Prime Minister of New Zealand Christopher Luxon shakes hands with Prime Minister Narendra Modi before their meeting at Hyderabad House in New Delhi, India, March 17, 2025. File Image/Reuters
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Firstpost22-12-2025, 14:55

India-New Zealand FTA: Landmark Deal Promises Billions in Trade, Jobs

  • India and New Zealand concluded negotiations for a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on December 22, 2025, aiming to significantly boost bilateral trade.
  • India gains immediate zero-duty access for all its exports to New Zealand, while New Zealand receives preferential market access for 70% of India's tariff lines.
  • New Zealand secures quota-based, duty-free access for kiwifruit and preferential access for apples and mānuka honey, with India protecting sensitive dairy products.
  • The FTA expands services, fintech, and includes provisions for up to 1,667 skilled Indian workers annually and an expanded working holiday scheme in New Zealand.
  • New Zealand commits $20 billion investment in India over 15 years, with both countries targeting to double bilateral trade within five years.

Why It Matters: Historic India-New Zealand FTA concluded, set to unlock substantial trade, investment, and job opportunities for both nations.

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