India and New Zealand Conclude Landmark Free Trade Agreement
India and New Zealand have signed a landmark FTA providing zero-duty access on India’s exports, enhanced services market, student mobility, investment of USD 20B, and agricultural partnerships.
New Delhi: India and New Zealand have officially concluded negotiations for a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA), marking a major milestone in bilateral economic cooperation. Launched on 16 March 2025, the agreement was completed in record time, becoming one of India’s fastest-negotiated FTAs with a developed country.
The FTA provides zero-duty access on 100% of India’s exports, covering key sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, leather, engineering goods, agriculture, and marine products. India, in return, will liberalize tariffs on 70% of New Zealand’s products, covering 95% of bilateral trade.
Under the agreement, New Zealand has offered its best-ever services market access, covering 118 sectors including IT, professional services, education, tourism, construction, and telecommunications. India also gains commitments on student mobility, allowing post-study work visas for up to 3 years for STEM graduates and 4 years for doctoral scholars.
A Temporary Employment Entry visa quota has been set aside for 5,000 Indian professionals and 1,000 Work and Holiday visas, enhancing skilled talent mobility between the two nations.
The FTA also establishes Agricultural Productivity Partnerships with Centres of Excellence for apples, kiwifruit, and honey to improve farmer incomes, alongside duty-free inputs for India’s manufacturing sector. Investment cooperation is a key feature, with New Zealand committing USD 20 billion over 15 years to India.
The agreement strengthens regulatory cooperation, reduces non-tariff barriers, and provides faster market access for pharmaceuticals and medical devices. It also protects Indian Geographical Indications and promotes AYUSH systems, culture, and tourism.
Commerce Minister Shri Piyush Goyal emphasized that the FTA is people-centric and job-driven, supporting farmers, entrepreneurs, students, and women while strengthening India’s global economic presence.
This India–New Zealand FTA represents a strategic, future-ready partnership, aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and promoting inclusive and sustainable growth.