The New Zealand red meat sector has welcomed the Labour Party’s decision to support the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (the FTA), underscoring the importance of cross‑party backing for trade agreements that deliver long‑term benefits for farmers and exporters.
“This FTA brings New Zealand’s red meat sector one step closer to unlocking new opportunities from a market with considerable long-term potential, and we welcome the Labour Party’s support,” says Nathan Guy, independent chair of the Meat Industry Association (MIA).
“Globally our exporters are facing rising protectionism, uncertainty and volatility. Access to different markets is key to help us weather market dynamics as it provides the sector with options and creates resilience supporting farm-gate returns and the national economy.”
“That is why MIA and Beef + Lamb New Zealand have both been advocating for cross-party support for the FTA.”
Beef + Lamb New Zealand chair Kate Acland says Labour’s support sends an important signal of stability to international partners.
“Trade policy works best when it rises above day-to-day politics,” says Kate Acland. “Labour’s decision to support the India–New Zealand FTA reflects a shared recognition that this FTA, and free trade more broadly, is fundamental to the future prosperity of the red meat sector and New Zealand.”
“It has taken nearly 20 years to conclude this negotiation, and we would like to see it quickly passed by the respective Parliaments. As with some of our other FTAs, it will be possible to negotiate improvements in the future.”
“This year, India surpassed China as the most populous country in the world. It is projected to become the world’s third-largest economy within five years, and its middle class is growing.
“In addition to unlocking a promising market that has been constrained due to the 33 percent tariff currently on New Zealand sheepmeat, an FTA will also deliver important additional options for our exporters, spread risk and provide greater stability.”
ENDS
For media enquiries, please contact:
- Leigh Shaw, MIA
027 847 0100 or [email protected]
- Sam Halstead, B+LNZ
027 474 6065 or [email protected]