Māori Trade Leadership Instrumental in Developing Major New Zealand-India Trade Partnership

Professional business diplomacy and relationship building have paved the way for a major free trade agreement (FTA) between New Zealand and India, with Māori leadership playing a central role at the negotiating table. Te Taumata Māori trade board chair Hone McGregor was among a select group of business representatives in New Delhi for the signing ceremony, highlighting the importance of Māori commercial interests in the world’s fastest-growing economy. The deal, which is currently before Parliament for approval and expected to be ratified later this year, marks a significant shift in New Zealand's approach to international trade. According to industry leaders, the success of the negotiations rested on moving away from a purely transactional focus to one centered on long-term relationships. This "business diplomacy" is projected to generate an additional $1 billion for New Zealand exports annually over the next 20 years, as reported by the New Zealand Herald. Hone McGregor was joined at the ceremony by prominent figures including Auckland Business Chamber CEO Simon Bridges, BusinessNZ CEO Katherine Rich, and ExportNZ CEO Joshua Tan. The agreement is set to eliminate or significantly reduce tariffs on 95 percent of New Zealand exports to India. Immediate tariff savings are estimated at $43 million on the first day of the agreement, potentially rising to $62 million based on current trade levels. Leaders involved in the process noted that the relationship-first approach was "absolutely critical" in maintaining political momentum. By fostering a wider atmosphere of cooperation and sincerity, the delegation helped transition India’s historical skepticism toward free trade into a formal partnership. Trade Minister Todd McClay was also credited for his personal efforts in pushing the agreement forward through established relationships. As trade volumes grow, these diplomatic foundations are expected to provide lasting benefits for Māori exporters and the wider New Zealand economy.