Japan and the United States have resumed working-level talks in Tokyo on a Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade pact. They are trying to narrow differences on agricultural products and autos.
TPP ministers agreed in May to step up country-to-country negotiations on key tariff issues. Chief negotiators are scheduled to meet in Canada in July, according to Japan's (NHK WORLD) website.
Japanese and US officials began talks on Monday focusing on tariffs affecting five agricultural products.
Japanese negotiators want to protect domestic farm industries. They are asking for the option to restore tariffs temporarily if imports surge.
US officials want to attach strict conditions on such measures. They also want Japan to relax import regulations on cars.
Some Japanese officials say the gap in views is still wide, and that the latest talks may not achieve a breakthrough.