Tuesday, 10 February 2026 13:25

NZ–India free trade agreement opens door to fast-growing wine market

Written by Staff Reporters

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Saint Clair Family Estate has been supplying Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir to its partners in India since 2013.

The New Zealand-India Free Trade Agreement concluded in December is "a significant step toward unlocking one of the world's largest and fastest growing consumer markets", says New Zealand Winegrowers Chief Executive Philip Gregan.

"The phased reduction of India's wine tariffs and the inclusion of a Most Favoured Nations (MFN) is a signal that the Indian market is opening up; this will encourage wineries to build their involvement in the India market over the coming decade."

The agreement, expected to be signed in the first half of 2026, will see India's tariffs on wine reduced from 150% to either 25 or 50%, depending on the value of the wine, over 10 years.

In addition, wine will receive MFN treatment, meaning any future FTA that India concludes with another country on more favourable wine tariffs will automatically be extended to New Zealand wine.

While current exports to India were under NZ$300,000 in 2025, improved market access under the FTA is expected to make India increasingly attractive to New Zealand wine exporters over the coming years.

Saint Clair Family Estate has been supplying Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir to its partners in India since 2013, says Account and Brand Manager Nick Williamson.

"We are excited to see what further opportunities the FTA can provide us. It is always promising to see export trade barriers ease, and we look forward to increasing exports to the ever-growing Indian market."