NZIBF Congratulates Labour on backing the India FTA
The International Business Forum (NZIBF) has warmly welcomed and congratulated the New Zealand Labour Party on its support for the New Zealand–India Free Trade Agreement, describing it as a clear affirmation of the importance of a stable and predictable approach to trade policy.
Executive Director Felicity Roxburgh said bipartisan backing of the agreement provides exporters with greater certainty as they invest and plan for future engagement in the Indian market.
“Our ability to compete and sell into global markets underpins jobs, drives incomes, and funds the public services New Zealanders depend on. Bipartisan support for this deal gives businesses the confidence to take a long-term view.”
Roxburgh said the agreement represents a significant step forward in reaching India’s 1.4 billion consumers.
“This is about more than market access, it is about the farmers, growers, manufacturers and innovators behind our export sectors, and the communities across New Zealand that depend on them.”
Roxburgh said the agreement marks a critical development in New Zealand’s engagement with India, one of the world’s fastest growing and most strategically important economies.
“India represents a major opportunity. This agreement begins to break down barriers and opens the door to deeper commercial relationships across a wide range of sectors.”
“In a world shaped by rising protectionism and geopolitical tension, standing still is not an option. Securing improved access to markets like India strengthens New Zealand’s resilience, spreads risk, and ensures our exporters remain competitive.”
NZIBF has consistently supported the agreement since the conclusion of negotiations, despite expressing disappointment on dairy outcomes. The deal delivers commercially meaningful benefits across sectors including kiwifruit, apples, sheep meat, seafood and wine, creating new opportunities for growth.
NZIBF said it looks forward to contributing to the select committee process.
“We are focused on working constructively with government to ensure New Zealand businesses are well positioned to take full advantage of the opportunities this agreement creates, and that these are translated into real commercial outcomes for exporters.”
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