FIEO Welcomes India–New Zealand FTA, Sees Boost For Exports And MSMEs 

New Delhi, Apr 28 (KNN) The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) has welcomed the signing of the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA), calling it a significant milestone in expanding India’s global trade footprint.

FIEO President S C Ralhan said the agreement will open new avenues for Indian exporters by enhancing market access to New Zealand across key sectors.

Wider market access across sectors

According to FIEO, the FTA will benefit a broad range of industries, including agriculture and processed food, textiles and pharmaceuticals, engineering goods and services such as IT & ITES, business services, education, construction and healthcare.

Reduced tariff barriers and simplified trade procedures are expected to improve the competitiveness of Indian products in the New Zealand market.

Boost for MSMEs and export diversification

Ralhan emphasised that the pact will help diversify India’s export destinations and reduce dependence on traditional markets.

“This agreement presents immense opportunities for exporters, particularly MSMEs, to tap into a high-value market with growing demand for quality goods and services,” he said.

New opportunities in niche segments

FIEO highlighted emerging opportunities in processed food and organic products, dairy alternatives and AYUSH products, which will gain market access for the first time.

The Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) for organic certification is expected to further ease entry for Indian organic products.

The agreement is also likely to benefit the services sector through enhanced mobility provisions and mutual recognition of professional qualifications.

Need for preparedness

FIEO urged exporters to familiarise themselves with rules of origin, compliance requirements and regulatory frameworks. It stressed the importance of capacity building, market intelligence and government support to fully leverage the agreement.

The organisation also called on the government to work closely with industry to tackle non-tariff barriers, high logistics costs and awareness gaps among exporters.

Strengthening trade facilitation infrastructure and ease of doing business will be key to maximising gains from the FTA.

The Federation of Indian Export Organisations said the agreement is expected to more than double bilateral trade and create a strong platform for long-term economic cooperation between India and New Zealand.

(KNN Bureau)