Swapna Kumbar , Bengaluru - New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has said the India-New Zealand free trade deal will give tariff-free access from day one for a large share of goods, ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit. The agreement was signed in April 2026 and is now being presented as one of the fastest trade deals New Zealand has ever concluded.

Under the deal, all Indian exports to New Zealand will eventually become duty-free, while about 95% of New Zealand’s current exports to India will either be tariff-free or face reduced tariffs. New Zealand officials say the arrangement opens access for products such as apples, kiwifruit, honey, seafood and wool, while India will gain improved access for textiles, leather, pharmaceuticals, engineering goods and automobiles. The pact also includes better visa access for Indian professionals and students, plus a plan for New Zealand investment into India over the coming years.

Luxon has framed the deal as a major economic opportunity, saying India’s fast-growing market offers broad benefits for exporters and investors. The announcement comes as both countries try to deepen ties beyond trade, including cooperation in education, services and broader strategic engagement. For New Zealand, the “tariff-free from day one” message is meant to signal quick wins for exporters even before the agreement fully enters into force.

The announcement is designed to build momentum before Modi’s visit and to sell the deal as a practical boost for businesses on both sides. If implemented as described, it would mark a major shift in India-New Zealand economic relations and create one of New Zealand’s most important access agreements with a large Asian market.