India and New Zealand Begin Trade Deal Talks
India and New Zealand have officially launched negotiations for a Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (CFTA), marking a significant step towards strengthening economic ties between the two nations. The announcement comes after extensive discussions between New Zealand’s Trade and Investment Minister and his Indian counterpart in New Delhi on March 17, 2025.
The launch of these talks underscores India’s growing importance in the global economy, particularly as it becomes the world’s fifth-largest economy. With a population of 1.4 billion, India represents a massive opportunity for New Zealand to expand its exports, which is a key objective for the nation’s government. New Zealand has long viewed its relationship with India as a priority. Since assuming office, the New Zealand government has emphasised the need for closer economic engagement with India.
In a statement, New Zealand’s Prime Minister expressed optimism about the potential for India to play a central role in New Zealand’s plans to double its export value in the next decade. Trade and Investment Minister highlighted the importance of this move as part of a broader strategy to enhance diplomatic, economic, and people-to-people connections between the two countries.
The CFTA negotiations aim to promote mutual trade benefits, create job opportunities, and foster economic growth, ensuring that New Zealand can maintain its competitive edge in global markets. In addition to trade discussions, New Zealand is committed to deepening ties in areas such as political relations, defence, and environmental sustainability, ensuring that the growing partnership with India is robust and multidimensional.
With trade being a cornerstone of New Zealand’s economy, particularly as one in four jobs rely on trade, the CFTA negotiations reflect a broader strategy aimed at strengthening economic ties and fostering long-term prosperity for both nations. The successful completion of this deal is expected to bring about increased economic opportunities and job growth, supporting New Zealand’s commitment to enhancing global trade relations.
As India’s role on the global stage continues to grow, this trade agreement signals a pivotal moment in the expanding New Zealand-India partnership.
