New Zealand and India reached a free trade agreement, both governments confirmed on Monday. The deal gives New Zealand exporters greater access to the world’s largest population and a rapidly expanding economy projected to reach NZ$12 trillion.
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Bilateral Free Trade Agreement: Economic Growth and Job Creation Highlighted
The agreement eliminates or reduces tariffs on 95% of New Zealand’s exports to India markets. The New Zealand government highlighted improved access to India’s expanding middle class consumer base nationwide. New Zealand will offer about 1,667 temporary work visas annually to address skilled labour shortages. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon described the gains as wide-ranging and significant for trade growth prospects.
He said India’s fast-growing economy will create new opportunities for jobs, exports and growth. The countries expect to sign the agreement in the first half of 2026. Trade Minister Todd McClay said the deal places New Zealand on equal or better footing with other trading partners and will deliver thousands of jobs and billions in exports. Parliamentary approval remains uncertain as coalition partner New Zealand First confirmed its opposition. Two-way trade totalled NZ$3.14 billion in 2024, dominated by pharmaceuticals from India and agricultural exports from New Zealand.
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