The India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) enters into force today, opening new opportunities for India’s gem and jewellery exporters to strengthen their presence in the New Zealand market through duty-free access and enhanced competitiveness.
India’s gem and jewellery exports to New Zealand stood at US$ 25.43 million in FY 2025-26. GJEPC aims to double exports to US$ 50 million over the next two years, leveraging New Zealand’s high per capita jewellery consumption and growing opportunities for Indian designs and craftsmanship.
Shri Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC, thanked Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for his vision in expanding India’s global trade partnerships and Hon’ble Minister of Commerce and Industry Shri Piyush Goyal for his sustained efforts in advancing the India-New Zealand FTA.
He said, “The FTA opens up significant opportunities for Indian gem and jewellery exporters in New Zealand, a market with high per capita jewellery consumption. Duty-free access will strengthen our competitiveness, deepen business partnerships and create opportunities for greater trade and investment. We aim to double our exports to New Zealand to US$ 50 million over the next two years.”
On this occasion, GJEPC facilitated the participation of gem and jewellery exporters from different regions of India, highlighting the country’s diverse manufacturing capabilities and export potential under the India-New Zealand FTA. From eastern India, Hasmukh Parekh Jewellers, Kolkata, exported gold jewellery, while Padmesh Industries Private Limited, Odisha, exported GI-tagged silver filigree jewellery. From southern India, Emerald Jewel Industry India Ltd, Chennai, exported gold jewellery. From western India, Jewelex Group and Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Mumbai, exported gold jewellery, while SRK, Mumbai, exported cut and polished diamonds.
GJEPC will facilitate buyer-seller meets (BSMs) and encourage exporters, including MSMEs, to leverage the agreement through market-specific designs, consistent quality and reliable delivery, helping them establish long-term business partnerships and drive export growth in New Zealand.