Japan and Malaysia began their sixth round of negotiations for a free-trade agreement Thursday in Tokyo, aiming to narrow differences over key issues such as abolishing tariffs on automobiles and plywood.

During the three-day talks, the two sides are expected to discuss a wide range of trade-related issues, including trade in services and investment, Foreign Ministry officials said.

Deputy Foreign Minister for Economic Affairs Ichiro Fujisaki is representing the Japanese side.

Malaysian Foreign Ministry Secretary General Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak is heading the Kuala Lumpur delegation.

Malaysia wants Japan to scrap tariffs on plywood and other Malaysian-made commodities.

Tokyo has asked Malaysia to remove tariffs on automobiles and all types of industrial products.

The two countries aim to conclude the negotiations by the end of this year.