New Zealand and India have formally ratified the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, marking the start of an exciting new chapter in a growing relationship.
Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay exchanged formal documents with India’s High Commissioner to New Zealand, H.E. Ms Muanpuii Saiawi, in Parliament, confirming that New Zealand has completed all its necessary domestic procedures.
McClay said the New Zealand-India FTA will level the playing field and unlock access for Kiwi businesses in one of the world's fastest-growing markets. As global markets become more uncertain, it has never been more important for New Zealand exporters to diversify, build resilience and pursue new opportunities.
The FTA offers substantial benefits. Fifty-seven percent of New Zealand exports to India will be tariff-free on day one, including sheep meat, wool and coal exports, as well as over 95 percent of forestry and wood exports.
Bringing it into force quickly means exporters will benefit from a second round of tariff cuts on 1 January 2027. Exporters will also benefit from preferential quota access into India for New Zealand albumins, apples and kiwifruit.
“It is a great result for New Zealand businesses and for 1.4 billion Indian consumers," said McClay.
"Beyond new market access, the deal offers more certainty for our services exporters, for investors, and for Kiwi businesses looking to increase their footprint in India.”
The FTA will enter into force on the 20th of October 2026.
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