India-New Zealand FTA Set to Launch by Late October, Offering Duty-Free Exports to Wellington
· Business · Times of India, Reuters
The India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is expected to become operational by late October 2026, with the exact date to be announced soon, according to Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal. The agreement, signed on April 27, 2026, will grant duty-free access to all Indian exports to New Zealand, eliminating tariffs of up to 10% on goods like ceramics, carpets, automobiles, and auto components. Two-way trade between the two nations reached NZ$3.95 billion in 2025, with New Zealand exporting NZ$2.03 billion worth of goods and services to India, including travel services, forestry, and horticulture products. India’s services exports to New Zealand grew by 13% in 2024, reaching US$634 million, while merchandise trade increased from US$855 million in 2015-16 to US$1.298 billion in 2024-25. New Zealand has also committed to investing USD 20 billion in India over 15 years, and the FTA includes a student mobility annex for the first time.
Why it matters
Indian exporters—particularly those in ceramics, textiles, automobiles, and auto components—will benefit directly from zero tariffs, boosting competitiveness in New Zealand’s market. Indian services sectors, including IT and travel, stand to gain from expanded trade opportunities, while New Zealand’s investment pledge could further strengthen economic ties. The agreement also opens pathways for Indian students and professionals under the new post-study work visa provisions.
Read the original report — Times of India
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