Indian FTA 'opens doors for dairy'
A New Zealand dairy industry leader believes the free trade deal announced with India delivers wins for the sector.
A New Zealand dairy industry leader believes the free trade deal announced with India delivers wins for the sector.
Written on Wednesday, 24 December 2025 17:11
The Coalition Government will need the support of at least one opposition party to ratify the free trade deal with India.
Primary sector leaders have welcomed the announcement of a Free Trade Agreement between India and New Zealand.
At Pāmu’s Kepler Farm in Manapouri, mating has wrapped up at the across-breed Beef Progeny Test.
More than 150 people turned up at Parliament recently to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ).
Biosecurity New Zealand says Kiwis should continue to keep an eye out for yellow-legged hornets (Vespa velutina) over the holiday season.
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