Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that the landmark India-New Zealand free trade agreement will add depth and dynamism to bilateral economic ties and unlock new opportunities for market access, investment, and talent mobility. He made the remarks during an interaction with CEOs and business leaders in Auckland on July 11, 2026.
Strategic Partnership and Key Outcomes
Modi held wide-ranging talks with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, resulting in 18 key outcomes, including the elevation of bilateral relations to a strategic partnership. This is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in 40 years, following the finalisation of the free trade agreement.
“A stronger economic partnership between India and New Zealand will create new opportunities for businesses, innovators and our youth,” Modi told business leaders. He described the free trade agreement as a “landmark” initiative that would open new avenues for market access, investment, services, technology, and talent mobility.
Investment Opportunities and Sectoral Collaboration
Modi invited New Zealand investors and business houses to partner with India in infrastructure development, civil aviation, logistics, clean energy, urban mobility, water management, waste management, and the digital economy. He highlighted India's sustained high growth, young and skilled workforce, expanding middle class, digital revolution, and next-generation infrastructure push as attractive factors for trade and investment.
“Political stability and sustained growth path has positioned India as a significant contributor to global growth,” Modi said. He also called for closer engagement between the private sectors of both countries in innovation, fintech, and emerging technologies.
Food Value Chains and Trade Targets
Modi noted that New Zealand's strengths in dairy science, horticulture, and forestry, combined with India's consumer market, food parks, and agri-tech talent, could create global food value chains. He urged business leaders to expand investment and commercial partnerships to achieve the target of doubling bilateral trade to NZD 7 billion (approximately INR 35,000 crore) by 2030.
“The India-New Zealand economic partnership could become a model for inclusive and sustainable trade and a platform for innovation and prosperity,” Modi emphasised.
Context of the Visit
Modi arrived in Auckland on the final leg of a three-nation tour focused on expanding economic and security cooperation. The visit marks a historic milestone in India-New Zealand relations, with the strategic partnership and free trade agreement expected to deepen ties across multiple sectors.
