Trade Row and "Butter Chicken Tsunami" Slur Overshadow Modi’s Historic New Zealand Visit

The comment by New Zealand First minister Shane Jones, who leads the coalition government's resources portfolio, drew immediate criticism from trade experts and opposition MPs. Jones said the deal could unleash a 'butter chicken tsunami' of Indian migrants, a remark many called xenophobic and a distraction from the economic benefits of the agreement.

Adding to the controversy, evangelical preacher Brian Tamaki, founder of the Destiny Church, urged the government to retaliate against India over its treatment of Christians. Tamaki's call, made in a public statement, threatened to complicate the already delicate negotiations, which both sides had hoped to finalize during Modi's visit.

Modi's trip, the first by an Indian prime minister to New Zealand in over a decade, was intended to strengthen ties and sign a comprehensive free trade agreement. The deal, which has been in the works for several years, would reduce tariffs on a range of goods and services, potentially boosting bilateral trade by billions of dollars.

The backlash has put the coalition government on the defensive, with Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern distancing herself from Jones's remarks. Ardern emphasized the importance of the trade relationship with India, which is New Zealand's 11th largest trading partner, and reiterated her commitment to a deal that benefits both countries.

Despite the controversy, officials from both nations said negotiations would continue, with the next round of talks scheduled for later this year. Trade experts noted that the deal faces significant hurdles, including India's demands for greater access for its skilled workers and New Zealand's concerns about dairy exports, but expressed cautious optimism that a final agreement could still be reached.