Goyal met New Zealand’s Trade Minister Todd McClay in the fourth FTA negotiation round, discussing goods, services, investments, and technical cooperation to create a balanced, forward-looking pact
NEW DELHI
India and New Zealand are working toward the early conclusion of a comprehensive and balanced free trade agreement (FTA), Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said after concluding his official visit to New Zealand on Friday.
Goyal met New Zealand’s Trade Minister Todd McClay during the fourth round of FTA negotiations, which focused on market access for goods, services, investments, and technical cooperation. The minister described the discussions as constructive and forward-looking, aiming to create a pact that balances both nations’ economic interests and sensitivities.
“Concluded my fruitful visit to New Zealand with a meeting with my friend and counterpart, Todd McClay,” Goyal wrote on X (formerly Twitter). He emphasized that both sides are committed to deepening their strategic and economic convergence through stronger trade and investment links.
During his visit, Goyal engaged with business leaders from both countries and attended multiple events celebrating the cultural and people-to-people ties between India and New Zealand.
He also addressed the India–New Zealand CEOs Roundtable in Rotorua, McClay’s hometown, encouraging New Zealand companies to partner more closely with Indian industries in sectors like technology, agriculture, education, clean energy, and sustainability.
Goyal expressed gratitude to McClay for hosting him, saying both countries are “gearing up to take India–New Zealand ties to the next level.” The minister noted that the FTA aims to open new opportunities for businesses and consumers, strengthening economic cooperation between the two Indo-Pacific partners.
