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- By Parmjeet Parmar, Pakuranga-based ACT List MP
I recently returned from an official visit to India with the Prime Minister.
As an Indian-born MP, the journey was a chance to connect with my roots, and with communities that hold strong ties to the Indian diaspora in New Zealand.
The trip was also a significant, and I think successful, opportunity to strengthen the political and economic ties between our two nations.
Our group of delegates visited the Rakab Ganj Sikh Temple with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
We were hosted by community groups and met with several businesses.
These discussions were centred around enhancing trade relations, educational exchanges, and technological collaborations.
India’s Minister of Commerce spoke to a forum, including the delegation, exploring opportunities for New Zealand businesses in India and vice versa.
Another highlight was the joint announcement from Air New Zealand and Air India that they are aiming for direct flights between New Zealand and India by late 2028.
In the meantime, a new codeshare between the airlines will enable passengers to fly from major Indian cities via Australia or Singapore, connecting onto Air New Zealand flights for the final leg to New Zealand.
The Prime Minister was accompanied by a large delegation of senior New Zealand business leaders and community representatives.
This visit underscored the Government’s commitment to strengthening our relationship with India.
The Prime Minister’s meetings with Prime Minister Modi focused on deepening political and security ties, as well as exploring new avenues for economic cooperation.
Another significant development during my trip was the resumption of bilateral negotiations on the New Zealand-India Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
This marks a major milestone. When two countries trade, both are better off.
Currently, our major exports to India include wool, metals, wood pulp, and fruits like apples and pears.
Meanwhile, New Zealanders are buying Indian linens, medicines, machinery, and rice.
But trade barriers like tariffs and quotas currently restrict the potential for our exporters to tap into the massive Indian market.
With India poised to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2030, a free trade agreement holds immense potential for New Zealand and could double our exports to India by value over the next decade.
Public consultation on these negotiations is now open, which means if you’re interested in trade with India you can share your views online at www.mfat.govt.nz/have-your-say.
