India and New Zealand Sign Landmark Free Trade Agreement
PM Modi Welcomes India–New Zealand FTA, Luxon Calls It 'Historic Milestone'
News 18
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as a pivotal moment for bilateral relations. The FTA will grant zero-duty access to over 8,000 Indian products and aims to boost cooperation in sectors like agriculture and technology, with New Zealand committing $20 billion in investments.
- 01The India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement grants zero-duty access to 8,284 Indian products.
- 02New Zealand will invest $20 billion in India over the next 15 years.
- 03The agreement aims to enhance cooperation in agriculture, technology, and manufacturing.
- 04A new visa pathway will allow 1,667 skilled Indian workers to work in New Zealand annually.
- 05Sensitive sectors in India, including dairy and sugar, will remain protected from foreign competition.
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On April 27, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the signing of the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA), heralding it as a landmark moment in bilateral relations. The agreement allows zero-duty access for 8,284 Indian product categories to the New Zealand market, enhancing competitiveness for Indian goods. Key sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture are expected to see significant growth as tariffs, which previously reached up to 10%, are eliminated. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon emphasized the strategic importance of the FTA, which includes a commitment of $20 billion in investments from New Zealand over the next 15 years, targeting infrastructure and renewable energy. The agreement also introduces a new visa pathway for 1,667 skilled Indian workers annually, promoting job opportunities abroad while protecting sensitive sectors in India like dairy and edible oils from foreign competition. Both leaders expressed optimism about the future of their partnership.
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The FTA is expected to significantly boost Indian exports, making goods more affordable and competitive in New Zealand. Farmers and industries in key sectors will benefit from increased demand and investment, while skilled workers will have better job opportunities.
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