India and New Zealand Revive Free Trade Agreement Talks to Boost Bilateral Trade

India and New Zealand are once again at the negotiation table, seeking to finalize a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to enhance economic cooperation and investment opportunities. The five-day talks, which aim to benefit both nations, are set to conclude on Friday.

The announcement in March 2025 marks a resumption after a ten-year gap, with initial negotiations having stalled in 2015. The primary challenge lies in aligning India's higher tariffs with New Zealand's relatively lower rates, compelling both sides to address these differences for a mutually beneficial agreement.

New Zealand's interest in accessing India's dairy market, which remains a point of contention, could be a pivotal factor in the negotiations. India's robust export portfolio, especially in IT and services, complements New Zealand's strengths in education and tourism, paving the way for diversified bilateral trade relations.

(With inputs from agencies.)