Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday courted New Zealand investors, describing India as a 'launchpad for global growth' and emphasizing that the two nations' shared democratic values, diversity and commitment to sustainable development provide a robust foundation for an ambitious, forward-looking economic partnership.
Modi's Pitch to New Zealand Business Leaders
Addressing a gathering of top New Zealand business leaders and investors in Auckland, Modi highlighted India's rapid economic transformation and the vast opportunities available across sectors such as technology, renewable energy, agriculture, and manufacturing. He noted that India's stable democratic framework and predictable policy environment make it an ideal destination for foreign investment.
'India is not just a market; it is a launchpad for global growth. When you invest in India, you are not only tapping into a domestic market of 1.4 billion people but also gaining access to a platform that connects you to the world,' Modi said.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The Prime Minister underlined the importance of the India-New Zealand relationship, which has been strengthened by shared values and a commitment to multilateralism. He pointed to the recent progress in trade negotiations, with both sides working towards a comprehensive economic cooperation agreement.
'Our partnership is built on trust, transparency, and a shared vision for a prosperous future. I invite New Zealand businesses to be part of India's growth story,' Modi added.
According to official data, bilateral trade between India and New Zealand stood at approximately USD 2.3 billion in 2025-26, with potential for significant expansion in sectors like dairy, education, and tourism.
India's Economic Reforms and Opportunities
Modi detailed India's recent economic reforms, including the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, and the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, which have improved the ease of doing business and boosted manufacturing. He also highlighted the government's focus on digital infrastructure and renewable energy, with a target of 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030.
'India is undergoing a massive transformation. Our digital public infrastructure, from UPI to Aadhaar, has revolutionized governance and financial inclusion. We are committed to sustainable development and creating a green economy,' Modi said.
Reactions and Future Prospects
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, who co-hosted the event, welcomed Modi's remarks and expressed optimism about deepening economic ties. 'India is a priority partner for New Zealand. We see immense potential in collaborating on innovation, climate change, and trade,' Luxon said.
The event concluded with a Q&A session where investors sought clarity on regulatory frameworks and sector-specific opportunities. Many expressed interest in India's renewable energy and agri-tech sectors.
