India New Zealand: From Agreement to Business
The New Zealand India Free Trade Agreement will enter into force on 20 October 2026.
This moves the relationship from negotiation to implementation, and businesses on both sides now need to focus on how to use the agreement commercially.
From 20 October, tariffs on 57% of New Zealand’s current exports to India will be eliminated immediately. This rises to 82% once the agreement is fully implemented, with a further 13% of current exports benefiting from significant tariff reductions.
For INZBC members already trading with India, sourcing from India, providing services, investing, or considering market entry, we encourage you to start preparing now.
Key steps for businesses
Check whether your products or services are covered by the FTA and when the relevant tariff reductions take effect.
Confirm the correct tariff classification and rules of origin for your products.
Review the documentation required to claim preferential tariff treatment.
Check customs, labelling, regulatory and certification requirements in both markets.
Speak with your importer, distributor, customs broker or in market partner before 20 October.
Review your pricing and margins. A tariff reduction does not automatically create a commercial advantage unless it is reflected in your market strategy.
Consider whether the FTA changes the business case for entering India, expanding into another Indian state, sourcing from India, or developing new partnerships.
The agreement also goes beyond tariffs. It includes measures covering customs procedures, services, investment, movement of professionals, education and wider economic cooperation. Indian Customs has committed to releasing goods within 48 hours, and to endeavour to release perishable goods and express consignments within 24 hours.
Useful FTA resources
MFAT New Zealand India FTA information:
MFAT Tariff Finder:
NZTE: What the NZ India FTA means for exporters:
NZTE India Market Guide:
NZTE India programme:
Government announcement:
India Trade Portal
INZBC’s role
The FTA creates the framework. Businesses will still need market knowledge, trusted relationships and the right partners to turn preferential access into actual trade.
INZBC has worked across the New Zealand India business relationship since 1988. As implementation begins, we will continue to connect members with businesses, government agencies, industry organisations and partners in India and New Zealand. We will also provide practical information and events focused on how companies can use the agreement.
If your business is considering India, expanding its existing presence, looking for an Indian partner, or trying to understand how the FTA may affect you, please contact the INZBC team.
The agreement opens the door. The next stage is about businesses walking through it.
