New Delhi: India and New Zealand have officially resumed negotiations for a long-pending free trade agreement (FTA) after talks stalled in 2015.

The two countries initially launched discussions on the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) in April 2010 to enhance trade in goods, services, and investment. However, after nine rounds of negotiations, progress came to a halt in 2015.

In a joint statement, the commerce ministry confirmed the resumption of discussions, stating that both nations aim to finalize a “comprehensive and mutually beneficial” agreement.

The announcement coincides with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s four-day visit to India, which began on March 16. It follows a high-level meeting between India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and New Zealand’s Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay.

“The India-New Zealand FTA negotiations aim to achieve balanced outcomes that enhance supply chain integration and improve market access,” the statement said.

The revival of talks is expected to strengthen economic ties and open new trade opportunities for both nations.