Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Wednesday said that a proposed bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and New Zealand would not only strengthen trade and investment ties but also send a strong global message of closer cooperation between the two nations.
Speaking at a joint press conference with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in Auckland, Goyal outlined the potential mutual benefits of the deal, emphasising that New Zealand could access India’s vast and growing market, while India could learn from New Zealand’s innovations and expertise across multiple sectors.
He identified key areas of collaboration, including the maritime industry, aerospace, defence, education, sports, and tourism, as avenues to expand the partnership and foster long-term economic growth.
“I am grateful for the direction that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon are providing us to negotiate a mutually beneficial trade deal for the prosperity of our people and businesses,” Goyal said in a post on X.
The Commerce Minister, who is leading the largest-ever Indian business delegation to New Zealand, noted a strong “convergence of thinking and commitment” on both sides toward building a resilient trade relationship.
“We are going to work together for a better future for the people of New Zealand and India, providing new opportunities for business, creating jobs, and driving economic development. Inclusive and sustainable development is at the core of our philosophy,” he added.
Goyal also reflected on India’s economic progress, recalling how the country transformed from being one of the “fragile five” economies to ranking among the world’s top five. He attributed this shift to consistent policy reforms that promote ease of doing business and encourage foreign investments.
He underlined that the Indian government has focused on “laying out the red carpet” for investors by removing bureaucratic hurdles, reducing compliance burdens, and ensuring a more investor-friendly tax regime.
“We’ve continuously reduced taxes, both direct and indirect, while cutting down paperwork. There’s no longer the threat of criminalization for minor business offences,” Goyal stated.
As part of his official visit, Goyal joined Prime Minister Luxon and Trade Minister Todd McClay in paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre in Auckland, reaffirming India’s cultural ties with New Zealand.
The ongoing talks mark a renewed phase in India–New Zealand relations, aiming to open new trade channels and promote economic cooperation under a framework that prioritises mutual prosperity and sustainable growth.
