The India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) will come into force on October 20, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced on Monday that is on 21st of September 2026.
Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, Goyal said the agreement would provide duty-free access to 100 per cent of Indian exports entering the New Zealand market, marking a significant milestone in bilateral economic relations.
The minister said the agreement reflects the two countries’ shared commitment to deepening strategic and economic cooperation, with an ambition to nearly double bilateral trade in goods and services to around ₹35,000 crore over the next four to five years.
According to Goyal, the FTA is expected to create significant opportunities for Indian exporters across sectors including textiles and apparel, leather and footwear, engineering goods, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and processed food products.
At the same time, New Zealand will receive enhanced access to the Indian market for products such as wood, wool, sheep meat and raw leather hides.
The agreement also expands cooperation in services and investment while facilitating greater professional, student and youth mobility. It includes provisions aimed at creating improved pathways for Indian professionals and students seeking opportunities in New Zealand.
The minister said the pact is expected to facilitate up to US$20 billion in investments into India and strengthen bilateral collaboration in areas such as agricultural productivity, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, traditional medicine, AYUSH, technology and trade facilitation.
India and New Zealand share longstanding ties supported by strong people-to-people connections and growing cooperation across sectors including trade, investment, agriculture, education, sports and technology.
The India-New Zealand FTA is expected to further strengthen these relations while creating new economic opportunities for businesses, investors and communities in both countries.
