New Zealand, India FTA Expected to Boost Jobs and Trade
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has welcomed a newly agreed free trade agreement (FTA) between New Zealand and India, calling it a major step forward in economic cooperation. Luxon said the deal is expected to generate more jobs, higher incomes and increased exports by giving New Zealand businesses access to India’s large market of around 1.4 billion consumers.
He described the FTA as a key economic achievement for his government and said it fulfils a promise made during his first term in office. Luxon also noted that the deal will open doors for exporters and help strengthen long-term growth in both countries.
Trade and Economic Impacts
Under the agreement, tariffs on a large portion of goods traded between the two countries will be reduced or eliminated, improving market access for exporters. New Zealand is expected to benefit in sectors like agriculture, forestry and manufactured goods, while India’s products will gain better entry into New Zealand markets.
Officials from both sides said the agreement aims to double bilateral trade over the next five years and encourage investment. New Zealand has also indicated plans for increased investment flows into India as part of wider economic cooperation.
Context and Outlook
The FTA marks one of the fastest-concluded trade deals for India and reflects growing economic engagement between the two countries. While some political debate continues in New Zealand over specific terms, both governments emphasise the deal’s potential to create jobs and raise income levels.
