India-New Zealand FTA, a modern trade partnership
For years, trade between India and New Zealand has been a relationship with untapped potential. The two economies have remained friendly partners, yet commercial engagement has never quite matched the opportunities available. Trade remains relatively modest. The bilateral merchandise trade stood at $1.3 billion (approximately) in FY 2024-25, of which India’s exports to New Zealand accounted for only around $711 million, despite registering 32% year-on-year growth. The numbers are moving in the right direction, but remain small when compared to India’s trade relationships with larger partners. The proposed India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) could change that equation as it attempts to create conditions for faster bilateral growth.
