Trade Minister Todd McClay has called last week's conclusion of in-person negotiations for a comprehensive India-New Zealand free trade deal "an important step forward".
Following significant remote engagement over the past month, the first in-person round of negotiations were held in India last week.
"Talks were constructive and saw progress across key areas," McClay said.
"Negotiators remain in close contact and will continue exchanging documents and technical information in the lead-up to the next round," he said.
"Both governments are committed to delivering high-quality outcomes that benefit exporters and consumers alike."
In a press statement, India's Ministry of Commerce and Industry noted the negotiations in New Delhi "builds on the shared commitment to deepen economic ties" expressed during Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's visit to India in March on which he met his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi.
"Constructive negotiations were held across all areas of FTA, including trade in goods and services, trade facilitation and mutually beneficial sectors of economic cooperation," the statement said.
"This engagement highlights the strategic importance both partners attach to building a mutually beneficial, balanced and a fair-trade agreement."
The statement said the next round of talks would be held in July.
"Both countries reaffirmed their common vision and mutual understanding to work towards a future ready framework and conclude the FTA this year," the statement said.
This article was first published by RNZ
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