Constructive negotiations held across all FTA areas, says Ministry
In a major step towards expanding bilateral trade and investment engagement, the first round of negotiations for the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) was concluded in New Delhi on 9 May https://www.commerce.gov.in/.
The FTA was launched on 16 March 2025 as the leadership of both countries builds on the shared commitment to deepen economic ties and guidance given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the visit of the New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in March 2025 http://nzte.govt.nz.
The First Round, held 5-9 May, followed a series of virtual discussions held between both partners which laid the groundwork for the in-person meeting, Commerce and Industry Ministry said https://www.bseindia.com/.
Constructive negotiations were held across all areas of FTA including Trade in Goods and Services, Trade Facilitation and mutually beneficial sectors of economic co-operation. This engagement highlights the strategic importance both partners attach to building a mutually beneficial, balanced and a fair-trade agreement https://www.nseindia.com/.
The bilateral trade relationship has seen a sharp upward trajectory in recent years. Total merchandise trade between the two countries has reached US$1.3 billion in financial year 2024–25, registering a strong growth of 48.6% over the previous financial year.
This underscores the growing potential of India-New Zealand Economic Partnership https://fieo.org/.
The FTA is expected to further elevate trade and investment potential, improve supply chain integration, and foster a predictable and transformative trading environment for businesses on both sides https://sbi.com.in/.
Both countries reaffirmed their common vision and mutual understanding to work towards a future ready framework and conclude the FTA this year, the Ministry said.
The next round FTA talks will be held in July 2025.
“As India steadily advances its footprint through multiple trade agreements, the first FTA round reflects a steadfast commitment to enhance economic partnerships aligned with national priorities and global aspirations,” the Ministry underlined. Fiinews.com
