# New Zealand–India trade relations

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/new-zealandindia-trade-relations
> Updated: 2026-09-11T10:21:49.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 3.

The New Zealand–India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is projected to offer long-term commercial benefits, though experts suggest its impact may be a ‘slow burn’ rather than an immediate transformation.

Government modelling estimates the agreement could increase New Zealand’s annual GDP by approximately $380 million and exports to India by $836 million by 2036. Key opportunities for New Zealand businesses include sheep meat, forestry, kiwifruit, apples, wine, education, and tourism, though meaningful dairy access remains an unresolved issue.

The agreement faces scrutiny regarding potential trade imbalances. In India, critics and opposition groups have raised concerns over growing trade deficits and risks to domestic agriculture and labor. Some regional farmers and workers have staged protests demanding the cancellation of agreements with nations including the U.S., UK, and New Zealand, alleging that such pacts prioritize corporate interests over the domestic farm sector.

Recent developments have seen progress in specific agricultural sectors, notably with a signed agreement aimed at improving market access for New Zealand apples. This deal includes a reduction of import tariffs from 50% to 25% for qualifying apples, subject to an initial quota of 32,500 tons that is scheduled to increase to 45,000 tons by the sixth year. The agreement also establishes a minimum import price of €1.13 per kilogram, covering freight and insurance costs. Industry representatives noted that India represents one of the highest growth potentials for New Zealand apple exports in Asia.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-11: India and New Zealand sign free trade agreement for apple imports

India and New Zealand have signed a free trade agreement that reduces apple import tariffs from 50% to 25% under a growing quota system, boosting New Zealand's export potential in Asia.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/india-and-new-zealand-sign-free-trade-agreement-for-apple-imports

### 2026-08-24: New Zealand–India Free Trade Agreement faces growth potential and scrutiny

The New Zealand–India FTA is expected to drive long-term export growth in sectors like forestry and fruit, despite domestic protests in India regarding trade deficits and agricultural risks.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/new-zealandindia-free-trade-agreement-faces-growth-potential-and-scrutiny

### 2026-08-14: UK-India Free Trade Agreement to boost bilateral trade

The UK-India Free Trade Agreement aims to boost bilateral trade by £25 billion by 2040, offering tariff reductions and social security savings, though exporters must register with HMRC to access benefits.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/uk-india-free-trade-agreement-to-boost-bilateral-trade

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Cite as: New Zealand–India trade relations. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/new-zealandindia-trade-relations