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Business
New Zealand Minister Hails India‑NZ Free Trade Deal as Beacon for Others
✍️ Asianet Newsable
🗓 19 Sep 2026, 01:36 PM
👁 10
New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay said the recently concluded India‑New Zealand free trade agreement could serve as a model for other nations.
New Zealand’s trade minister, Todd McClay, described the India‑New Zealand free trade agreement (FTA) as a "beacon" that could guide other countries seeking deeper economic ties. Speaking to Asianet Newsable, McClay highlighted the agreement’s role in expanding market access for both nations and underscored its strategic importance in the Indo‑Pacific region.
The FTA, which came into force in 2022, removes or reduces tariffs on a wide range of goods, from agricultural produce to manufactured items, and opens up services sectors such as finance, education and tourism. Both governments have pledged to streamline customs procedures and enhance regulatory cooperation, aiming to boost bilateral trade volumes.
McClay added that the partnership showcases how middle‑size economies can collaborate on rules‑based trade, offering a template for other nations looking to negotiate similar deals. He expressed confidence that the agreement will spur investment, create jobs and deepen people‑to‑people links between India and New Zealand.
The statement arrives as both capitals explore further cooperation in areas like green technology and digital trade, signalling a broader ambition to shape a more integrated regional economy.
The FTA, which came into force in 2022, removes or reduces tariffs on a wide range of goods, from agricultural produce to manufactured items, and opens up services sectors such as finance, education and tourism. Both governments have pledged to streamline customs procedures and enhance regulatory cooperation, aiming to boost bilateral trade volumes.
McClay added that the partnership showcases how middle‑size economies can collaborate on rules‑based trade, offering a template for other nations looking to negotiate similar deals. He expressed confidence that the agreement will spur investment, create jobs and deepen people‑to‑people links between India and New Zealand.
The statement arrives as both capitals explore further cooperation in areas like green technology and digital trade, signalling a broader ambition to shape a more integrated regional economy.