The India-New Zealand free trade agreement will take effect on October 20, 2026, giving Indian exporters 100 percent duty-free access across all 8,284 tariff lines covering their exports to New Zealand.

The Trade Promotion Council of India said the pact sets the stage for doubling bilateral trade to 5 billion dollars within five years, and for securing 20 billion dollars in long-term New Zealand investment into India. Tariffs of up to 5 percent on processed foods, spices, seasonings, confectionery, bakery goods and sauces will drop to zero on day one.

Apparel, leather and footwear will also enter duty-free after facing tariffs of 2 to 10 percent, while regulators in New Zealand will accept inspection reports from comparable regulators like the US FDA for Indian generics and medical devices.

The agreement protects sensitive Indian sectors. Dairy remains covered by safeguards, and New Zealand apple imports face a duty cut from 50 to 25 percent within a quota of 32,500 tonnes. Farm unions have urged the government to watch import pressure on domestic apple growers in Himachal Pradesh as the deadline nears.

Reporting based on: www.bizzbuzz.news, ianslive.in, theindianawaaz.com.