India–New Zealand Hold First Joint Working Group Meeting on Horticulture Cooperation

**Executive Summary** The India-New Zealand Joint Working Group (JWG) on horticultural cooperation held its first meeting, following the Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) signed on 12 March 2025. The meeting, held virtually on 19 FEB 2026, focused on advancing collaboration in the horticulture sector, especially kiwifruit and pip fruit (apple and pear) development. The meeting concluded with the finalization of timelines and an implementation roadmap for both Action Plans. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Meeting Overview:** * The first meeting of the JWG on horticultural cooperation between India and New Zealand took place. * The meeting was co-chaired by Shri Priya Ranjan and Mr. Steve Ainsworth. * Senior officials and technical experts from both countries participated to advance collaboration in horticulture. * **Focus Areas:** * Kiwifruit was identified as a priority crop for India. * Key focus areas under the Kiwifruit Action Plan were deliberated: * Establishment of Centres of Excellence (CoEs). * Improved orchard management and productivity enhancement. * Access to quality rootstock and planting material. * Strengthening post-harvest management and supply chains. * Discussions included procedures for importing kiwi rootstock from New Zealand. * Plans were discussed to organize training programs for Indian farmers and entrepreneurs in New Zealand. * **India-New Zealand Collaboration:** * Review of the current status and challenges in kiwifruit, apple, and pear production in India. * Focus on collaborative research, capacity building, and grower training. * Aim to strengthen supply chains, quality standards, and market positioning to boost farmer incomes and productivity. * **Outcomes:** * The meeting concluded with finalization of timelines and implementation roadmap for both Action Plans. * Commitment reaffirmed to strengthen horticultural ties. * Immediate next steps identified and a schedule proposed for follow-up meetings and reviews. **Impact Analysis** **Stakeholder: Indian Farmers and Entrepreneurs** * **Impact:** * Potential beneficiaries of improved horticultural practices and increased market access. * Opportunity to participate in training programs in New Zealand. * **Action Required:** * Engage with the initiatives under the Kiwifruit Action Plan, including potential CoEs and training programs. **Stakeholder: Horticulture Sector in India and New Zealand** * **Impact:** * Benefit from strengthened supply chains, improved quality standards, and increased trade. * Opportunity to participate in collaborative research and development. * **Action Required:** * Implement the agreed action plans and participate in follow-up meetings and reviews.

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