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U.S., Japanese negotiators discuss trade issues

There are still some significant sticking points in U.S. and Japan trade issues that may become part of the broader Trans-Pacific Partnership.  It’s reported that progress has been made, but remaining contentious issues include expanded U.S. access to Japan’s rice market and expanded access for Japan to ship auto parts to the U.S.

The U.S. wants to increase rice exports to Japan by 215,000 metric tons.  Rice exports from the U.S. to Japan totaled 360,000 metric tons last year.  There are other agriculture trade issues as well, involving pork, wheat and other products sensitive to both U.S. and Japanese farmers.

Meanwhile, a Reuters story says Japan wants elimination of the 2.5 percent tariff on the auto parts it ships to the U.S.

U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman discussed the issues over the weekend with Japanese Economy Minister Akira Amari.  Both agreed that the meetings produced good discussions.