The Japanese government plans to come to a final decision by mid-March on whether to join the talks for the Trans-Pacific Partnership free-trade agreement, or TPP.

The government says it needs time to win over opposing lawmakers in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, while the US administration makes the necessary preparations.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Tuesday that both the Liberal Democratic Party and coalition member New Komeito have agreed to let the government make the final decision. He added that therefore he wants to judge Japan's participation in the talks after considering about various situations.

But some obstacles remain. US government officials need to win the agreement of US automakers, which are opposed to Japan joining the talks.

Japanese officials also need to consult the nations that are already engaged in the talks.

Some members within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party oppose the TPP. They are urging the government to keep tariffs on farm products, including rice, beef, dairy goods and sugar. They also oppose letting private companies run hospitals.

February 27, 2013

Source: NHK

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