NZ Forestry Exports to India Now Tariff Free
More than 95 per cent of New Zealand’s forestry and wood exports to India can now enter tariff free as the New Zealand-India Free Trade Agreement comes into force today.
Meat Industry Association (MIA) independent chair Nathan Guy said the agreement gives exporters more options in a challenging global trading environment.
“Red meat exporters are operating in the face of rising protectionism and continued volatility. Broader market access like this helps diversify risk, strengthen resilience and provide greater stability for exporters,” Guy said.
“India is a market with significant long-term potential. Removing the tariff on sheepmeat from day one improves our competitive position and gives exporters a practical basis for building relationships and demand over time.”
Long-Term Promise
Beef + Lamb New Zealand chair Kate Acland said the agreement strengthens New Zealand’s position in a market with long-term promise.
“India is the world’s most populous country and is expected to become the third-largest economy in the coming years. As incomes rise, demand for high-quality natural protein from New Zealand is also expected to grow,” Acland said.
“The removal of the 33 per cent tariff on New Zealand sheepmeat is an important first step. It gives the red meat sector a foundation from which to develop the market as consumer demand grows.”
“Over time, the FTA should support greater market diversification, strengthen the red meat sector’s resilience and create more export opportunities for New Zealand,” she said.
