WASHINGTON -- The U.S. is not only pushing Japan for trade concessions on automobiles and agricultural products but also for changes to drug-pricing methods and currency rules under a new bilateral deal, despite Japan's refusal to negotiate a comprehensive free trade agreement.
Reducing the U.S. trade deficit on goods tops the list of objectives for the coming trade talks, according to a report submitted to Congress Friday by the U.S. Trade Representative's Office. It specifically called for updating trade restrictions on automobiles, pharmaceuticals and telecommunications equipment. The talks are expected to begin as soon as next month.
