India-New Zealand FTA to deepen strategic ties: Todd McClay

July 11, 2026

New Zealand’s Minister for Trade and Investment, Hon Todd McClay, on Friday described Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to New Zealand as a very significant milestone, saying it comes at a transformative moment in bilateral ties following the signing of the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

In an exclusive interview, McClay said the FTA would unlock new opportunities across trade, technology, agriculture and investment, while also strengthening cooperation amid global geopolitical uncertainties.

Here are the excerpts of the interview:

Question: How significant is Prime Minister Modi’s visit to New Zealand?

Todd McClay: It is very significant. It is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in 40 years, and it comes just a few months after we signed our Free Trade Agreement. There will be a major celebration in our largest city, and New Zealanders are looking forward to welcoming Prime Minister Modi, especially the Indian-New Zealand community.

The Indian diaspora is now our third-largest ethnic community, and many people will turn out to welcome him and make him feel at home.

Question: How is the India-New Zealand FTA going to boost trade ties, especially in emerging technologies like critical minerals and MSMEs?

Todd McClay: Quite significantly. It is one of the highest-quality trade agreements either of our countries has negotiated. It creates greater cooperation and gives businesses the confidence to work together under a trusted rules-based framework.

Across sectors, including information and communications technology, we expect partnerships to grow rapidly. The agreement enables businesses to find high-quality partners and build longterm, sustainable relationships. Beyond trade, it will strengthen cooperation in science, people-to-people exchanges, culture and sports.