India has introduced tariff-rate quotas for apples, kiwifruit and selected other products imported from New Zealand under the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which comes into effect on October 20, 2026. The measures provide preferential customs duty rates for specified import volumes while regulating market access for sensitive agricultural products.
Under the agreement, New Zealand apples will receive reduced import duties within specified quotas, subject to minimum import prices and seasonal conditions. The apple quota is scheduled to increase progressively from 32,500 tonnes in the second year to 45,000 tonnes annually by the sixth year. The concessional rate for qualifying apples priced at or above US$1.25 per kg will be 25%.
Kiwifruit will also receive preferential treatment under a separate quota arrangement. The annual duty-free quota is scheduled to rise from 6,250 tonnes initially to 15,000 tonnes by the sixth year. Imports outside the quota will be subject to the applicable preferential tariff conditions.
The quota framework is intended to provide New Zealand exporters with improved access to India’s large consumer market while managing the impact of increased fruit imports on domestic producers. The agreement also provides concessions for selected products such as Manuka honey and albumins.
For Indian importers, the new arrangements could expand sourcing opportunities and improve access to New Zealand fruit. Exporters and importers will need to comply with the prescribed quota allocations, product-origin requirements, minimum import prices and applicable customs procedures.
The FTA is part of broader efforts by India and New Zealand to strengthen bilateral trade and investment ties. Its implementation is expected to create new opportunities for trade while balancing market access with domestic agricultural interests.