An FTA with India would help trade ties reach their potential, says Jan Henderson, New Zealand?s high commissioner to India. Excerpts from an interview with Huma Siddiqui:
Why is FTA with India important?
The FTA will provide a platform for the economic relationship to reach its potential. It?s not just about increasing trade, but also facilitating better business and investment links between both countries. Along with the 27 CEOs accompanying the prime minister, the chief negotiator of the FTA too is coming.
How many companies from your country are present here?
So far, 350 companies are already exporting to India and 300 are exploring avenues to enter the Indian market.
Is getting business visa a problem?
We are a migrant country, and we encourage the migration of people. Almost 95% business visas are approved in six days. While the climate for investment is very welcoming, the key message is that we are a transparent economy and we provide limited tax incentives. In case of tourist visa, 92% are approved in 12 days.
What about military ties?
We don?t have a big defence industry. However, the key point is that we see the relationship as broad-based ? political dialogue and cooperation with India in all regional activities. In fact, the minister of defence was in New Delhi recently and we are keen on boosting the ties.