India and New Zealand have formalised a landmark Free Trade Agreement, marking one of India’s most consequential trade deals of the decade. Under the pact, Indian exporters will receive 100% duty-free access to New Zealand’s market across a wide range of goods, while a dedicated visa pathway will open structured access for 5,000 Indian professionals in IT, healthcare and engineering annually.
The agreement also includes a USD 20 billion investment commitment from New Zealand over 15 years and an additional 1,000 Working Holiday visas for young Indians. The deal aims to double bilateral trade to $5 billion within five years and was concluded in just nine months — making it one of India’s fastest-negotiated trade agreements. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal called it a significant step in deepening India’s trade relationships with Pacific nations.
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