Japan is proposing a low-tariff import quota on some categories of European cheese in negotiations for a free trade deal with the European Union, a source close to the talks said Tuesday.

It wasn't clear whether the EU will agree to the proposal given its demand that Japan eliminate tariffs on all categories of cheese, including processed and natural.

Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida said he was going to Brussels on Wednesday for another round of talks with EU trade chief Cecilia Malmstrom, aiming to finalize the free trade deal before their leaders meet later in the week.