India is set to implement its free trade agreement (FTA) with New Zealand on October 20, 2026, marking a significant step in its strategy to bolster international trade relations. This agreement, signed in April 2026, will grant duty-free access to Indian exports entering the New Zealand market, with key beneficiaries expected to include sectors such as textiles, leather, footwear, engineering goods, and processed agricultural products. As India aims to broaden its export horizons, it concurrently intensifies efforts to finalize a trade deal with Canada by year-end.
The India-Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is currently under negotiation, with discussions encompassing trade in goods and services, investment, rules of origin, intellectual property rights, and trade remedies. The fifth round of negotiations was held in Ottawa from October 5 to 9, with a subsequent round slated for early November in New Delhi. This proposed agreement reflects India’s pursuit of enhanced trade partnerships to align with evolving global trade dynamics.
Beyond its engagements with New Zealand and Canada, India is actively pursuing trade negotiations with other international partners, including the United States, Israel, Chile, and Peru. Additionally, India is reviewing or upgrading existing agreements with countries such as Australia, ASEAN, South Korea, and Sri Lanka. These initiatives aim to diversify India’s export destinations and improve market access for Indian businesses amid shifting global trade policies.
India’s strategic moves in the trade domain underscore its commitment to expanding its economic footprint on the global stage. By securing new agreements and enhancing existing ones, India seeks to create more opportunities for its domestic industries and strengthen its position in international markets.