ACT celebrates signing of NZ-India Free Trade Agreement

"New Zealand and India have just signed a Free Trade Agreement," reports ACT Trade spokesperson Dr Parmjeet Parmar, who is present in Delhi with the Trade Minister for the signing of the deal.

“It is a historic milestone in the relationship between our two democracies.

“I am proud to witness the signing. As someone of Indian origin, this moment is personally meaningful, and it builds on the strong family and community ties that already link so many New Zealanders to India.

“It will expand opportunities for exporters, deliver better value for consumers, and strengthen the deep connections between our two countries.

"The agreement reduces tariffs on the majority of goods traded between the two nations. New Zealand exporters will gain improved access to India’s growing market for products such as apples, kiwifruit, dairy, meat, wool and wood products. In turn, New Zealand importers and consumers will benefit from lower costs on Indian fine textiles, garments and machinery.

“ACT believes in trade. Trade works because it allows people on both sides of the equation to specialise in what they do best, doing business for mutual benefit while building connection and friendship along the way.

"Fewer barriers to trade mean more prosperity, more choice, and higher living standards for everyone involved. Indian New Zealanders will be well placed to leverage their family and business relationships to ensure goods reach people who want and need them at competitive prices.

“This agreement is good for New Zealand as a whole — more export opportunities and jobs for Kiwi businesses, greater choice and affordability for families, and recognition of the entrepreneurial contribution of the Indian community.

"This deal rewards hard work, innovation and enterprise while delivering real benefits to everyday New Zealanders.”