This submission outlines the NZCTU's main areas of concern regarding the New Zealand - India Free Trade Agreement and its negotiation. These are:
- The labour standards and protections in the agreement are totally inadequate.
- The commitment to promoting US$20 billion foreign direct investment into the Indian economy by 15 years of entry into force is unrealistic and has potential downsides for New Zealand.
- The commitment to assist India in levelling-up its production of kiwifruit, apples, and honey risks undermining New Zealand exporters of these goods.
- The agreement was negotiated in total secrecy and the timeframe for the treaty examination is unacceptably short.
The NZCTU cannot support this agreement due to the lack of labour protections it contains, and recommends the treaty ratification process is extended to enable genuine public consultation.
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