India, New Zealand seal FTA with 100% duty-free exports
India, New Zealand seal FTA with 100% duty-free exports
India and New Zealand sign a landmark Free Trade Agreement delivering 100% duty-free access for Indian exports and broad tariff relief on NZ imports.
India and New Zealand are set to sign a Free Trade Agreement on April 27, 2026, forging 100% duty-free access for Indian exports to New Zealand and significant tariff relief on a majority of New Zealand imports. The pact is described as one of the fastest-negotiated trade agreements for India, with talks announced in March 2025 and wrapped up by December 2025. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal welcomed the development on social media, highlighting the mutual benefits for both economies.
Under the deal, all Indian exports will enjoy 100% duty-free access, while New Zealand will reduce or remove tariffs on about 95% of its imports from India. The agreement is expected to boost bilateral trade to about $5 billion within five years, delivering a tangible push for Indian manufacturers and exporters.
Industry observers point to the leather sector in Agra as a notable beneficiary, with the pact opening up more affordable access to the NZ market for leather goods and related products. The agreement also aims to diversify trade across sectors, protecting sensitive agricultural products while expanding opportunities in manufactured goods and services.
Negotiations were completed in record time, reflecting strong political will on both sides. The signing in New Delhi will bring together ministers and business leaders to mark a new phase in India’s trade policy and strategic ties with New Zealand.
