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India readies for duty-free access for exports as talks with NZ conclude
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Tuesday, 30 December, 2025, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Ashwani Maindola, New Delhi
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India and New Zealand have announced the conclusion of talks with respect to the free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations. The Indian Government has called it a new generation trade agreement built on tariffs, agricultural productivity, investment and talent, eliminating tariffs on 100% of its tariff lines, and providing duty-free access for all Indian exports.
As per the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the FTA would lead to a Zero Duty market access on 100% of India’s exports and India has offered tariff liberalisation in 70% lines covering 95% of New Zealand India Bilateral trade.
New Zealand has committed to facilitate investments of US$20 billion into India over the next 15 years, thereby supporting manufacturing, infrastructure, services, innovation and employment under India’s Make in India vision. Indian enterprises are also expected to benefit from their presence in New Zealand and access the wider Pacific Island markets.
Under the FTA, the two sides agreed on establishment of dedicated Agri-Technology Action Plans on kiwifruit, apples and honey, focus on productivity enhancement, technology, research collaboration, quality improvement and value-chain development, to strengthen domestic capabilities and supporting income growth for Indian farmers.
The cooperation includes the establishment of Centres of Excellence, improved planting material, capacity building for growers and technical support for orchard management, post-harvest practices, supply chain performance, and food safety.
As per Commerce Ministry, under the proposed FTA, projects for apple cultivators and sustainable beekeeping practices will enhance production and quality standards.
Launched on March 16, 2025, the now concluded negotiations held continuous and intense discussions spread over 5 formal rounds, several in-person and virtual intersessions.
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