India–New Zealand FTA Set to Boost Textile Exports, Says CITI

India–New Zealand FTA to Boost Textile and Apparel Exports: CITI

The Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI) has welcomed the conclusion of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations between India and New Zealand, stating that it will significantly benefit India’s textile and apparel sector by opening access to new markets.

Under the India–New Zealand FTA, 100% of Indian exports will receive zero-duty market access. In 2024, India was the third-largest exporter of textile and apparel products to New Zealand, after China and Bangladesh, with exports valued at $138.65 million.

CITI Chairman Ashwin Chandran said the agreement, concluded shortly after the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with Oman, reflects India’s strong focus on trade diversification. He noted that for the textile and apparel industry, the FTA will create expanded market access opportunities and encourage exporters to diversify their product basket.

He further stated that CITI expresses gratitude to the Prime Minister, Commerce Minister, and concerned authorities for the swift conclusion of negotiations, highlighting the strong potential of Indian textile exports in the New Zealand market.

According to CITI, the FTA will help Indian exporters reduce dependence on a limited number of markets and support the country’s goal of achieving $100 billion in textile and apparel exports by 2030. It will also improve price competitiveness and enhance the attractiveness of Indian products for buyers in New Zealand.

India has recently signed several trade agreements, including the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) with the United Kingdom. Negotiations are also in advanced stages with the European Union and other countries, while a bilateral trade agreement with the United States is under discussion.

India’s total textile and apparel exports stood at approximately $38 billion in FY2024–25.

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