Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal’s visit opens a new chapter in trade, innovation, and people-to-people ties
Auckland, 5 November 2025 – The Indian High Commission hosted a memorable evening at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre in Auckland to welcome Hon. Piyush Goyal, India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry.
The event, led by High Commissioner Mrs. Neeta Bhushan, brought together Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Trade Minister Todd McClay, Consul General Mr. Madan Mohan Shethi, and community leaders from across New Zealand.
WebfitNews covered the program to highlight the strengthening partnership between India and New Zealand.
A Defining Visit for Bilateral Relations
Minister Goyal’s visit marked a major step forward in relations between the two nations. It followed Prime Minister Luxon’s successful trip to India earlier this year. During that visit, both sides signed over 30 Memoranda of Understanding covering education, agriculture, defence, irrigation, innovation, and research.
These agreements have created the foundation for discussions on a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) or Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and New Zealand.
Such a deal would make trade simpler, attract investment, and expand cooperation in areas like technology, science, and higher education.
In addition, it could serve as a gateway for new joint ventures that benefit both economies.
Neeta Bhushan: “An Honour to Represent Our Dynamic Community”
High Commissioner Neeta Bhushan opened her remarks by thanking both governments and the Indian diaspora for their efforts in strengthening bilateral ties.
“The Indian community plays a key role in promoting links between our two great countries,” she said.
She praised Prime Minister Christopher Luxon for his continued support, noting that he has attended nearly every Indian community event during the last two years.
“We feel honoured by your love and affection,” she added with warmth.
Bhushan also expressed appreciation to Trade Minister Todd McClay for his ongoing engagement, describing him as “a friend and partner to all.”
Turning her attention to Hon. Piyush Goyal, she called the visit “historic,” pointing out that it was the first by an Indian Commerce and Industry Minister exclusively to New Zealand.
“Your leadership inspires people everywhere, and we are delighted and privileged to have you with us,” she said.
Before closing, she acknowledged the contributions of the Indian community in politics, business, culture, and the arts.
“It is a great privilege to be your High Commissioner. I hope you will continue bringing our two countries even closer. Jai Hind.”
The audience responded with enthusiastic applause, reflecting the pride and unity in the room.
Prime Minister Luxon: “Shared Ambition for Prosperity and Peace”
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon reflected on his recent visit to India and spoke about the strong friendship between both two democracies.
He explained that New Zealand and India share complementary strengths and common values.
“We are world leaders in farming, while India is one of the fastest-growing economies. Together we can create value in agriculture, innovation, and space,” he said.
Luxon underlined that the relationship between the two countries is now the strongest in 150 years.
He added that New Zealand is currently the third-largest rocket-launching nation after the United States and China, which highlights the nation’s innovation capacity.
Therefore, closer cooperation in technology, defence, and sustainability is now more important than ever.
Finally, he mentioned that 2026 will mark 100 years since India’s first hockey tour to New Zealand, saying this milestone symbolises deep friendship and cultural respect.
Trade Minister Todd McClay: “Partnerships Begin with People”
Todd McClay brought humour and warmth to the stage, joking that people often ask if he plans to “buy a flat in India” because of his frequent visits.
He said those visits helped him understand the scale of India’s economic transformation and the close ties between both nations.
Furthermore, he reaffirmed New Zealand’s commitment to creating a balanced, forward-looking trade framework that supports farmers, exporters, and entrepreneurs in both countries.
Hon. Piyush Goyal: “Friendship Beyond Tariffs”
Minister Piyush Goyal began by thanking the New Zealand Government and the Indian community for their hospitality.
He said India’s vision of becoming a developed nation relies on partnerships that create knowledge exchange, skill building, and shared prosperity.
“Our partnership offers many opportunities for business and technology exchange,” he said. “It can help farmers in India and innovators in New Zealand.”
He urged both countries to look beyond traditional tariff cuts and to embrace new collaboration in innovation, sustainability, and education.
According to him, genuine friendship creates economic opportunity and builds mutual respect.
“As we aim to make India a developed nation, our friendship with New Zealand will help our people dream bigger and achieve more,” he said confidently.
Minister Goyal ended by stating that the India–New Zealand partnership is entering its most promising era yet, driven by optimism and mutual trust.
The Future of the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement
If the FTA or CECA is finalised, it will transform the trade relationship between both countries.
New Zealand could gain wider access to India’s fast-growing markets for dairy, horticulture, education, and technology. Meanwhile, India would benefit from New Zealand’s expertise in agri-tech, renewable energy, and food safety.
The deal could simplify visa rules, promote academic partnerships, and encourage new investments in start-ups and innovation.
Analysts believe a strong trade pact could add billions of dollars in two-way trade over the next decade, create high-value jobs, and strengthen regional stability.
Moreover, it would reinforce both nations’ roles as trusted partners in the Indo-Pacific region, a zone increasingly vital to global growth and security.
Community Reaction
Community leaders described the evening as both inspiring and historic. Many praised Consul General Madan Mohan Sethi for coordinating a program that balanced diplomacy, culture, and local engagement.
Young professionals said they felt proud to see both governments recognise the achievements of the Indian community and its contribution to New Zealand’s progress.
Overall, the atmosphere reflected shared pride and optimism about the path ahead.
Conclusion
The Auckland reception for Hon. Piyush Goyal represented far more than a formal diplomatic occasion. It embodied the growing friendship between two vibrant democracies.
Guided by High Commissioner Neeta Bhushan, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Trade Minister Todd McClay, and Consul General Madan Mohan Sethi, both nations reaffirmed their shared commitment to progress, innovation, and respect.
As India rises as a global economic leader and New Zealand continues to expand its role in the Pacific, this partnership will drive new opportunities in trade, education, and cultural understanding for future generations.
