India-New Zealand FTA comes into force; new visa categories for Indians, zero-duty access for exports

Union Minister for Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal applauds as officials exchange documents at a ceremony in New Delhi marking the upcoming entry into force of the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, on October 19, 2026. Source: X/@PiyushGoyalOffc

India’s free trade agreement with New Zealand came into force on Tuesday (October 20, 2026), eliminating 100% of Indian exports to the country and including $20 billion worth of foreign direct investment into India as part of the deal. Moreover, 95% of New Zealand’s exports to India will either be allowed tariff-free or at “sharply” reduced levies.

The FTA was signed on April 27 in New Delhi and ratified on September 21. New Zealand’s Parliament, on September 16, had passed legislation to implement the FTA.

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According to the New Zealand government’s immigration department, the new FTA bring with it new visa commitments for the country.