India and New Zealand Set to Sign Landmark Free Trade Agreement
India, New Zealand to ink ‘once in a generation’ free trade agreement today; enforcement later this year
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
India and New Zealand are poised to sign a significant free trade agreement (FTA) today, expected to come into effect later this year after parliamentary review in New Zealand. The pact aims to enhance trade access for both nations, with India offering zero-duty access for all goods and New Zealand committing $20 billion in investments over 15 years.
- 01The India-New Zealand FTA is described as a 'once in a generation' agreement.
- 02India will grant zero-duty access for all goods from New Zealand.
- 03New Zealand commits to a $20 billion investment in India over 15 years.
- 04The parliamentary review process in New Zealand will take at least six months.
- 05The agreement aims to boost trade in sectors like leather, engineering, and pharmaceuticals.
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India and New Zealand are set to sign a landmark free trade agreement (FTA) today, which is expected to come into effect later this year after undergoing parliamentary scrutiny in New Zealand. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon emphasized the significance of the agreement, calling it a 'once in a generation' opportunity for Kiwi exporters to access India's market of 1.4 billion people. The FTA will allow New Zealand to initiate a formal parliamentary treaty examination, which includes public consultation and is anticipated to take at least six months before ratification. Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted that the agreement will eliminate taxes and import duties on Indian goods entering New Zealand, benefiting sectors such as leather and handicrafts, particularly from Agra. Additionally, the agreement includes a proposed $20 billion investment commitment from New Zealand to India over the next 15 years. Under the terms, India will secure zero-duty access for all goods from New Zealand while allowing market access across 70.03% of tariff lines, covering 95% of New Zealand's exports. This agreement reflects the shared ambition of both nations to deepen their economic ties.
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The FTA is expected to significantly boost trade between India and New Zealand, enhancing market access for Indian goods and benefiting local industries such as leather and handicrafts.
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