The India–New Zealand free trade agreement (FTA) came into force on October 20, marking what New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon described as an important day for exporters.
According to the announcement, the pact provides zero-duty access for all Indian exports from the first day of implementation, and is aimed at strengthening trade and broader economic relations between the two countries.
In a social media post, Luxon said the agreement was shaped through joint work with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and would support economic growth on both sides. He added that New Zealand-made products would be able to reach a large base of new customers in India at lower tariffs.
Luxon also said the deal is expected to help New Zealand businesses sell more, hire more people and invest further, leading to more job opportunities, higher wages and increased incomes for New Zealanders.
Calling India one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, he said goods shipped from ports such as Auckland would now be able to enter the Indian market at reduced duties, underlining why New Zealand pursues such trade agreements.
