India and New Zealand have finished talks on a Free Trade Agreement after nine months of negotiations. Leaders from both countries see the deal as a step toward higher trade and closer cooperation. No new official updates have been released beyond the announcement.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on Monday. During the call, both leaders confirmed that India and New Zealand have completed talks on a Free Trade Agreement.
The Prime Minister’s Office said the talks were wrapped up in nine months. The process began after Prime Minister Luxon visited India in March 2025. Both sides said the fast pace showed strong intent from the two governments to grow ties.
Officials said the agreement will expand trade between the two countries. It is meant to improve access for goods and services and support investment from both sides. The deal is also expected to help farmers, small businesses, students, and young professionals in India and New Zealand.
During the call, the two leaders spoke about trade targets. They said both countries aim to double two-way trade within five years. They also referred to plans for New Zealand firms to invest up to 20 billion US dollars in India over the next 15 years, according to earlier discussions between officials.
The leaders also reviewed cooperation in defence, sports, education, and cultural exchange. They said regular contact between people in both countries has helped ties grow over time.
Both prime ministers agreed to stay in touch as work begins on putting the trade deal into effect. They also said talks will continue on other areas of cooperation.
The Free Trade Agreement talks started in March 2025 and were completed in nine months. The deal focuses on trade, investment, and closer ties between India and New Zealand. No detailed tariff schedules or rollout dates have been made public yet.
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