New Zealand’s Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, is in India this week, hoping to strengthen trade ties between the two nations. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Winston Peters is in the United States, navigating changes in American foreign policy.
Luxon’s trip to India is focused on trade, especially his goal of securing a free trade agreement. However, experts say New Zealand may need to leave dairy products out of the deal, as India protects its local farmers. Luxon has softened his stance, now calling it a “comprehensive economic partnership” rather than a full trade agreement. His visit includes stops in Delhi and Mumbai, where he is meeting business leaders and government officials.
Trade Minister Todd McClay has already visited India four times this year, signalling New Zealand’s strong interest in a deal. India has signed trade agreements with Australia and European countries, so there is hope that New Zealand can follow a similar path.
Meanwhile, Winston Peters is in the United States, calling recent changes in U.S. trade and foreign policy “a whole new world.” With the U.S. now New Zealand’s second-largest trading partner, Peters wants to understand how new policies could impact businesses back home. Peters says New Zealand will wait for “the dust to settle” before making key decisions.
