Leading business chamber Assocham has partnered with the India-New Zealand Business Council (INZBC) to establish a structured plan of action under the India–New Zealand FTA. This collaboration aims to streamline industry-led initiatives and maximize the benefits of the agreement for businesses on both sides.
The agreement emphasizes the importance of strengthening connectivity and human links to fully realize the potential of the India–New Zealand partnership in the coming years. Enhanced engagement between trade and industry bodies is expected to simplify trade processes and reduce operational hurdles, fostering smoother trade relations between the two countries.
The FTA, finalized on December 22, 2025, after a record nine months of negotiations, signifies a significant milestone in bolstering bilateral ties between India and New Zealand. With current trade volumes standing at $1.3 billion in goods and $634 million in services, both nations aim to elevate this figure to $5 billion within the next five years. The substantial Indian diaspora of nearly 300,000 individuals in New Zealand plays a crucial role in bridging this partnership, according to the statement.
The agreement underscores India’s strategic diversification across the Indo-Pacific region and its commitment to establishing resilient and inclusive economic partnerships amidst global trade uncertainties. With 100% duty-free access for Indian exports to New Zealand, the FTA opens up new avenues for trade and investment, setting the stage for a deeper economic collaboration between the two countries.
