Overview
- The fourth round of negotiations began on November 3 in Auckland and continues through November 7, with ministers Piyush Goyal and Todd McClay and Prime Minister Christopher Luxon participating in events on November 5.
- Piyush Goyal said India will not compromise on sensitive areas such as dairy, farmers and MSMEs, adding that a deal is on the table and may not require many more rounds.
- Todd McClay said agricultural technology collaboration is a major focus, offering New Zealand science and innovations to help raise Indian farm productivity and incomes.
- Christopher Luxon identified labour mobility and people-to-people ties as important parts of the proposed agreement, while Goyal clarified that immigration is not negotiated in FTAs and mobility relates to services and training.
- Air India and Air New Zealand are working toward launching direct flights by 2028, and official data show two-way trade of about USD 1.75 billion in 2023–24, underscoring room for expansion.