India, New Zealand Revive Free Trade Negotiations

India and New Zealand have revived long-delayed free trade negotiations, with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announcing the restart of talks after arriving in New Delhi on Monday.

New Zealand’s attempts to secure a free trade deal with India had stalled nearly a decade ago, with one of the key obstacles being access to India’s heavily protected dairy sector. New Zealand, a major milk producer, has long sought to expand its market access in India.

"I’ve arrived in Delhi and am pleased to announce that New Zealand and India have agreed to launch negotiations for a comprehensive free trade agreement," Luxon said in a statement. "Through trade, we can strengthen both economies, creating more jobs and improving incomes for both Kiwis and Indians."

Luxon is set to meet with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi later today to further discuss the deal.