India New Zealand Business Council Welcomes Landmark NZ–India Free Trade Agreement

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India New Zealand Business Council Welcomes Landmark NZ–India Free Trade Agreement 

The India New Zealand Business Council (INZBC) warmly welcomes the announcement of the New Zealand–India Free Trade Agreement (FTA), a milestone that marks a new era of partnership and opportunity for both nations. 

INZBC Chair Edwin Paul says the agreement reduces tariffs on 95% of New Zealand’s exports – among the highest of any Indian FTA - and opens new opportunities for trade, investment, and innovation across horticulture, lamb, apples and wine, while acknowledging a disappointing outcome for dairy with no substantive new access. 

“We’re thrilled to see many New Zealand exporters on an equal or better footing than our global competitors across sectors, with greater access to India’s rapidly expanding middle class.  

“This agreement is the result of years of hard work and commitment from governments and the business communities in both countries coming together for a common goal of shared prosperity.” 

This agreement is not just about market access—it’s about building enduring partnerships that benefit both nations. Collaboration projects are planned in kiwifruit, apples and honey under the Horticulture Memorandum of Cooperation, which was signed during the Prime Minister’s delegation to India earlier this year.  

“The Council acknowledges the hard work of New Zealand and India negotiators and the drive and commitment of both Trade Ministers - Hon Todd McClay and Hon Piyush Goyal - to getting us here now. 

INZBC also acknowledges the significant work of our member, Zespri, in supporting the delivery of this FTA. 

“INZBC has been clear about the importance of building the overall relationship and showing a clear value proposition to India to grow our trading relationship, and Zespri has been at the forefront of this. Zespri has been working alongside the Biosciences Economy Institute for several years on an opportunity for a mutually beneficial partnership between the Indian and New Zealand kiwifruit industries, helping to create a platform for the relationship and to build support in India.  

“These partnerships will help ensure the relationship between India and New Zealand continues to strengthen, and it is encouraging to see such a strong outcome for that sector in the FTA,” says Mr Paul. 

The FTA sets the stage for deeper collaboration across sectors, from horticulture to technology, education, and beyond. It is a testament to the strength of the India–New Zealand relationship and the ambitious plans for a shared prosperous future.” 

The INZBC Board extends its congratulations to the governments of New Zealand and India, industry partners, and all those who contributed to this historic achievement. INZBC looks forward to supporting members and stakeholders as they seize the new opportunities created by the FTA. 

About the India New Zealand Business Council (INZBC) 

The India New Zealand Business Council is the premier trade advocacy organisation for India–New Zealand business relations. Established in 1988, INZBC works with industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to promote trade, investment, and strategic collaboration between the two countries. With over 200 members representing a broad cross-section of goods and services industries, INZBC plays a vital role in shaping the future of bilateral economic engagement. 

Media Contact: 

Sunil Kaushal, Chief Executive  

India New Zealand Business Council 

Email: sunil@inzbc.org 

Phone/WhatsApp: +64 21 280 4189