India, New Zealand Conclude Second Round of FTA Talks in New Delhi

India and New Zealand successfully concluded the second round of negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) in New Delhi, advancing progress across key areas such as trade in goods and services, investment, customs procedures, technical barriers, and economic cooperation. The talks, initiated following New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's visit to India in March 2025, reflect a mutual commitment to achieving a balanced, comprehensive, and forward-looking agreement. Bilateral merchandise trade between the two countries reached $1.3 billion in the fiscal year 2024-25, marking a 48.6% increase from the previous year, highlighting the growing economic partnership. The third round of negotiations is scheduled to take place in New Zealand in September 2025, with virtual meetings planned beforehand to maintain momentum. This FTA effort complements India's broader strategy to expand global trade ties, including recent agreements with the UK and ongoing talks with the EU and US. Both sides expressed optimism about the potential of the agreement to enhance trade flows, investment linkages, and supply chain resilience.