The New Zealand’s government has expressed strong support for Indian auto manufacturers and a more open trade relationship, as talks for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) restarted in Auckland this week.

During the latest round of FTA talks, New Zealand Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay spoke about the rising visibility of Indian vehicles in his country and their growing acceptance among local consumers. “So there are all Indian brands here. Not so long ago, my father bought a new car, and it was an Indian vehicle,” McClay said, underscoring the rapid shift in perceptions about Indian manufacturing quality.

“We are a fairly open economy. We don’t manufacture cars here. Manufacturers of vehicles from India are very welcome in New Zealand,” he added, laying out the government’s policy stance. “And when we land a trade deal, you will find there will be no obstacle to them sending cars here.”

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India, New Zealand start 4th round of FTA talks

This is the fourth round of trade talks between India and New Zealand, with India’s delegation visiting Auckland from November 3 to 7. On November 5, Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal met New Zealand’s Trade Minister Todd McClay to discuss ways to reduce trade barriers and strengthen economic cooperation.

Indian auto makers’ position in New Zealand

Major Indian automakers are becoming popular in New Zealand’s car market. Among them Mahindra has the strongest overall presence. New Zealand welcomes global auto brands, companies such as Tata Motors and MG (which sources some models from India) are expanding their reach through local dealers and distribution partners.

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Automakers such as Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai and Tata Motors generally don’t sell their brand new vehicles in the country but some of their models are very much popular in the pre-owned car market.