India-New Zealand FTA kicks in Oct. 20

The Free Trade Agreement between India and New Zealand  is now operational and shall be effective from October 20. The announcement was made in New Delhi on Monday in the presence of New Zealand High Commission officials based in New Delhi. Addressing the ceremony for the Entry into Force of the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement in New Delhi, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said that with duty-free access for 100% of Indian exports to New Zealand, the FTA will unlock significant opportunities for MSMEs, farmers, women, youth & labour-intensive sectors. It also opens new pathways for our professionals, while safeguarding India's core interests."Our farmers will gain wider market access for fruits, vegetables, spices & other agricultural produce, alongside cooperation to improve productivity, support higher incomes & strengthen livelihoods. Sensitive sectors, including dairy, remain protected, keeping farmers' welfare at the heart of our approach," he said.Goyal thanked the PMs of both countries for successful implementation of FTA.

#WATCH | Delhi: At the ceremony marking the entry into force of the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, Union Minister Piyush Goyal says, "This will also facilitate $20 billion of investments into India, creating opportunities across manufacturing, infrastructure, agriculture, and innovation, creating a huge number of jobs and increasing our farmers' income. A successful FTA must be balanced, reciprocal, and mutually beneficial for both the partners..."

— ANI (@ANI) October 19, 2026

New Zealand's commitment to facilitate USD 20 billion in investment into India holds immense potential to strengthen manufacturing, infrastructure, services & innovation, supporting enterprise & employment. New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay also addressed the function, Commerce Secratary Rajesh Agrawal and Agriculture Secretary Atish Chandra were present from the Indian side.