Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the recently concluded India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement as a historic achievement.
He highlighted that this agreement is India’s first Free Trade Agreement led predominantly by women.
He noted that nearly the entire negotiating team for the FTA consisted of women.
India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement Marks a Historic Women-Led Milestone
The Prime Minister made these remarks while sharing an article written by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal.
He emphasized that India’s current FTAs are not limited to lowering tariffs but are part of a larger effort to strengthen the economy and improve the lives of millions of people.
In his article, Piyush Goyal explained that the India–New Zealand FTA represents a major step forward in India’s trade diplomacy.
He pointed out that the agreement will create new opportunities for small businesses, students, women, farmers, and youth across the country.
The FTA is expected to support economic growth, generate employment, and improve access to global markets.
The Commerce Minister noted that this agreement is the seventh trade deal concluded under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership.
He added that the deal reflects a consistent strategy to expand global trade partnerships aligned with India’s growth objectives.
India and New Zealand Leaders Announce FTA Conclusion During Phone Call
Prime Minister Modi also held a telephone conversation with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. During the call, both leaders jointly announced the successful conclusion of the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement.
The two Prime Ministers described the agreement as historic, ambitious, and mutually beneficial. They agreed that the FTA would act as a catalyst for increased trade, investment, innovation, and shared opportunities between the two countries.
The leaders welcomed progress in other areas of cooperation, including defence, sports, education, and people-to-people ties.
It was noted that negotiations for the FTA began during Prime Minister Luxon’s visit to India in March 2025.
Both leaders observed that concluding the agreement in a record time of nine months reflected strong political will and shared ambition.
The FTA is expected to significantly deepen bilateral economic engagement between India and New Zealand.
It will enhance market access, encourage investment flows, and strengthen strategic cooperation.
The agreement is also set to create new opportunities for innovators, entrepreneurs, farmers, MSMEs, students, and youth in both countries across multiple sectors.
With the foundation provided by the FTA, both leaders expressed confidence that bilateral trade could double over the next five years.
They also projected investment worth USD 20 billion in India from New Zealand over the next fifteen years.
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the overall India–New Zealand partnership.
Both Prime Ministers agreed to remain in regular contact moving forward.
