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Rethinking Trade: New Zealand's Path To An FTA With India

"India loves that sort of connection. Friendship before commitment," Changlani notes.

According to the head of one of New Zealand's largest independent accounting firms, New Zealand's support for India during its current global security crisis could be a key to securing a Free Trade Agreement.

Orb360 CEO Jay Changlani, emphasises a shift from traditional trade commodities like dairy, given India's self-sufficiency in milk production, towards exporting New Zealand's strengths in agro-technology and expertise in organic farming.

With Australia's successful FTA serving as a model, he suggested New Zealand focus on building relationships and aligning with India's current needs, such as its global security challenges. 

While the FTA's fruition within the current parliamentary term seems uncertain, Changlani remains hopeful, advocating for an approach that prioritises collaboration and innovation. 

Listen to the full chat between Jay Changlani and Dominic George above.

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