The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) has welcomed the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA), signed by Piyush Goyal, India’s Commerce & Industry Minister, and Todd McClay, New Zealand’s Minister for Trade and Investment. The council described the agreement as a major step forward in expanding opportunities for India’s textile and apparel sector.
AEPC Chairman Dr. A. Sakthivel stated,
“This forward-looking agreement is a major boost for India’s apparel exporters. With 100% duty-free access to the New Zealand market, Indian products will gain immediate price competitiveness, particularly in labour-intensive segments such as garments and textiles. This will support higher export volumes, job creation, and growth of MSMEs across the value chain.”
He pointed out that New Zealand currently imports more than USD 1.2 billion worth of ready-made garments annually, while India’s share remains around 4.4%. The FTA, he noted, presents a strong opportunity to expand India’s footprint in categories such as cotton T-shirts, shirts, knitwear, and other garments.
Dr. Sakthivel further emphasized that the agreement could potentially triple India’s ready-made garment (RMG) exports to New Zealand within the next two years, driven by improved market access and enhanced competitiveness.
AEPC also highlighted that the agreement complements India’s strength in cotton-based apparel while creating opportunities to diversify into man-made fibre segments in line with New Zealand’s import trends.
Underlining the broader impact, Dr. Sakthivel said,
“The textiles and clothing sector, being one of the largest employment generators in the country, stands to benefit immensely from this agreement. It will strengthen India’s position as a reliable sourcing destination and drive sustainable export growth.”
Reaffirming its commitment, AEPC stated it will support exporters in maximizing the benefits of the FTA through targeted market outreach, capacity building, and export promotion programs.
“This agreement opens a new chapter for India’s apparel exports to New Zealand. AEPC will work closely with the industry to translate this opportunity into tangible gains,” Dr. Sakthivel added.