Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) welcomes the New Zealand Government’s announcement that comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations have formally commenced with India.
B+LNZ Chair Kate Acland says this marks a significant step forward for New Zealand’s red meat sector, unlocking new opportunities for exporters.
"We welcome the Government’s announcement today and applaud the efforts of Minister McClay, who has worked determinedly over the last 16 months to make this happen.
“India presents an abundance of opportunities, and a comprehensive, commercially meaningful FTA could be one of the most important trade agreements we’ve secured since China."
“An FTA with India would unlock an important market that had previously been somewhat closed to us due to the 30 percent tariff currently on sheepmeat.”
“There is immense potential of strengthening trade ties with India, which is set to become the world’s third-largest economy within the next five years.”
"By 2030, India is projected to have an additional 140 million middle-class households and 21 million high-income households. With rising demand for high-quality, nutritious sheepmeat and domestic production unable to meet this demand, New Zealand is well-placed to supply premium products to this growing market."
Beyond sheepmeat, India offers significant market opportunities for New Zealand co-products, including pharmaceuticals, wool, and pet food.
"A comprehensive and commercially meaningful FTA must deliver tariff liberalisation for these products and reduce non-tariff barriers to ensure increased access for New Zealand exporters," adds Acland.
For more than 40 years, New Zealand has been committed to securing FTAs to open as many doors as possible for exporters. This agreement with India could be one of the most transformative yet, enhancing trade diversification and economic resilience.
B+LNZ stresses that achieving high-quality outcomes will take time and that strong, long-term relationships will be key to maximising trade potential.
"We look forward to working closely with the Government to ensure this agreement delivers tangible, commercially beneficial outcomes for our sector.”
ENDS
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