New Zealand’s parliament passes the India-New Zealand free trade agreement (FTA), moving it closer to implementation. New Zealand lawmakers vote in favour of the legislation on September 16, and the agreement is set to take effect in October, with multiple outlets citing October 20. Under the deal, New Zealand grants duty-free access to Indian goods across all tariff lines, while India removes or reduces tariffs on the majority of imports from New Zealand.
Across coverage, the tariff-cut figures are consistently described: India provides preferential treatment for about 95% of current imports from New Zealand, with 100% duty-free access to Indian exports entering New Zealand. India immediately eliminates duties on 30% of tariff lines and phases out additional tariffs over periods ranging from three to 10 years. Some sensitive products are excluded, including dairy and certain agricultural items, sugar, and some metals.
Outlets also agree on broader components beyond trade in goods. The agreement includes a commitment for New Zealand to invest about USD 20 billion in India over 15 years, agricultural cooperation to boost productivity, and provisions for services and mobility. Several reports say it expands student and professional movement through visa pathways and post-study work arrangements, while citing sector coverage for services and cooperation areas such as research, technology, and renewable energy.
