Third Round of India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement Negotiations Concludes in Queenstown
SDG 8: Decent Work & Economic Growth | SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Institution: Ministry of Commerce & Industry
The third round of negotiations for the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) wrapped up on 19 September 2025 in Queenstown, New Zealand. The talks, held from 15–19 September, progressed across multiple chapters, with some concluded and others seeing “significant progress.” The FTA was formally launched in March 2025. Bilateral merchandise trade between India and New Zealand reached USD 1.3 billion in FY 2024–25, marking a growth of nearly 49 percent year-on-year. The agreement is expected to deepen trade and investment flows, fortify supply chains, and offer a more predictable framework for businesses in both countries. Both sides committed to sustained momentum via inter-sessional engagements, and the next round of talks is slated for 13–14 October 2025 in New Delhi.
The ongoing FTA negotiations reflect India’s strategy of diversifying trade partners beyond traditional markets and enhancing bilateral value chains. A successful agreement could set a benchmark for future trade pacts, helping to institutionalize rules that favor Indian exporters and integrate supply chains with the Indo-Pacific region.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders:
How can India ensure that the FTA with New Zealand translates into near-term gains for small and medium enterprises rather than just large exporters?
Follow the full news here: Press Release – PIB