India-New Zealand FTA Agreement: Sampat Saraswat Bamanwali to Lead Indian Delegation to Auckland with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal

New Delhi, October 31, 2025 – The Government of India has announced that Sampat Saraswat Bamanwali, Founder and CEO of Eco Bharat, will lead the Indian delegation to the fourth round of India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations in Auckland, New Zealand, from November 3 to 9, 2025, alongside Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal.

According to an official communication from Taruna Doliya, Director, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the delegation will comprise representatives from prominent industry chambers and organisations, including the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), and Invest India.

The Department of Commerce has directed the High Commission of New Zealand in New Delhi to facilitate the delegates and ensure necessary arrangements are made to accommodate the entire team. The India-New Zealand FTA negotiations aim to enhance trade relations between the two countries, fostering economic cooperation and business partnerships.

The visit underscores India’s commitment to strengthening its trade ties with New Zealand and exploring new avenues for mutual economic growth. The delegation, led by Minister Piyush Goyal and Sampat Saraswat Bamanwali, is expected to yield positive outcomes during its one-week visit.

During the negotiations, the New Zealand government is likely to be represented by relevant ministers who will engage in discussions to facilitate and expedite the agreement, focusing on enhancing bilateral trade relations between India and New Zealand.