If signed this year, the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) could deliver direct value to provincial horticultural communities, says New Zealand Apples and Pears Chief Executive Danielle Adsett.
Access to high-value international markets is crucial to sustaining the economic footprint of New Zealand’s pipfruit industry and the employment of more than 13,000 Kiwis, she says.
“Our sector exists almost entirely in regional New Zealand. International trade is what sustains jobs, supports local businesses and helps keep those communities viable,” says Adsett.
“When exports perform well, the benefits flow well beyond the orchard gate, into regional employment, household incomes and the infrastructure and services those communities depend on. But for exports to perform well, our members need to have access to a variety of markets, particularly at a time when operating costs are rising and access to global markets remain volatile.”
New Zealand was the first nation to secure the inclusion of apples within an FTA with India, something Adsett describes as “no small feat”.
“India has its own, vibrant apple industry that they are rightly protective of. The inclusion of apples within this FTA is a huge win for our sector. Our industry was deeply engaged with the negotiation team during discussions, and we are confident in the result for our sector.
“However, timing is critical. India has signed further agreements since ours and if the ratification of ours is pushed out to post-election, then we run the very real risk of losing our edge.”
The wide-ranging benefits reflect the long-standing, cross-party approach taken by successive governments to building trade relationships with India.
“Trade is a strategic priority for New Zealand, and NZAPI acknowledges successive Governments in contributing to this. Agreements such as this do not happen overnight and it takes Governments of all stripes to recognise the downstream benefits and put in the time and effort to get these across the line. We will not get a second chance.”
By signing the FTA as soon as possible, New Zealand stands to gain significantly at the one-year review mark, says Adsett.
“Signing and ratifying this FTA would be the foundation stone for ongoing engagement and improvement over many years, something our growers, their employees and their communities, stand to benefit greatly from.”
NZAPI is encouraging all Members of Parliament to support the agreement and provide certainty for growers, exporters and regional New Zealand.
“New Zealand cannot survive by selling to ourselves. Clear decisions on market access allows growers and exporters to plan, invest and grow – driving jobs, confidence and long-term resilience in regional communities.”