In April this year, the two nations signed a free
trade agreement that will eliminate 95% of tariffs on goods from New
Zealand. The bilateral merchandise trade between the two countries stood at
$1.3 billion in 2024-25, while total trade in goods and services reached about
$2.4 billion in 2024, with services trade alone reaching $1.24 billion, led by
travel, IT, and business services.
Mr. Modi’s upcoming
visit reflects the growing momentum in the New Zealand-India relationship, a
statement from Wellington said. The discussions between the leaders are
expected to include trade and investment, maritime security, education, technology, tourism, sport,
and global issues. Ahead of his
departure from Delhi, Mr. Modi said his visit to Indonesia, Australia and New
Zealand will further strengthen India’s Act East Policy, MAHASAGAR Vision as
well as “our outlook towards a free and open Indo-Pacific.” MAHASAGAR, or Mutual and
Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions, is India’s vision of
security and growth for all regions.