Kerala exports first shipment under India-New Zealand free trade pact

A consignment from Kerala has been formally flagged off as part of preparatory measures for the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, which is poised for implementation in the coming months. The shipment marks one of the initial export batches from India under the bilateral trade framework, signalling growing commercial engagement between New Delhi and Wellington.

The free trade agreement aims to eliminate tariffs on a wide range of goods and services traded between the two countries, with particular focus on sectors where India and New Zealand hold comparative advantages. Kerala, India's leading exporter of spices, seafood, and agricultural products, is well-positioned to benefit from the expanded market access the pact provides.

Official sources indicated that the export consignment was dispatched following preparatory consultations between trade bodies and exporters to ensure compliance with the agreement's stipulations. The move underscores efforts by Indian exporters to capitalise on opportunities presented by the bilateral trade arrangement.

The India-New Zealand FTA, negotiated over several years, is expected to facilitate smoother trade flows and reduce transaction costs for businesses in both nations. Industry observers anticipate the agreement will drive growth in India's agricultural and value-added food exports to New Zealand, a high-income market with strong demand for premium Indian products.