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India-New Zealand FTA enters into force on 20 October 2026: what bulk bag importers should know
The India-New Zealand free trade agreement enters into force on 20 October 2026. If you import bags into New Zealand, this page covers what the two governments have published, and what you still need to confirm for your own product.
The dates
- Signed on 27 April 2026 in New Delhi.
- Passed by the New Zealand Parliament on 16 September 2026.
- Enters into force on 20 October 2026, as announced on 21 September 2026.
What the published material says about tariffs
India's Ministry of Commerce and Industry states that every tariff line covering India's exports to New Zealand becomes duty free from the date of entry into force. The government release also says New Zealand's peak tariffs of up to 10% are removed.
The ministry's factsheet lists these bag-related examples:
| Category | Packaging textiles | Leather bags and travel goods |
|---|---|---|
| Examples in the factsheet | Bulk bags (FIBC), sacks | Handbags, suitcases, wallets |
| Tariff change | 2.5% to 0% | 5% to 0% |
For textiles generally, the factsheet says tariff elimination applies across all tariff lines, with existing New Zealand duties averaging 4.19% and going up to 10%.
What the factsheet does not say
The factsheet does not name cotton, jute or canvas shopping bags or tote bags, and it gives no tariff code for them. Treat the table above as examples, not as a ruling on your product. Before you plan an order around a duty-free rate:
- Find the HS code for the exact bag you import. Material, construction and use all matter.
- Look that code up in the New Zealand tariff schedule and in the agreement's tariff commitments.
- Check the rules of origin, and what proof of origin customs will want on the shipment.
- Ask your customs broker to confirm the rate and the paperwork in writing.
Planning a bulk bag order
Timing matters. The tariff change applies from 20 October 2026, so ask your supplier and your broker which date counts for your shipment, for example the date of import into New Zealand. Plan sampling and artwork approval early, so the production run is not the step that slips.
Sources
- Press Information Bureau, Government of India, "India-New Zealand FTA to Enter into Force from 20 October 2026", 21 September 2026: pib.gov.in release
- Ministry of Commerce and Industry, "Factsheet for India - New Zealand Free Trade Agreement", 27 April 2026: commerce.gov.in factsheet (PDF)
This page is general information, not legal or customs advice. Confirm rates and rules with the official schedules and your customs broker.
Planning a bulk bag order? Request a bulk quote with your quantity and artwork, or browse cotton and canvas styles first.