New Zealand–India free trade agreement

The story so far

The New Zealand government has concluded a free trade deal with India, which is expected to reduce or eliminate tariffs on about 95% of exports.^{22 Dec 2025} Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced the deal, which followed discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.^{23 Dec 2025} NZ First has said it will not support the legislation, and leader Winston Peters claims the deal was rushed for political purposes and could have secured more wins.^{22, 23 Dec 2025} The Labour Party has not confirmed whether it will support the deal, though spokesperson Damien O'Connor called it a "good step forward".^{23 Dec 2025} New Zealand exporters welcomed the agreement, which is expected to benefit the wine, apple and kiwifruit sectors, although dairy is not included in the benefits.^{23 Dec 2025}

Latest

Exporters have welcomed the deal, and an economist says it offers significant market opportunities over time.^{23 Dec 2025} Labour has still not said whether it will back the agreement, while NZ First remains opposed.^{23 Dec 2025}

Key moments

1. 22 Dec 2025Government concludes free trade deal with India, cutting tariffs on about 95% of exports.
2. 23 Dec 2025Luxon announces the deal after talks with Modi; NZ First declares opposition.
3. 23 Dec 2025Peters says deal was rushed; Labour stays undecided on supporting it.
4. 23 Dec 2025Exporters welcome the deal, with wine, apple and kiwifruit expected to benefit.

Written from the stories below; each sentence links to its sources.