Christopher Luxon on Sunday confirmed that New Zealand and India will sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on Monday, calling it a “once-in-a-generation” pact aimed at significantly boosting trade and economic ties.
Announcing the development on social media, Luxon said the agreement would open up one of the world’s largest markets to New Zealand exporters. In a video message, he described the deal as a major breakthrough that would give Kiwi businesses access to India’s vast consumer base and fast-growing economy.
“This is a once-in-a-generation agreement that provides unprecedented access to 1.4 billion people,” Luxon said, noting that India is on track to become one of the world’s largest economies. He added that the FTA would help New Zealand exporters compete more effectively on the global stage and tap into India’s expanding middle class.
Emphasising the importance of trade, Luxon pointed out that around one in four jobs in New Zealand is linked to exports. He said the agreement would support job creation, particularly in sectors such as farming and horticulture, while driving higher incomes across communities.
The Prime Minister also highlighted broader economic gains, saying stronger trade would enable increased investment in public services and infrastructure, including roads, schools, hospitals and policing.
Calling the deal a “big win,” Luxon said it would boost exports of key products such as kiwifruit, wine, seafood, meat and honey. He stressed that expanding these sectors globally would support economic growth, higher wages and better opportunities for New Zealanders.
Summing up the impact, Luxon said the agreement would strengthen the economy and ultimately put “more money in Kiwis’ back pockets.”
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