New Zealand - India Free Trade Agreement (FTA)

New Zealand and India agreed to undertake a joint study into the implications of a free trade agreement in 2007. That study has now been completed and you can download the report of the Joint Study Group below:

• Report of the NZ-India FTA Joint Study Group (PDF 2.2MB)

The study found that considerable potential exists to substantially develop the bilateral trade and economic relationship. Following this finding, Minister of Trade, Tim Groser, and his Indian counterpart, Minister Kamal Nath, agreed that, subject to the approval processes of both governments, the two countries will look to commence FTA negotiations as soon as possible.

The announcement was made on Friday 21 February during Minister Groser's trip to India and the expectation is that negotiations will commence later in 2009.

"This is a very important step forward for New Zealand. We have the opportunity, with this FTA negotiation, to redefine our economic partnership with one of the world's emerging economic superpowers" said Minister Groser.

New Zealand's exports to India were valued at NZ$360.5 million for the year ending June 2008 and bilateral merchandise trade between India and New Zealand grew 94%, from NZ$333.3 million to NZ$645.4 million, between June 2001 and June 2008.

In preparation for the possibility of FTA negotiations proceeding, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is now calling for submissions or comments from interested parties. Submissions were formally due by 29 May and have now been collated for incorporation into the negotiating brief. However, we are still keen to hear from any stakeholders who have an interest in these negotiations and are happy to continue receiving submissions and informal comments. To make a submission please use the on-line form, or to make any other comments or feedback contact Joanne Dow: joanne.dow@mfat.govt.nz or +64 4 439 8625.

• Online submission form

For more information see the related resources section.