Piyush Goyal meets New Zealand Trade Minister, reviews FTA progress

New Delhi: Piyush Goyal New Zealand meeting focused on trade ties, WTO reforms and preparations for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal held bilateral talks with Todd McClay on the sidelines of the WTO Ministerial Conference 14.

Piyush Goyal New Zealand meeting reviews FTA progress

Both leaders reviewed progress on the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA). They also discussed cooperation beyond the FTA framework.

The talks covered agriculture and sports sectors. In particular, they explored training Indian farmers in kiwi and apple cultivation.

New Zealand confirmed that both sides are finalising key deliverables for Modi’s visit. It will also host a high-level business delegation during the trip.

Focus on WTO reforms and global trade issues

The ministers exchanged views on WTO reforms. India stressed the need for a member-driven approach.

Piyush Goyal said the General Council must lead reform efforts. He also highlighted the need to resolve pending issues to maintain WTO credibility.

Discussions included the moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmissions. They also reviewed the Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement.

New Zealand supported greater engagement among member nations. It emphasised the need to keep WTO processes effective despite global challenges.

Earlier, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal met Vangelis Vitalis to discuss trade and economic cooperation.