Bhubaneswar: Union Minister Piyush Goyal announced that India and New Zealand are set to sign a bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA), marking a major step in strengthening economic ties between the two nations.
Goyal stated that after extensive discussions with New Zealand’s Trade Minister Todd McClay, the agreement was finalised under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. The pact is expected to be formally signed soon and operational within a few months.
According to the minister, nearly 100% of India’s exports to New Zealand will gain duty-free access, significantly boosting trade volumes. Key sectors such as leather, handloom, and handicrafts—particularly from regions like Agra—are expected to benefit from expanded market access.
During the visit, Minister McClay and his delegation also toured the iconic Taj Mahal, where they expressed appreciation for the monument and the arrangements made by local authorities.
The agreement is seen as a strategic move to deepen bilateral trade, open new export avenues, and strengthen economic cooperation between the two countries.
-OdishaAge
