India-New Zealand FTA to Strengthen Economic Partnership, Expand Trade and Investment Opportunities: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said the recently concluded India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) would significantly strengthen bilateral economic relations by creating fresh opportunities for trade, investment, technology collaboration, and skilled workforce mobility. Addressing a select gathering of CEOs and business leaders, Modi highlighted that the shared democratic values, multicultural societies, and commitment to sustainable growth make India and New Zealand natural partners for a stronger and future-focused economic relationship.

His remarks came shortly after extensive discussions with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, during which the two countries announced 18 major outcomes, including the elevation of bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership. Modi arrived in Auckland on Friday as the final stop of his three-nation tour aimed at enhancing economic and security cooperation. The visit marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in four decades and follows the successful conclusion of the bilateral free trade pact.

Speaking to industry leaders, Modi said a deeper economic partnership would unlock new opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs, and young professionals in both countries. He noted that the decision to upgrade relations to a Strategic Partnership reflects the shared ambition to expand cooperation across multiple sectors with measurable goals and practical outcomes.

Describing the FTA as a milestone agreement, the Prime Minister said it would improve market access while encouraging investment, services, technology exchange, and talent mobility between the two nations. Modi also outlined India's growing appeal as an investment destination, pointing to its strong economic growth, youthful and skilled workforce, expanding middle class, digital transformation, modern infrastructure development, and ongoing economic reforms. He added that India's stable political environment and consistent economic performance have made it an important driver of global growth.

Encouraging greater participation from New Zealand businesses, Modi invited investors to explore opportunities in infrastructure, aviation, logistics, renewable energy, urban transport, water and waste management, and the digital economy. He further stressed the importance of collaboration in innovation, fintech, and emerging technologies, urging businesses from both countries to strengthen partnerships in these high-growth sectors.

Highlighting complementary strengths, Modi said New Zealand's expertise in dairy technology, horticulture, and forestry, combined with India's vast consumer base, food processing capabilities, and agricultural technology talent, could help build globally competitive food value chains. The Prime Minister also urged business leaders to expand commercial engagement and work towards the shared objective of doubling bilateral trade to NZD 7 billion (around ₹35,000 crore) by 2030. Concluding his address, Modi expressed confidence that the India-New Zealand economic partnership has the potential to become a global example of inclusive, sustainable, and innovation-driven trade, benefiting businesses and citizens in both countries.