The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today hailed the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as a landmark moment in the partnership between the two countries.
He said that the agreement will add unprecedented momentum to the developmental partnership and reflects the deep trust, shared values and ambition that bind the two nations.
The Prime Minister noted that the FTA will greatly benefit farmers, youth, women, MSMEs, artisans, startups, students and innovators. He added that it will open new avenues for growth, create opportunities and deepen synergy across sectors.
Shri Modi further highlighted that the investment commitment of $20 billion by New Zealand will strengthen cooperation in agriculture, manufacturing, innovation and technology, paving the way for a more prosperous and dynamic future for both countries.
The Prime Minister posted on X;
“Today marks a landmark moment in the India-New Zealand partnership!
I am delighted that the India-New Zealand FTA signed today will add unprecedented momentum to our developmental partnership. It reflects the deep trust, shared values and ambition that bind our two nations.
This agreement will greatly benefit our farmers, youth, women, MSMEs, artisans, startups, students and innovators. It will open new avenues for growth, create opportunities and deepen our synergy across sectors.
The investment commitment of $20 billion by New Zealand will further strengthen our cooperation in agriculture, manufacturing, innovation and technology, paving the way for a more prosperous and dynamic future for both countries.
@chrisluxonmp”
The Prime Minister’s Office also said in X post;
“In a message, PM @narendramodi said that the India-New Zealand FTA marks a major milestone towards deeper global engagement and shared prosperity.
It strengthens economic ties between two vibrant democracies, unlocking opportunities for farmers, artisans, youth, entrepreneurs, women and MSMEs.
It will create opportunities for farmers, youth, MSMEs and entrepreneurs. #IndiaNZFTA”
Advancement of PM
NarendraModi ji’s vision of transforming global economic partnerships into tangible gains for farmers, women, youth, and job-creating industries.
The FTA has been carefully structured to enhance agricultural productivity. New Zealand will support agriculture productivity action plans for kiwi, apples, and honey. These initiatives include improved planting material, research collaboration, capacity building for growers, post-harvest improvements, food safety systems, and the establishment of centres of excellence. Projects for apple cultivators and sustainable beekeeping practices will enhance production and quality standards, which will increase farm prosperity.
At the same time, India has firmly protected its core agricultural interests. Sensitive products such as dairy (including milk, cream, whey, yoghurt, and cheese), vegetables like onions, chana, peas, corn, almonds, sugar, and certain oils and fats have been excluded from tariff concessions. This ensures that domestic farmers remain insulated from disruptive import competition. Protecting the interests of farmers and fishermen has been central to India’s approach in all trade negotiations.
A major pillar of the agreement is enhanced mobility for students and skilled professionals, creating new global pathways for India’s youth.
For the first time in any bilateral trade agreement, New Zealand has introduced a structured framework for Indian student mobility and post-study work opportunities. There are no numerical caps on Indian students. Students will be allowed to work at least 20 hours per week during studies, while post-study work rights extend up to three years for STEM graduates and up to four years for doctoral scholars.
The agreement introduces a Temporary Employment Entry Visa pathway for up to 5,000 Indian professionals at any given time, allowing stays of up to three years in sectors such as IT, engineering, healthcare, education, construction, and select traditional fields like yoga, Ayurveda, Indian cuisine, and music education.
In addition, a Working Holiday Visa scheme will allow 1,000 young Indians annually to live and work in New Zealand for up to 12 months, strengthening cultural exchange and global exposure.
New Zealand has committed to facilitating $20 billion of investment into India. This is expected to support manufacturing, infrastructure, renewable energy, digital services, innovation ecosystems, and employment generation.
A rebalancing clause has been incorporated to ensure accountability, allowing India to take corrective measures if investment commitments fall short. The agreement also encourages collaboration in research, technology transfer, skill development, and innovation-driven sectors, ensuring that trade is complemented by long-term developmental partnerships.
The India–New Zealand FTA reflects a clear and confident trade strategy of partnering with developed economies that open meaningful market access for India’s labour-intensive sectors while respecting domestic sensitivities.
India today negotiates from a position of strength and credibility. Unlike earlier decades, when trade agreements often exposed vulnerable sectors without adequate safeguards, current negotiations ensure that agriculture, dairy, and other sensitive areas remain fully protected.
As India deepens its engagement with advanced economies, trade agreements with the developed world stand as a powerful example of how trade policy can be aligned with national development goals, ensuring inclusive growth and long-term economic resilience on the path to Viksit Bharat 2047.