New Zealand has formally signed a major Free Trade Agreement with Christopher Luxon describing it as a “once-in-a-generation” deal set to boost jobs, exports and economic growth, while critics warn of long-term consequences.
The agreement was signed in New Delhi by Trade Minister Todd McClay and India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, with Luxon saying the deal opens access to a market of 1.4 billion people and supports New Zealand’s goal of doubling export value within a decade. He said the FTA would “deliver thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in additional exports,” while strengthening economic security during global instability.
The Government also highlighted provisions including a “Most Favoured Nation” clause covering wine and services, it claims will generate tens of millions in additional export value. Current two-way trade between the countries sits at NZ$3.95 billion, with ministers saying the agreement will significantly expand that figure.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the deal as a “landmark moment,” saying it would accelerate growth across sectors including agriculture, manufacturing and technology, while creating opportunities for businesses, workers and innovators in both countries. He also pointed to a reported US$20 billion investment commitment from New Zealand as a key driver of future cooperation.
Luxon said the agreement was not only economic but “strategic”, framing it as a commitment to “stable, predictable, and rules-based trade” at a time of global uncertainty, while also strengthening wider ties across defence, innovation and people-to-people links.
However, reaction online has been sharply divided. Critics accused the Government of ignoring public concerns, with some claiming the deal could impact national sovereignty, immigration settings and local industries. Others warned of political fallout, suggesting the agreement could cost support among voters opposed to deeper trade integration.
Today marks a landmark moment in the India-New Zealand partnership!
I am delighted that the India-New Zealand FTA signed today will add unprecedented momentum to our developmental partnership. It reflects the deep trust, shared values and ambition that bind our two nations.… https://t.co/WBHn4gb1yB
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 27, 2026
So…who has priorities in Uni placements; natural-born Kiwis, or the higher-caste set Indian imports?
Does this mean that the LTSA will approve the Mahindra Thar for sale & use in NZ?
…mmmm…probably not!
If Uni is the issue here, then let the Uni’s here in NZ set-up satellite locations campuses in India itself!
BTW- will India provide NZ with oil?
…mmmm…probably not!
A China replacement due to the upcoming expansion of the Middle East War?…
Maybe even replacing Oz as a trading partner due to Australia’s support for the Zionist Regimes overseas and the fact that Oz is basically now a broken country, much like it’s Israeli-controlled partner, the ‘Good Ol’ U-S-of-A!
Not my PM.
A dangerous caricature of a buffoon.
Not our government.
Hasn’t been for quite some years now – if it ever was.
Klaus Schwab look-alike.
The “free trade” only cost US$20 BILLION. (They used US$ hoping you weren’t going to think it was NZ$35 BILLION.)
Don’t vote Labour, National or ACT. Lets see them out of office for good.
A vote for Peters is a vote for Labour.