Autos and nontariff measures were on the agenda Monday at the start of the third round of trade negotiations in Washington between Japan and the United States, held in parallel with the 12-member Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade negotiations.
Among the participants at the three-day talks are Takeo Mori, Japanese ambassador for economic diplomacy, and acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative Wendy Cutler.
Agreements related to the automotive sector will be reflected in the TPP negotiations for the creation of a massive free trade area, while those regarding nontariff measures will be implemented by each country. They will all take effect when the TPP pact goes into force.
TPP countries, including the United States and Japan, are aiming to conclude a deal by the end of the year.
During the previous round of talks, held in Tokyo from Sept. 30 to Oct., the two sides discussed nontariff trade barriers related to Japan Post's international mail service as well as automobile safety standards.
The first round, also in Tokyo, was held Aug. 7-9.
The dialogue was launched in April after Japan and the United States completed their preparatory talks for Japan's participation in the TPP negotiations.