India–New Zealand Sign Landmark Trade Deal to Boost Exports

India and New Zealand have signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), marking a significant step in strengthening economic ties. The deal is expected to provide a strong boost to India’s exports. A key highlight of the agreement is the removal of import duties on Indian goods entering New Zealand. This will make Indian products more competitive and affordable in that market.

Negotiations that began in March last year were concluded within nine months. The agreement was formally signed in New Delhi by India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and New Zealand’s Trade Minister Todd McClay. It is expected to come into effect later this year. Sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, footwear, gems and jewellery, and agriculture are likely to benefit the most, as earlier tariffs of up to 10% will now be eliminated.

The agreement is also expected to attract investments worth around ₹1.88 lakh crore from New Zealand into India. Additionally, it will create more job opportunities for Indian professionals in sectors like IT, healthcare, and engineering, with possible relaxations in visa regulations.