Reflections on the India-New Zealand relationship.

The leaders of Indian freedom movement, under the stewardship of  Mahatma Gandhi, had dreamt of an independent and prosperous India. Much has been achieved in the 66 years of this nation but much more needs to be done.

India has long been viewed as a value investor’s dream: rapid growth, 1.2 billion people pining for a taste of globalisation, and underdeveloped industries ripe for turnarounds. The economic revolution continues to make India an attractive investment country.

As the 9th biggest world economy, many developed nations are wooing for market access into India. Trade between New Zealand and India is well over a billion dollars that too without a free trade agreement yet.

While 100% Foreign Direct Investment into telecommunication sector has been approved, there are other sectors where India needs to open to compete on an international level. The 9th round of Free Trade Agreement talks between both governments have just concluded last month. With new optimism, progress has been made on both sides.

New Zealand companies need to take a long term view and be ready to make the investment and think strategically on where, who and how they will penetrate the Indian market.

There are opportunities in the Indian infrastructure sector 50 new small airports are being built, 2 major ports in Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal being set up and these are just the tip of the iceberg.

The same applies for the Indian companies who are looking east with Christchurch rebuild being one of the biggest opportunities at hand.The next two years are important for New Zealand/India Relationship. With the introduction of Air India direct flight between from Delhi/Sydney/Melbourne starting 29 August, tourists are able to connect and enjoy the adventures of New Zealand.

Source : indianweekender.co.nz