The officials of India's Foreign Ministry are hopeful that a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with New Zealand will be finalized by the end of 2025. This comes in the wake of renewed FTA talks after a ten-year break. The negotiations are expected to promote supply chain integration and expand market access to enhance mutual economic growth. With the two-way trade already exceeding $1 billion between April-January 2025, the pact is likely to open up new possibilities for consumers and businesses. Some of the main challenges are duty concessions on produce such as apples, kiwis, dairy, and wine. India wants to conclude the pact within a year as part of its overall strategy to enhance economic alliances across the world.
Source: Economic Times, Hindustan Times, Business Standard.