Fourth Round of India–New Zealand FTA Negotiations Concludes Successfully

Both sides reaffirm commitment to an early, balanced, and comprehensive trade agreement

Auckland/Rotorua, November 8: The fourth round of negotiations on the proposed India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) concluded today in Auckland and Rotorua, marking five days of constructive and forward-looking discussions aimed at deepening bilateral economic ties.

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Piyush Goyal, and New Zealand’s Minister for Trade, Todd McClay, acknowledged the steady progress achieved during this round and reiterated their commitment to finalising a modern, comprehensive, and future-ready FTA.

The delegations held extensive discussions across key areas including trade in goods and services, economic and trade cooperation, and rules of origin. Both sides expressed their shared ambition to build a mutually beneficial partnership that promotes resilient, inclusive, and sustainable growth.

Guided by the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India reaffirmed its commitment to forging deeper economic engagements that strengthen global supply chains and foster prosperity. The ministers noted that the proposed FTA is expected to enhance trade flows, deepen investment linkages, and provide greater predictability and market access for businesses in both nations.

India’s bilateral merchandise trade with New Zealand reached USD 1.3 billion in FY 2024–25, representing a 49% year-on-year growth. The FTA is projected to unlock additional potential in agriculture, food processing, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, education, and services, creating new opportunities for enterprises and consumers on both sides.

Both countries agreed to maintain momentum through inter-sessional work and continue detailed discussions across all chapters, reaffirming their shared determination to move swiftly towards an early, balanced, and mutually advantageous conclusion of the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement.