Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced a major milestone in India’s global trade strategy, as India and New Zealand signed the landmark India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
The agreement, concluded in a record nine months, was achieved under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Luxon, with key contributions from New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay and both nations’ negotiating teams.
Today, we mark a historic milestone in the relationship between India and New Zealand: the signing of our Free Trade Agreement.
It was only 13 months ago that I travelled to India to meet with Prime Minister Modi and launch Free Trade Agreement negotiations. India is one of the…
— Christopher Luxon (@chrisluxonmp) April 27, 2026
Described as India’s first women-led FTA, the agreement marks a defining moment in bilateral economic relations, reflecting deep mutual trust and a shared vision for inclusive growth.
Today marks a landmark moment in the India-New Zealand partnership!
I am delighted that the India-New Zealand FTA signed today will add unprecedented momentum to our developmental partnership. It reflects the deep trust, shared values and ambition that bind our two nations.… https://t.co/WBHn4gb1yB
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 27, 2026
A key highlight of the pact is 100% duty-free access for Indian exports to New Zealand, which is expected to significantly benefit MSMEs, farmers, women entrepreneurs, youth, and professionals. The agreement also ensures that India’s sensitive sectors are protected through a balanced and calibrated framework.
In a message, PM @narendramodi said that the India-New Zealand FTA marks a major milestone towards deeper global engagement and shared prosperity.
It strengthens economic ties between two vibrant democracies, unlocking opportunities for farmers, artisans, youth, entrepreneurs,… pic.twitter.com/zglAERVVcj
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 27, 2026
Beyond trade, the FTA is projected to facilitate up to $20 billion in investment into India, strengthening collaboration across sectors such as services, innovation, mobility, agriculture productivity, and education. It also aims to create new pathways for skilled professionals and students.
India is becoming a hub for developed countries to manufacture at scale for the domestic and global markets. Each of our FTAs will be a huge job generator.
#IndiaNZFTA pic.twitter.com/BZJ5BomQS8
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) April 27, 2026
This forward-looking partnership reinforces India’s ambition of becoming a developed economy under the “Viksit Bharat” vision, while setting a new benchmark for equitable and trusted global trade cooperation.
