The 11 countries involved in the Trans-Pacific Partnership have agreed to hold the next round of free-trade talks in Kuala Lumpur from July 15 to 25, extending the meeting to include Japan as the 12th member.
The United States and the 10 other member nations wrapped up their 17th round of negotiations Friday in Lima.
Trade minister Toshimitsu Motegi indicated earlier in the day the Japan can join no earlier than the afternoon of July 23, as that is when U.S. congressional procedures regarding Japan's entry to the discussions will be met.