India is set to enhance its international trade relationships with the implementation of a free trade agreement (FTA) with New Zealand and ongoing negotiations with Canada. The India-New Zealand FTA, which was signed in April 2026, will officially take effect on October 20, 2026. This agreement is expected to provide duty-free access to Indian exports entering New Zealand, with sectors such as textiles, leather, footwear, engineering goods, and processed agricultural products anticipated to benefit significantly.
Simultaneously, India is working towards finalizing a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with Canada by the end of the year. These negotiations cover a broad range of areas including trade in goods and services, investment, rules of origin, intellectual property rights, and trade remedies. The fifth round of talks concluded in Ottawa from October 5 to 9, with the next round scheduled to occur in early November in New Delhi.
The efforts to establish these agreements are part of India’s broader strategy to diversify its export markets and fortify its position in the global trade arena. By securing such deals, India aims to open new export opportunities and strengthen economic ties with key international partners.
Besides its focus on New Zealand and Canada, India is also engaged in trade negotiations with countries like the United States, Israel, Chile, and Peru. Additionally, India is reviewing or upgrading existing agreements with nations such as Australia, ASEAN, South Korea, and Sri Lanka. These initiatives are in response to changing global trade policies and are designed to improve access for Indian businesses worldwide.
As India continues to pursue these strategic trade partnerships, the nation aims to bolster its economic growth by expanding its reach into new markets and enhancing its competitive edge globally.