Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has departed for an official visit to New Zealand, signaling a significant step towards finalizing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two nations. Goyal was seen attending to official work at IGI Airport in Delhi before boarding his flight to Auckland on November 4, 2025. The fourth round of negotiations began in Auckland on November 3, 2025.
Goyal's visit underscores the commitment from both countries to expedite the FTA process and cultivate a mutually beneficial economic partnership. Trade Minister Todd McClay has met with Goyal several times over the past 24 months. McClay received the “Friend of India” award at the Kiwi-Indian Hall of Fame Awards 2024 for his work strengthening India-New Zealand economic ties and advancing the FTA.
Speaking to the media, Goyal emphasized the need to finalize the agreement swiftly, highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of "Viksit Bharat 2047" as a driving force behind the renewed push for stronger ties with developed countries. He noted that discussions have been ongoing for the past six months, expressing optimism that an FTA could be decided upon rapidly, benefiting both nations.
During his visit, Goyal is scheduled to engage in high-level discussions with New Zealand's Minister for Trade, Todd McClay, focusing on strengthening trade, investment, and innovation. A dedicated interaction with prominent members of the New Zealand business community and the visiting Indian business delegation is also planned, aiming to foster collaboration between the private sectors of both countries.
The agenda includes a New Zealand-India Business Forum in Auckland, followed by a community interaction event with members of the Indian diaspora. Additionally, a "Fireside Chat" between Goyal and McClay, moderated by Simon Bridges, CEO of the Auckland Business Chamber, will delve into advancing trade cooperation, identifying new areas of economic convergence, and enhancing collaboration in innovation, technology, and sustainable growth.
The negotiations are expected to address non-tariff barriers, regulatory alignment, and future review mechanisms to ensure the agreement remains dynamic and forward-looking. Sectors like dairy, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy are expected to receive a boost from the FTA.
The current round of talks builds upon the momentum generated in March 2025, when Prime Minister Modi hosted New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in New Delhi, during which Goyal and McClay formally launched the FTA negotiations. Negotiators are currently concentrating on trade in goods, trade in services, and rules of origin, with both sides aiming to resolve pending issues for an early conclusion.
New Zealand's previous free trade negotiations with India, which took place between 2011 and 2015, faced obstacles, particularly concerning dairy exports. India is New Zealand's 12th two-way trading partner, with total trade valued at $3.14 billion in 2024.
