Both delegations held detailed engagements across key tracks, including trade in goods, trade in services, economic and trade cooperation, and rules of origin. "The ongoing discussions reflect the shared resolve of both nat

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal is visiting New Zealand to review the progress of the ongoing negotiations for the proposed trade pact, an official statement said. Goyal, will be in Auckland on November 5 to engage in discussions with Todd McClay, Minister for Trade of New Zealand, on the ongoing FTA (Free Trade Agreement) negotiations. "The visit reflects the shared commitment of both countries to expedite the FTA process and build a more comprehensive and mutually beneficial economic partnership," the commerce ministry said. The fourth round of India-New Zealand FTA negotiations commenced in Auckland on November 3 with an aim to strengthen bilateral trade and economic ties between the two nations, it said. During the visit, Goyal will participate in a series of engagements aimed at strengthening trade, investment, and innovation linkages between India and New Zealand. "These include a dedicated interaction with prominent members of the New Zealand business community

Officials of India and New Zealand on Monday started the fourth round of negotiations in Auckland for the proposed free trade agreement, the commerce ministry said. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal will reach Auckland this week to meet his New Zealand counterpart Todd McClay to review the progress of the negotiations. "The Fourth Round (November 3-7, 2025) of negotiations for the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) commenced today (Monday) in Auckland, New Zealand," the ministry said in a statement. Negotiations in this round are focusing on key areas, including trade in goods and services, and Rules of Origin. "Both sides are working constructively to build on the progress achieved in earlier rounds, to reach convergence on outstanding issues and move towards the early conclusion of the FTA," it said. The FTA negotiations was formally launched on March 16, 2025. The third round of negotiations for the agreement concluded on September 19 in Queenstown, New ...