India’s expanding free trade push took a decisive turn this week after New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced on X that his government has delivered on its pledge to secure a Free Trade Agreement with India in its first term, opening what he called the door to 1.4 billion consumers and fresh opportunities for jobs, incomes and exports.
The announcement came as India and New Zealand jointly confirmed the conclusion of negotiations on a comprehensive FTA, one of India’s fastest-ever trade deals, aimed at doubling bilateral trade within five years and unlocking USD 20 billion in New Zealand investment over the next 15 years.
We said we’d secure a Free Trade Agreement with India in our first term, and we’ve delivered,” Luxon wrote on X. “This landmark deal means more jobs, higher incomes and more exports by opening the door to 1.4 billion Indian consumers. Fixing the basics, building the future.”
A FAST-TRACKED DEAL WITH BIG AMBITIONS
The agreement marks India’s third FTA this year, following pacts with the UK in July and Oman earlier this month. Negotiations were launched during Luxon’s visit to India in March 2025 and wrapped up in just nine months, reflecting what both sides described as strong political will.