Keralam’s first export consignment under India-New Zealand FTA flagged off

Keralam’s first export consignment under the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) was flagged off from the Cochin Port here on Friday (October 16, 2026). The Office of the Joint Director General of Foreign Trade, Kochi, organised the ceremony to mark the dispatch of the consignment, comprising spices sourced from the State.

The shipment, exported by Kochi-based Synthite Industries Pvt. Ltd., is among the first consignments from the country in preparation for the implementation of the FTA, according to an official release.

The FTA, signed on April 27 and ratified by both countries on September 21, 2026, is scheduled to enter into force on October 20, 2026.

Addressing the gathering, T. Tiju, Commissioner of Customs, highlighted the State’s opportunities in the New Zealand market, especially for spices and food products. Citing that India’s current share in the New Zealand market is only around 1.5%, the officer underscored the potential to expand the country’s presence through effective utilisation of the FTA.

Hassan Usaid N.A., Deputy Director General of Foreign Trade, Rajeev M.C., Assistant Director, Federation of Indian Export Organisations, officials from the Bureau of Immigration, Customs and DGFT; and representatives of Synthite were among those present.