What does the India New Zealand FTA change for Indian exporters?

It provides zero duty access for Indian goods entering New Zealand, improving price competitiveness and margins. Exporters should align HS codes, prepare rules-of-origin paperwork, and schedule early consignments. Sectors likely to benefit include MSMEs, textiles, and engineering goods, with services and mobility provisions also supporting project staffing and revenue visibility.

Are New Zealand dairy products getting easier access to India?

No. India has given no duty concessions on dairy. The carve-out protects small farmers and keeps sensitive agri lines off the table. This helps maintain rural incomes and avoids negative price shocks domestically while India expands exports of manufactured goods and services to the New Zealand market.

How big is New Zealand’s investment pledge under the pact?

New Zealand has pledged $20 billion over 15 years, subject to project pipelines and approvals. This capital could support employment, supply chains, and productivity. Investors should track project announcements, instruments used, and regulatory clearances to estimate timing and sectoral exposure as funds begin to flow into the Indian economy.

Which sectors in India stand to gain the most?

MSMEs, textiles, engineering goods, and IT services are positioned to benefit. Goods gain from zero duty, while services gain from improved mobility. Exporters should focus on distribution tie-ups, product localization, and compliance readiness. Service firms can prepare staffing benches, pricing models, and documentation to speed up contract execution and billing.

Law and Government

December 23: India–New Zealand FTA Sealed—Zero Duty for Indian Exports, Dairy Carve-Outs Shape Trade

ByHuzaifa Zahoor December 23, 2025December 23, 2025

The India New Zealand FTA delivers zero duty exports for Indian goods, wider services access, and a clear dairy sector carve-out that shields farmers. New Zealand pledged $20 billion in investment over 15 years, and bilateral trade could double within five years. We see tailwinds for MSMEs, textiles, engineering, and IT services, alongside stronger logistics and FX flows. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal signalled growth with safeguards, making the India New Zealand FTA a policy shift with immediate market relevance for Indian exporters and investors.