India–New Zealand free-trade agreement enters into force on 20 October
The agreement entered into force on 20 October 2026. Indian exports receive duty-free access to New Zealand, while imports into India follow negotiated schedules and exclusions.
The India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement entered into force on 20 October 2026 after both countries completed ratification. India’s Commerce Ministry says all tariff lines covering Indian exports to New Zealand receive zero-duty access from the start; New Zealand goods entering India follow negotiated concessions and phase-ins.
The confirmed date
India’s Ministry of Commerce announced the entry-into-force date on 21 September, and New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade records 20 October 2026 as the effective date. The agreement was signed on 27 April 2026, so signing and implementation are separate milestones.
What changes for trade
The Indian government says all tariff lines for Indian exports to New Zealand receive duty-free access from day one. New Zealand’s concessions for goods entering India are governed by negotiated schedules, rules of origin and exclusions, so it is incorrect to assume every import is immediately duty-free. Exporters should verify product classification, origin documentation and applicable standards before pricing a shipment.
Editorial note
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Frequently asked questions
When did the FTA enter into force?
The official Indian and New Zealand government sources list 20 October 2026.
Does every New Zealand import into India get immediate zero duty?
No. Product schedules, phase-ins, origin rules and exclusions apply.