In a defining milestone for India’s engagement with developed economies, India and New Zealand are set to sign a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) today, April 27, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam. This “women-led” pact, negotiated largely by a female team, aims to double bilateral trade to $5 billion within five years. Under the agreement, New Zealand will eliminate tariffs on 100% of Indian exports, providing a massive boost to labor-intensive sectors like textiles, leather, and gems. In return, India will grant market access to 95% of New Zealand’s goods, including wool, wine, and fruit, while strictly excluding sensitive dairy and poultry products to protect domestic farmers. Beyond goods, the deal facilitates $20 billion in investment into India over 15 years and secures 5,000 annual visas for Indian professionals in sectors ranging from IT and healthcare to yoga and traditional music.